The historic Algona church and its humble pastor share stories, wrinkles and a steady mission.
But age and today’s challenges cannot stop the man and the vintage house of worship he serves from doing wonderful things on the corner of Warde and Milwaukee.
These days, Algona’s storied sanctuary is on the mend, and its 68-year-old minister stays young at heart in the service of the community.
“It is what I do,” said Bob Donihue, a humble and pragmatic man who bought the neglected church seven years ago to revive it. “I just do this to help others, to help people.
“Every day of the week we have something going on here to help people,” he added. “It’s just a little community church. It’s not fancy, but it’s a comfortable place where people come together.”
Steeped in history, the Algona-Pacific Church of God occupies a small corner lot down the street from City Hall. The middle-of-the road, fundamentalist Christian church supports a small congregation of 35 but serves the needs of many. The doors are open to several groups – from the Spanish fellowship to youth activities, recovery programs to Algona Police Explorers training – throughout the week. About 150 people pass through the church each week.
“The Lord has led us here, to open up and help the community,” said Donihue, whose church serves as a community center for the young and old, ministering to people from all walks of life. “We open it up for whatever needs. If you find a need, fulfill it – that’s the way I live. That’s the way we serve.
“It’s community ethics,” he added. “If you help somebody else, they will help you.”
The message is clear, the response, positive.
“It’s working. It’s definitely helping the community,” said Algona Mayor Dave Hill. “It’s immeasurable the difference Bob and his group have done with the church.”
The church is one of Algona’s oldest structures, its origins traced back more than 100 years.
The sanctuary was built two blocks away on Main Street in 1909 and later moved to its present-day location, joining the other half of the church that was built on its foundation in 1903. That merger, according to best estimates, occurred closer to 1937.
The church flourished as it changed hands through the years. Only recently, however, had it operated in disarray, as previous occupants sullied its reputation.
That’s when Donihue, a longtime pastor from Auburn, stepped in.
Donihue, supported by his wife, Anita, had retired from full-time pastor duty in the area but never completely left ministry work.
Looking to secure a permanent spot to fulfill his obligations, Donihue discovered the Algona church while walking along the Interurban Trail one day. He
decided to rent the church first, eventually purchasing it from the American Baptist Church.
Pastor Bob realized it needed a gentle touch and clear direction.
In time, support and donations came.
He opened the doors wide to the public. Groups, both cultural and civic, began to participate.
Hill said about 30 percent of Algona’s 2,700 is 18 years old or younger. The city, acknowledging that fact, has improved its park and recreational facilities while offering programs to keep them focused.
Youth Hang Nights, for instance, occupy Fridays, when kids can come to shoot pool and play other games in the safety of the church’s fellowship hall.
Donihue, a father of five and grandfather of seven, has a soft spot for children.
A kid himself, he enjoys riding his motorcycle and playing guitar. His collection of eight guitars includes some rare vintage models.
When he can, Donihue teaches music to those who listen.
“He’s awesome,” said teen Rebekah Helton. “He’s someone you can talk to. He’s very supportive, fun and always there to help you.”
By keeping kids occupied, he keeps them out of trouble.
“He’s a good-hearted person,” said Algona Police Sgt. Lee Gaskill. “And the fact he helps everybody is amazing.”
The city, including its police force, continues to support the church’s efforts.
Donihue appreciates the involvement and takes heart from it.
In Algona, more work needs to be done. Donihue will do his part.
“I’m just happy to be a part of it,” said Doninhue, whose 91-year-old father, Kenneth, is a former pastor. “This is not about me. It’s the community and the church. I’m just a part of the work. We all work together.
“I’m just here to help. I am here to serve the community. That’s what I’m all about.”
Mark Klaas can be
reached at 253-833-0218, ext. 5050, or mklaas@reporternewspapers.com
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Volunteers give church new look
The Behr Cares program showed its genuine colors last week by painting the Algona-Pacific Church of God.
A dozen volunteers prepped and painted the historic church, using about 40 gallons of primarily medium blue base paint along with some white trim.
“It was a lot of fun getting the group together and doing something nice for the community,” said Cesar Juarez, of the Behr Cares team that spent about 10 hours on the project.
The painting party coincides with the City of Algona’s ongoing street improvements project, which includes a $735,000 upgrade of Warde Street and Milwaukee Boulevard. About 90 percent of the project is being paid through state funds and other grants.
The city also is installing sidewalks for safety and conducting other municipal improvements as part of the recent revitalization effort.
Volunteer labor and donated supplies also have led to the repainting of fire hydrants and the covering of graffiti at spots throughout the 1.3-square-mile city.
