Built all the way back in 1827, The Federated Church of Shutesbury has long been in need of a major overhaul.

After 182-years of wear and tear, conditions became so bad the landmark had to close its doors.
All the worshipers could do is have faith a solution would come.

"We prayed, we had hoped that somewhere somehow, something would happen to turn things around for this church, " said Shutesbury resident Linda Hanscom.

Thanks to David Tetreault and members of the Second Baptist Church of South Hadley, something has happened, a major effort to fix up the centuries old community landmark.

" We have about forty volunteers here today, and more waiting to come, people are on a sign up list, we will have a whole other crew here next week", said Tetreault.

For a town of just over 18-hundred people, the church has been near and dear to the hearts of residents.

"My dad used to come here in the winter and start an old coal furnace, so that the building would be warm, and my mother served on every conceivable board in the church, and its just always been a part of our lives", said Linda Hanscoom.

Since its been closed down, it seems as though something in the small town has been missing.

Soon the centuries old church will once again function not only a congregation, but serve as an important part of the community.

"And that's what a local church is for, being the Shutesbury community church, it brings that right here into the heart of Shutesbury," said resident Greg Steve.

The volunteers still have a long way to go are asking for others to step up and join the cause.

They are looking for a painting contractor to lend his or her services, and welcome anyone willing to show up on Saturday's and join the team.