Alex Cooper remembers riding his bicycle to the Oro African Methodist Episcopal church during the summer and racing the five kilometres back home. He smiles when he his father's regular routine running down the 3rd Line to touch the church before running back home each morning.
So when the municipality started looking for community support to restore the dilapidated building, Alex says he jumped on board without hesitation.
A beautiful cedar sign was unveiled at the site this morning, just two days before a massive celebration is expected to bring hundreds of community members and visitors to the site.
The $5,000 sign was donated by Cooper's company - Curbex Media, of Barrie, which will also look after its maintenance.
After more than a year of careful restoration, the church -- which was last actively used in 1941 -- will reopen at a special day-long celebration on Friday.
However, the future use of the site is unclear.
"We're not sure at this point," said Shean Binns, adding that possible uses include church services, weddings and community events. He also suggested a partnership to bring a satellite location for the Simcoe County Museum.
The formal re-opening ceremony, with representatives from government, Chippewas of Rama First Nation, military and community groups will feature cultural performances, art, crafts and food booths.
Everyone is welcome to attend the free celebration on Friday, and be part of a history in the making event.
The celebration will begin promptly at 10:50 a.m.
Attendees are asked to arrive and be seated by 10:45 a.m.
While the formal re-opening ceremonies are expected to wrap up by 1 p.m., a meet and greet social will continue until about 4 p.m., with cultural entertainment, and performances scheduled for the remainder of the afternoon.
It's a rain or shine outdoor event on the field adjacent to the church
There will be a partial road closure from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Line 3 North from 15/16 Sideroad to Old Barrie Road.
Due to site limitations, off-site parking with shuttle bus service has been planned.
Parking onsite is strictly reserved for those requiring special assistance.
All other drivers will park at the Oro-Medonte Fair Grounds, 84 15/16 Sideroad – located at the corner of Line 7 North and 15/16 Sideroad. Shuttle service will be running throughout the day from 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM. Be sure to arrive early to secure parking and seating.
For more information, viisit the township's Oro African Church Facebook page or oro-medonte.com.
