SPANISH FORT, Ala- Providence United Methodist Church in Spanish Fort came one step closer to its  expected January 2009 completion Thursday when a steeple was placed atop the church.

About 25 people witnessed this moment in the church's history.

“We're on our way,” the Rev. Rob Sweet said after the steeple was secured. “This is five years of dreaming and planning.

“The steeple kinda seals in an identity for the church.”

The 15,000-square-foot church features 14 classrooms for Sunday school and choir practice, a fellowship or gathering area, a 325-seat worship center, three church offices and kitchen that sit on 15 acres of land, Morrow said.

“This is a really exciting time,” church member Charles Barnes said.

The new church is on Alabama Highway 225 between Spanish Fort Middle and Spanish Fort High School.

The congregation started in 2002 at David's Catfish House  in Spanish Fort and had no name until Providence was suggested. Many church members were of United Methodist religion and sought affiliation to become a United Methodist church. The church was chartered as Providence United Methodist Church in 2003, building committee chair Harold Morrow said.

The church has since earned the name 'The Catfish Church' due to its roots, however, a lot of members were Methodist, and Providence United Methodist Church was decided as the new name and Sweet was appointed as the pastor.

The church meets at space rented off Stagecoach Road in Spanish Fort where 260 members regularly attend, Sweet said.

“It's really exciting,” Sweet said. “It gives us greater opportunities and better resources.

“It's exciting when you get to see it rather than just on paper.”

Construction on the $2.7 million dollar church began in March 2008 and is projected to be complete in January 2009.

“Thankfully there were no hurricanes this year to push us back,” Sweet said.

For more information on the church or services contact the church office at 626-2510.