In order to accommodate a growing congregation, IMPACT Church in Parkesburg recently completed a renovation project, which included expanding the worship center and adding new seating and carpeting.

A major part of the project was the expansion of the stage or platform where the praise band is situated on Sundays during gatherings at 9 and 11 a.m.

"We added a portion in the front of the building. We extended the worship center out," explained Lisa Blank, office manager. "There was a smaller platform, and we pushed the building out, so the platform is larger. We have a worship team that uses the stage. So there is more space for them and more space for our piano."

A large screen was added to the stage to replace several televisions. "We had TVs, so now we have a screen that is used for song lyrics, message notes and information about upcoming events," Blank said. "Our 55-Alive group, our senior membership that meets once a month, used it for a movie. It has a really good picture."

"We also added a small room on the side that is multifunctional for small groups and prayer," Blank added.

A baptismal pool is located inside the platform, which replaces a portable pool previously used at the church. The pool remains covered when not in use. "We generally do baptisms on Sunday mornings," noted Blank.

New seating was also added as part of the project. "We (could seat) about 125 (people), and we can now have about 200," Blank pointed out. "Between the two services, we (attract) 200 people. It had been getting tighter feeling before the expansion."

Outside the church building, grading is being completed along with stormwater management projects.

Construction began in November of 2025, and the congregation was able to enjoy the new worship space for the first time on March 1.

"We had a temporary wall that we put up, so the worship center actually got smaller before it got bigger," noted pastor Mike Bailey.

IMPACT Church, formerly known as Church of the Open Bible, changed its name and welcomed Bailey as the lead pastor in September of 2020. "I didn't think we would be talking about (completing renovations) until year five, and in year five we've finished," he said. "(The project came out) better than I imagined."

He noted that on a recent Sunday, the church had an attendance of 235 - the highest number of attendees since 2020.

The project was completed in time for the church's Easter Sunday gatherings, which will take place on April 5 at 9 and 11 a.m.

IMPACT Church is located at 101 E. First Ave., Parkesburg. For more information and to view photos and videos of the renovation project, visit http://www.facebook.com/impactchurchparkesburg. More information is also available at http://www.impactpa.church. Those with questions may call 610-857-3887 or email office@impactpa.church.