Last week’s meandering journey to Marietta and Woodsfield began with a stop at Ohio’s smallest church.

The Healing Chapel house of worship is a tiny place but it has as much heart as any big church you’ll ever see.

At just 10×14′ this church has a steeple with a bell, a pulpit, and stained glass windows. It seats about eight people and has been the site of more than a few weddings.

It’s plain and there are no services, much less the inter mural activities and social gatherings you find at America’s big churches today.

Years ago, churches were left unlocked and were accessible to all who were seeking shelter from the storm – both literal and spiritual. Vandalism, theft and general lack of respect have forced most churches to lock their doors outside services. This church is a throwback to a simpler time as it remains unlocked for all visitors at any time.

I like to stop in for a moment when passing by if there’s time.

The church has suffered theft and damages but it remains accessible. It’s just across the road from the rest area on Route 50 near Coolville in Athens County. Look for it and stop by for a reminder of a simpler time when churches needed no locks and spiritual needs were more important than amenities.