STORIES
From Three to Nine: How a Remote Church is Writing a New Chapter
What does it take to revitalize a church? In Rhame, North Dakota, it turns out the answer is simple: a small group of determined people who love their church and are willing to do the work.
Just two years ago, Lyle Presbyterian Church in Rhame had only three members on record—two of whom have since passed away. But today, this rural congregation is growing again. With nine members and a handful of faithful visitors, the people of Lyle Presbyterian are proving that small churches can not only survive, but thrive.
Under the leadership of Lay Preacher Terry Bagley and with the steady dedication of elder and treasurer Jason Waskiewicz, the congregation has been worshiping every Sunday at 9:00 AM (weather permitting, of course—it is North Dakota). Though they lack some of the amenities many churches take for granted (yes, they’re still working toward indoor plumbing), the congregation has made major strides in preserving their 110-year-old building.
Thanks to generous donations and lots of sweat equity, they’ve stabilized the foundation, replaced the roof, and installed a new heating system. Siding is being replaced, and future dreams include a renovated fellowship space, a painted sanctuary, and a real bathroom. Even the bricks from their old chimneys are being saved for a fire pit to bless the wider community.
What’s happening in Rhame is a reminder that vitality isn’t about size—it’s about spirit. With a critical mass of committed leaders, even the most remote and unlikely places can become hubs of faith, hospitality, and hope. As Jason put it, “The church I thought was dying has found new life.”
Photos by Jason Waskiewicz
