Murphysboro, IL/September 17, 2012 - Two churches that split up over three decades ago were together again for the Murphysboro Apple Festival Parade. The First Christian Church and Berean Christian Church, both located in Murphysboro, Illinois used the annual Apple Festival as a way to bring the congregations closer.

During the Grand Parade members of both churches worked together to distribute Popsicles to several thousand people watching the event. The parade took place at 11:00 AM on Saturday September 15, 2012 and annually has approximately 40,000 people in attendance. 

Although it my not seem like a big deal it is big to the churches that split up some 30 years ago. First Christian Church Minister Rick Sutton said that this new cooperation is just the beginning. “Earlier this year our leaders met and decided to start working together on projects and get-togethers. The response was fantastic and from that effort we have decided to continue to work together with one vision for our community.”

Minister of Berean Christian Church, Troy Humphrey agrees with Minister Sutton, “Together our congregations can work more effectively. We have the same message, the same mission and the same vision, so it only makes sense that we come together and work for a common goal. I believe that you will
see more of this kind of cooperation in the future.”

Ultimately, this may just be a starting point for an even closer relationship or eventually a merger. The leaders of both congregations have been meeting together to see if unification might be in the future. The ministers agree that coming together maybe the ultimate outcome, but for now they are happy that their respective congregations are working hand in hand to spread God's love one Popsicle at a time.

For more information regarding First Christian Church or Berean Christian
Church contact their church offices.