When traveling Interstate 95 recently we decided to stop by and pay the smallest church in America a visit.
You may be asking " Is this a real church?"
I know I sure did when doing research on places to stop off of I95. The answer to this question is yes and no. From my research, I would say no because it does not have a pastor or active fellowship, however, I did read at Travelinspiredliving that services are still held once a month and some couples choose this cute church as their wedding venue. Although its small, the church is large enough to fit thirteen people comfortably, including the pastor. So maybe? Either way, it still makes a great place for visitors to stop and rest and spend some quiet time with God.
The first time I had ever seen anything like this was back in 1994 while in Germany. I remember my mom and I hiking up the mountains and seeing little chapels similar to this one everywhere. As a youngster, hiking a mountain wasn't the most exciting event on my calendar but seeing these tiny sanctuaries up and down the mountainside gave me the motivation to push through and walk the extra mile just to see what the next chapel had inside. Each mile marker had an exquisite place to rest along with a magnificent view.
When I first saw this little church, it brought me back to those lovely memories in Germany and I knew we just had to add this to our roadside bucket list.
Not only is this a nice place to break up a road trip, especially when you have little ones, it's a lovely place to embrace the beauty of the trees surrounding it. For a person who just absolutely loves the majesty of wildlife, this was a sight to see. Although the pictures don't do its justice, just believe me when I say It was awe-inspiring. Now I see why people get married here.
After viewing the church's history, we learned that the little church was built in 1949 by Agnes Harper and she deeded it to Jesus Christ. Why did she build it? I have no idea but I'm sure someone in the community would have that complex answer. For the people who live here, this church is more than just a landmark. It has not only brought travelers, it is a place of memories and a conversational piece for all who visit. Back in 2015, the church was burned to the ground by a vandal but with the wonderful donations from the community, it was rebuilt and rededicated in 2017. A small ceremony was held and at least thirty members of the community attended. A shepherds staff was also engraved with the scripture from John 3:17 and placed inside.
For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
- John 3:17 KJV
The smallest church, named Christ's Chapel, is located in Townsend, Georgia, five minutes off of Interstate 95. If you're ever in the area or just passing through, stop, and have a quiet moment with God in the smallest Church in America.
