In 1980 the Community Chapel of Hesston in Penn Township started with only about a dozen families active with the church.

Over the years, additions were added to the property along Turkey Farm Rd. to accommodate its growing community.

But as more people fill the pews, church leaders realized an expansion needed to happen.

About 5 years ago the church took on a new property about three miles away along Orchard Rd.

A space Senior Pastor Scott Decker said is better suited for the many services his church offers.

“We’ve seen our number grow, only to see it decrease because of the lack of space and with having the additional capacity in the new sanctuary, I think those that come in will feel more comfortable,” Decker said.

With upwards of 330 church-goers, Pastor Decker was forced to split Sunday services into two.

But the new sanctuary will seat 550, bringing back a single service under one roof.

“But the most exciting fact is that we’re going to be able to enlarge the role that we can play in our community with additional ministries,” Decker said.

The new property will also come with a commercial kitchen and other additions to cater to newcomers.

This year marks Pastor Decker’s 10th anniversary with the church and he said he’s excited to embark on this new milestone with his growing congregation.

“It’s exciting that I have an opportunity to build on the foundation that’s been laid by the 3 pastors who served before me and to take that next step as we move into our new facility, as we reach out further, as we dig a little deeper, and to be able to lead the congregation in that next phase,” Decker said.

Construction for the new property is expected to wrap up by spring of 2018.