Pianist Joanne Anderson’s played the hymn “I Love to Tell the Story” Sunday afternoon at Park Congregational United Church of Christ. The words to the hymn were fitting for, on this day, parishioners from near and far gathered at the country church to celebrate 125 years of serving Jesus Christ.
Formal festivities were held during the morning worship service which was followed by a dinner.
The afternoon was more informal as parishioners, families and friends of the church shared stories and reminisced about the past to the present.
Pastor Janet Davis remembered the founders of the church, calling out the names. Many relatives of founding members were in attendance on this day.
Then, after a wonderful rendition of the song “Restore My Soul” by Carolyn Johnson, Margaret Hecht and Diane Sholes, those in attendance started to share stories, anecdotes and milestones associated with the church.
Pastors Louise Dengler and Ray Avidano shared stories. Pastor Dengler spoke about being present 50 years earlier for the church’s 75th anniversary celebration. As she shared memories of the playground area, she noted that the swing set she brought from Connecticut is still being used.
For the complete story, subscribe to The Elgin Review.
