WAVERLY - The Rev. Jonathon Hennings and his congregation planned to participate in a tradition today. On Easter Sunday, many Christians, who today celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, attend a sunrise service.

Going to church in the early morning hours also is a tradition at Peace United Church of Christ in Waverly. Members typically follow worship with a shared breakfast, Hennings said.

This year, though, the 135-member congregation will mark Easter at Grace Baptist Church in Waverly. Hennings and his flock were displaced when the Cedar River overwhelmed their church and parsonage last year.

Peace United Church of Christ, built in 1902, is a loss, Hennings said. The church is on First Street in Northwest Waverly.

Since the flood, Grace Baptist Church has welcomed the congregation with open arms, Hennings said, allowing members to use the building. Hennings, a native of Detroit, came to Iowa to attend Wartburg College. He and his wife previously attended Grace Baptist before taking on his own congregation.

"They've been very gracious to us," Hennings said.

As a gesture of gratitude, the Peace United congregation invited Grace Baptist to the annual Easter breakfast.

The past year presented challenges, but Hennings says the faith remains.

"We haven't changed the focus of why we exist as a church … to proclaim the message of Jesus Christ and to make a difference in the lives of the people around us," he said.

Despite a tough year, the church, which typically attracts about 60 people on an average Sunday, continues to add members. The congregation also plans to rebuild.

"We keep seeing God work in miraculous ways all the time," Hennings said.

In nearby Greene, members of the United Methodist Church also are getting their building in order. Floodwaters demolished the church basement, which was used for gatherings, said Darrell Needham, treasurer for the church council.

"Well, we've been working pretty hard for the last eight months," he said.

Church-goers returned to the building on North Water Street on the Sunday before Thanksgiving, Needham said. The church basement is booked for a reception the week after Easter, suggesting finishing touches are in sight.

"It's finally coming together, and we feel quite encouraged by it," Needham said.

Contact Karen Heinselman

at (319) 291-1581 or

karen.heinselman@wcfcourier.com.