The Sanctuary: New church, same beliefs

SANDUSKY — Until a few years ago, the church at 211 E. Monroe St. in Sandusky had another identity.The Sanctuary, the current church, was previously known as First Baptist Church. It's believed to have been founded in 1848 and its current building constructed in the early 1900s.When the named changed, the church became nondenominational."We still have biblically-based theology," pastor Larrick Zirkle said.About two years ago, Zirkle was chosen to be the Sanctuary's minister. Before taking up this leadership role, he was a member of the Chapel on Galloway Road, where he still has connections.The Sanctuary at 211 E. Monroe St. in Sandusky on Monday, July 22, 2019.About 35-40 people attend the 10:30 a.m. worship on Sundays, taking place after Bible studies for adults and children at 9 a.m. During the week, Bible studies also occur 7 p.m. Wednesdays and a new study series will start 7 p.m. Sept. 9, continuing on Mondays.Members seek to live by The Sanctuary's purpose statement: "We want to know, love, live and give Christ."Right now, the Sanctuary serves elderly members who aren't able to attend worship services and supports Heartbeat, Project Noelle and Volunteers of America homeless shelter.But members want to do more, as the church seeks to form more community partnerships."We're trying to figure out how to be relevant in the city for everyone," Zirkle said. "We always want to stay in this mentality of reaching out. Our congregation is receptive and wants to serve our community."A look inside at The Sanctuary in Sandusky on Monday, July 22, 2019.One way The Sanctuary will expand its outreach efforts is by hosting a block party Aug. 24."The purpose would be for us to know who our neighbors are and learn how we can be better," Zirkle said. "We see this as a spark to be a positive presence in the community."The people are what make The Sanctuary special."I don't think people feel judged here," Zirkle said. "The love and acceptance I've experienced is what others tell me they've experienced, too. People are embracing of other people and our intention is to help people in their journey."That's why we want to be available — we want to help them make sense of the craziness of life."Pastor Larrick Zirkle poses for a photo at The Sanctuary in Sandusky on Monday, July 22, 2019.Get to know The SanctuaryAddress: 211 E. Monroe Street, SanduskyPhone: 419-626-1986Facebook: The Sanctuary SanduskyReach reporter Caitlin Nearhood at nearhood@sanduskyregister.com, follow her on Twitter @CaitlinNearhood and on Facebook.com/CaitliNearhood