Constructed in 1862 as a hops barn, this establishment was converted into a church in 1876. Then…read morere-sold in 1915 to a local farmer, the livestock barn existed on the site from 1915 to 1998 before it was purchased by members of the Pokagon United Methodist. Rev. George Bennard was visiting the area to take part in a series of revivals, and his famous hymn "The Old Rugged Cross" was first publicly performed in 1913. The hymn did not make Rev. Bernard rich. However, he sold the rights to the Rodeheaver Company of Winona Lake, Indiana, for $500, and the copyright was renewed years later for $5,000. The Old Rugged Cross Church is located on Vermont St. in Pokagon, about halfway between Dowagiac and Niles, where my partner's sister and I stopped off the beaten path before heading to Shipshewana.

My husband and I found out about this church by accident! We were simply searching for things to…read moredo in Niles, Michigan. We were determined to find something to do close to dark and finally found this on the Internet. The hymn, The Old Rugged Cross, was first performed in this church many years ago. The hymn is near and dear to our hearts because our grandparents used to enjoy singing this song and my husband has enjoyed playing it on the piano for our children. We decided to check it out! The outside of the church is stunning! We were not able to view the inside but if we ever make it back to this area of the country we will certainly stop to see it! You should do the same especially if you enjoy this old hymn!

A heart to reach the community. This church is filled with…read morecaring and steady people who are not content to sit around but reach out to those in and out of the church. Church programs include youth groups of all ages. The Pastors have been a part of this church for many years. Solid and love their people.

Notre Dame Catholic Church has been a blessing in my life and the life of my daughter. We have…read moregained the support and friendship of an entire parish community when we entered into the Catholic faith. Father Keith McClellan is an amazing priest and the most selfless and caring person. He is a wonderful leader for our Church and our school children love him and his adorable little dog Rocco. Notre Dame Catholic School has also provided my daughter with the highest quality education since she was enrolled in preschool ten years ago. I'm so glad I chose Notre Dame Catholic Church & School for my daughter's education as well as our place of worship.

My kids experienced racism at Norte Dame! A parent called all the black children that go to Norte…read moreDame Niggers that receive scholarships. The staff shut the door on my children at the drop off line and made them walk to the front of the school. Yesterday, the principal let several WHITE children in the school from the front door and told my family they had to go to the back of the drop off life. A teacher asked my child did I forget to finish doing her hair. Nothing has been done about this. And when I put up a fuss we got kicked out! They currently teach the children songs about picking cotton and had the song had nothing to do with "field working." The song originated from said "hang them "NIGGERS FROM A TREE." And today the princapl walked up to MY car and opened my door demanding that I speak with her!

This is a Wonderful faith community with a family orientation! As a professional nurse and case…read moremanager I have been recommending it to my families !

In the middle of nowhere but worth the drive from wherever you're coming from. Feels like walking…read moreinto a family reunion, everyone is so nice and loving and accepting of all walks of life.

The church started outdoor mass in 2020 and has continued the 9am Sunday outdoor mass in 2021. Most…read morepeople bring their own chairs, some with kids brought blankets too. Some people stay in their car for mass, but come up for communion. It was a beautiful day for worship. Music with the guitar was nice. The homily was informative and relevant talking about how we all need to take to reconnect, that even Jesus did this with his disciples. But also how plans don't always work out, even for Jesus, when trying to get away. But people come before plans, even 2000 years later. It was a nice way to spend a Sunday morning while visiting friends in St. Joe's.

Temporary seating was the only flaw this church had. Otherwise a great homily and the priest…read morerecognized that many people there that particular Sunday were visitors. Made us feel welcomed.

Love this church. Very friendly and welcoming church family is terrific and the service is lovelyread more

Visitors are always welcome. Come worship with us!…read more Worship Hours - The Sunday after Labor Day through the Sunday before Memorial Day 8:30 am and 11:00 am Sunday Communion Worship Service 9:40 am - 10:40 am Sunday School ages 2 through High School 9:40 am - 10:40 am Adult Class Summer Worship Hours - Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend 9:30 am Sunday Communion Worship Service Sunday, Labor Day Weekend , 9:30 am - Worship Service at Tiscornia Park, North Pier Today, Saron is a community of people with various backgrounds. We gather each week to worship and go out to joyfully share God's love for all creation.