Our History

Union Chapel has been around for over 80 years as an influence for Christ and Holiness in the Clay City Area. Union Chapel was first organized as a Missionary Band Church, with Rev. Garnet Jewell serving as pastor. Later, having decided to join the Nazarene movement, they were organized by District Superintendent Rev. Jesse Towns, on Monday, August 13, 1934. The name was changed to Connelly Chapel Church of the Nazarene, with a membership of 21. Rev. Jewell remained as pastor until December 1934.

Early in 1944, under the leadership of Rev. Fred Parsons, the membership agreed to purchase and renovate the Union School building. The transaction was complete in June 1944. The building was literally transformed by the work of the pastor and members into a beautiful sanctuary. The name was again changed to Union Chapel Church of the Nazarene. Dedication of the new building and name change was Sunday, November 26, 1944, with District Superintendent Rev. Gene Phillips speaking.

On Wednesday, March 8, 1950, came the stunning news that the building was burning out of control due to high winds and lack of water. Most of the furnishings were removed to safety, however, and later stored in Guy Moyer’s building in Clay City.

Almost immediately, plans for re-building were discussed. In the interim, services were at first held in the Clay City High School gymnasium and later in the Tabernacle, located on the Free Methodist Campground. The work of rebuilding began early in April 1950, under the leadership of Rev. Marion Hoard.

The first service, a missionary service, was held in the basement of the new building in August 1950. The completed building was dedicated on August 29, 1951, with General Superintendent Dr. Samuel Young speaking.

Even though many changes have been made in many areas, the message is the same, “Holiness unto the Lord.” Matthew 28:19 reads, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

We believe God has placed us here on the north side of Clay City for a purpose, and we look to continue the work that began in 1934 into the future with bright days ahead as we keep our eyes on the cross and an unquenchable desire to see souls saved and become disciples of Jesus