Penney to the Well

J. C. Penney was an institution on Main Street until the early 2000's when the store was closed. As it sat across the street from our store, it was sad to see it sitting empty, a third of a block of Main Street sitting empty and lonely. We missed it a lot, shopping there as well as a partner in merchandising. After awhile, you get used to the void, but sometimes when you take a good look, it would be a reminder and you would be sad.
Now, it has a new life. The Christian Church (across the alley from it) bought the entire building and the members did a lot of work on it as they had funds. It opened this past fall and they continue to work and provide more programs. They began by having a contemporary service there every Sunday and had an evening event for all ages. Then they had friday night dances which harkens back to the last century. Then they began to prepare for Christmas and they did some special things. Now they are having free lunches each thursday for anyone who wants to eat. "Young or old, rich or poor, all are welcome" the sign reads and now I can see a TV in the front window that must measure a zillion inches. There are seats in front of it, but you can see it from the street. I know they will use it for study groups and classes as well as showing movies, but I am sure they will just have it on for special events. So, maybe I will get to see the inaugration after all from my own desk!!
They call the place "THE WELL" and good luck to them. I hope they have a special ministry that will reach all people. They have a vision of a coffee shop, ice cream parlor, hang out for old and young.