Bethel Church Eyes Ridgefield Expansion

A Bethel-based non-denominational church is looking to open a satellite campus at the Ridgefield Playhouse.

According to the Ridgefield Press, Walnut Hill Community Church wants to use the playhouse auditorium for Sunday morning worship, while also using some meeting rooms for Sunday school and other educational programs.

At a Planning and Zoning meeting last week, First Selectman Rudy Marconi welcomed the idea of bringing another church in to town. Marconi wondered, however, if the playhouse was the best spot for it, as the campus of the Old High School is used for many different sporting events throughout the year, which could cause traffic and parking problems. 

The church would have to be flexible in any potential agreement because of scheduled performances, as some acts require more time to set up the stage. Allison Stockel, the executive director of the playhouse, said she hopes the two sides can reach an agreement, according to the Press. 

Adam DePasquale, a Ridgefield native, is the church's pastor of regional development and has been involved in deciding where a satellite campus could go in Ridgefield, the Press reports. 

Walnut Hill opened its flagship location in Bethel in 1996. It has since expanded and opened satellite campuses in Waterbury, Seymour, Derby and Litchfield, according to the Press.

Ridgefield's selectmen will discuss the topic at their Wednesday meeting.