How was Orchards Started?
Colonial Woods Missionary Church in Port Huron initiated a church plant in 1994. A small group of four families began a Bible Study in the Romeo area in 1994. In 1995 the first (non-public) service took place downtown Romeo in the Edward D. Jones building led by Pastor Stan Liechty. The first public service was held on September 10, 1995 at the Romeo community Center.
In August 1999, a 20,000 sq. ft. (home & riding stable) became available for sale in Bruce Township. This was considered as a possibility for a future site of Orchards Community Church. In December of 1999, the building and 45 acres was purchased. The building took 18 months to renovate, since there were minimal funds. The church all pitched in and helped to transform the building from a half-finished horse arena to a church. September 8th of 2001 was the open house in the new building. The building consisted of 6,000 sq foot office & meeting building and a 4,000 sq foot sanctuary with seating for over 200 people. The remainder of the barn and stables were renovated in 2013 to include additional classrooms, bathrooms and a new worship center.
Throughout the church’s history we have seen the faithfulness of God in His provision and transforming work in people’s lives.