175^th Anniversary Celebration!

Our celebration is nearly a week-old memory but what a wonderful memory!  The morning started off with coffee and doughnuts in the fellowship hall. During the Sunday School hour there was a video presentation of many of the past saintly members, present members, and events throughout the life of the church and our community directed by John Burnette, member of the 175^th Anniversary Committee.  Also on display was memorabilia from the annals of the church.  Members brought old hymnals, photographs, documents, and other items of historic importance to the life of Main Street United Methodist Church.  The displays will remain up for much of the rest of October for viewing. 

Our morning worship commenced at eleven o’clock with our Living Waters District Superintendent, the Rev. James H. “Jay” Carey bringing the morning message on Perseverance.  Several hymns were offered during the service including “How Firm a Foundation” and “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee”.  The Choir, under the direction of Linda Rawlings and accompanied on the Church’s Steinway piano was Randy Hudson, presented a moving rendition of “In the Garden” by Charles Austin Miles.  George Morrison, Chairman of the 175^th Committee presented a framed letter and photo of Sharma D. Lewis, Resident Bishop, the Virginia Conference.  The letter and photo were sent by Bishop Lewis in recognition of our church’s anniversary milestone.  The letter and photo will be placed in a position of prominence in the church. 

At the conclusion of the service and the offering of the blessing, all in attendance were asked to gather on the front steps of the church to take a group picture to record their attendance for this special service.  After the official photo was taken folks then moved to the church grounds to partake of the delicious meal provided.  There was so much food that our wonderful cooks brought to accompany the delicious fried chicken additional tables had to be added to accommodate the entire fare!  Tents, tables and chairs dotted the grounds and great fellowship was enjoyed by all!

This was an exciting and encouraging day in the life of our church!  We enjoyed seeing members as well as welcoming new faces as we prepare for our next 175 years!  We are already making plans for our Bicentennial! It will be here before you know it!!!

On a personal note, as Chairman, I wish to thank my Anniversary Committee for their hard work and many volunteer hours making our celebration a huge success!  Also, I want to thank The Independent Messenger and EmporiaNews.com for their support in spreading the word of our history and celebration as well as our commitment to spreading the word and works of Christ in this community. 

  “AND ARE WE YET ALIVE?” – Charles Wesley

There is more to come – we are open – “Open Hearts, Open Minds and Open Doors - The People of the United Methodist Church!” Please come and visit soon – we’ve missed you!   

This is the fifth and final installment in recognition of the 175^th Anniversary Celebration of Main Street United Methodist Church, 500 South Main Street, Emporia. 

Grace and Peace!