After being closed for nearly seven years with the exception of an annual Christmas Eve service, Pine Swamp Church, located along Route 345 in Warwick Township, is now open for Sunday services and has a new pastor, David Yamarick.

Like others in the community, Yamarick frequently passed the historic church, built in 1894, and was curious about its history. "I saw the (church) from the road and I thought, 'How beautiful a setting,'" said Yamarick. "I would sit in my car and pray and wonder what kind of ministry could go on here because I knew it was closed. I searched for a contact and ... I got the phone number for the board president. I explained that I would love to serve here."

"(The church) closed because we did not have a pastor," explained board member Dr. Scott Horner. "A dwindling membership and no pastor are not a good recipe for a church. We got a phone call from David, and he was interested in learning more about the church."

Yamarick, who has served in adult ministry for 25 years, was previously a chaplain at Chester County Prison and led services at CityGate men's shelter in Coatesville. "We were looking for a church and a place to serve," Yamarick said of himself and his wife, Barbara. "Board members looked after (the church while it was closed) and were praying for someone to show up on the scene. I gave my resume and had a conversation, and my first sermon was on Nov. 28, 2021. After that, I (officially started) on Jan. 2."

The Sunday service at Pine Swamp Church is held at 10:30 a.m. It is a traditional service with hymns, Scripture readings and a message. "Right now, we are going through the Gospel of John and the series is titled 'Believe and Live,'" Yamarick noted. Refreshments, including coffee and baked goods, are offered after worship.

Those who visit the church may note its historic charm. It features its original curved pews and domed stained glass windows. Out back, visitors will see the original 16 horse stalls, since congregation members once traveled to the church by horse and buggy.

While doing research at the Chester County History Center in West Chester, Yamarick found a newspaper clipping about a horse that got away from its owner at the church and ran down Route 345 toward Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site. He also learned that the church was known for its large summer revival meetings. "The church has a rich history," he said.

According to a written history of the church, prepared by congregation member Albert Painter, the church was once lit by coal and oil lamps and heated with a wood and coal heater before electric lights and an oil heater were installed. In the document, Painter also noted that in 1983 the church left the Evangelical denomination and became an independent church, and it remains that way today.

Pine Swamp Church is located at 400 Pine Swamp Road, Elverson. For more information, contact Yamarick at pineswampchurch400@gmail.com. Individuals are also invited to join the Pine Swamp Church Facebook group.