 By Charlotte Graham
Clarion-Ledger
Staff Writer
While
replacing the church steeple that was heavily damaged by fire two months
ago, the pastor and members of Brandon Presbyterian Church made a
surprising discovery. The
church they thought was founded in 1870 was instead organized in 1851.
"That
meant the church has been a part of the community for 150 years,"
says the Rev. Tim Muse. "We then began making plans for a big
celebration."
Grant McIntyre, a member of the church for five years, was appointed
chairman of the seven- member anniversary committee. Although planning
the anniversary has been challenging, McIntyre says he has enjoyed every
minute of it.
"It's
almost like a 24-hour job," says McIntyre. "Any time you
recognize something that's been standing 150 years, you should do
everything you can to make it a memorable event."
A
big tent will be set up in the churchyard for the anniversary
celebration. Following the morning service, a dinner prepared by
George's Catering will be served on the grounds. Entertainment will be
provided, and the entire community is invited.
Muse
says an old newspaper clipping from an unknown publication best describe
the church's sentiments about the upcoming celebration.
It
reads: "When any state or community institution celebrates a
hundred years of service, it becomes a matter of more than local
interest. When such an institution is a church which, serving God and
Christ, has also served the community and state for a century, then
congratulations are due not just the members of the congregation, but
all the people of the community and of the county, also the states, for
all of them benefit from the influence and actions of such a
church."
The church's anniversary committee has invited local dignitaries, former
members and church leaders to attend the celebration Sunday at 10:30
a.m. For some, it will be a time to learn the church's history. For
others, it will be a time of reminiscence.
Beulah
Moore, 90, who joined the church in 1925, is among those with fond
memories of the church. A big smile comes to to her face when she thinks
about her early years at the church.
"When
I first came here the: church was quite small," she says. "We
didn't have a service every Sunday.
"Our
pastor was a circuit, preacher, and he also served a ' church in
Raymond," she explained.
Brandon
Presbyterian Church now has a membership of 350. Muse preaches every
Sunday.
"We
are carrying the light of the gospel into future generations," says
Muse. "We are going to face some particularly unique challenges
as we go into the future.
"The
events of Sept. 11 and the issues it raised have had an affect on the
totality of religion and the acceptance of religion. The church has an
opportunity to step in and make a difference."
Moore says the church has made a difference in the lives of so many
people across the years.
"I think the church is stronger now than its every been," she
says. "It seems like there is much more activity here and we have a
lot more young people.
"It's very encouraging to see where we once were and where we are
now."
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