Linda Holst, staff writer

One man and 35,000 square feet makes for a job that is seven days a week.

Dale Grotsun is the facility coordinator of Crossroads Church in Albert Lea.

Prior to the construction of the church’s present location in 2004, church services had been held at Southwest Middle School and the previous Albert Lea High School. Supplies and equipment were transported to the school via a trailer, with set up and take down occurring every Sunday. This is where Grotsun’s calling with the church began.

As the church grew in structure and members, assistance was needed in maintaining the new building.

“It’s a lot of building to take care of,” said Grotsun.

Seventy-five members volunteer to maintain the church. Grotsun created a monthly calendar with volunteers assigned to a certain day and task.

“I try to fit people to what they want to do,” he said.

Grotsun’s goal is to keep the member’s volunteer time to no more than two hours.

“I try to make it fun for them and treat them well, because I do appreciate them a lot,” he said.

Even though Grotsun’s job is supported with volunteers, his days are busy with multiple responsibilities. Hired for 40 hours per week, he is usually at the church 50 to 55 hours.

“The way I feel about my job — and I love my job — is if I am going to ask you, the member, to come and volunteer two hours of your time after your 40 hours of work, I better be willing to do the same,” Grotsun said.

Special occasions such as weddings, benefits, parties and dinners always find Grotsun at hand.

“I’m here because I know where everything is at,” he said. “I know how to arrange the table and chairs to get the maximum use of the room.”

Being present to prepare these events has its advantage. With a smile on Grotsun’s face, he said it is easier to assist people, rather than be away and wonder where things are at upon return.

The worship service on Saturday evening means being at the church by 4 p.m.

“I don’t want the pastors to worry about how the church is going to look when they come in,” he said.

Given the number of hours Grotsun is at the church, he sometimes gives impromptu tours. His pride for his church is evident as he tells the story of the Crossroads Church. He is a friendly face to people coming in during weekdays.

Having joined Crossroads Church six months after its inception, Grotsun knows the members. If someone calls the church with a request for a pastor, Grotsun is a resource.

“The pastors know my skills, what I can and cannot do, so I will make visits to people in the hospital.”