PHILLIPS – Members of the Phillips United Methodist Church face a difficult decision over the future of the church building when they meet Sunday.

District Superintendent the Rev. Beverly Stenmark will lead the discussion starting at 4 p.m. at the Community House.

The Phillips United Methodist Church entered into a shared ministry with the Phillips Congregational Church in 1969, Pat Matulaitis said. Both congregations were looking to save money by sharing a minister, but each denomination kept its own buildings. The combined congregation met for six months in one building and six months in the other.

The Phillips Shared Ministry continues to hold services at 10 a.m. Sundays at the Congregational Church at Main and Pleasant streets and will continue providing ministry for both denominations, she said.

But over the years, the membership has dwindled. One part-time minister leads the morning worship and serves members of both churches, but the shared ministry struggles to keep up with maintenance and insurance on each building let alone both, she said.

“Basically, we’re looking to divest of one building,” she said. “No one is happy about it and the shared ministry is not happy to change.”

The Congregational Church provides more accessibility, she said. A ramp leads to the front door of the Methodist Church but once inside there are stairs. The church bathroom is also located in the basement, she added.

Different options will be presented to the Methodist members, who will make the final decision about their church building. Letters were sent to them.

The Phillips Shared Ministry is open to visitors, Matulaitis added.