COLUMBIA CITY – A local church has leased the location that used to be the home of Verve Bistro & Wine Bar.

Light for Life New Church started painting the 1,775-square foot space last month and hosting worship services on July 7.

The property – adjacent to Rookie’s Sports Bar at 3820 S. Ferdinand St. – has sat vacant since last fall when many neighbors were outraged to learn that the popular restaurant’s lease had not been renewed.

Photo/Rainier Valley Post