Open Thread: Birthday and Church
Today was my birthday again, as it is every year. As it landed on a Sunday, I was able to get a ride up to my home town to spend some time with my mother and family. We also celebrated my brother and sister-in-law’s anniversary (a little late) and my grandnephew’s birthday ( a little early.) There were waffles and eggs and sausages, and lemon birthday cake for dessert.
I got suspenders and handkerchiefs, and a couple of cash equivalents. My great-nephew got a crochet pirate doll and a Batman Golden Book.
Then came my other reason for coming to my hometown, attending the last regular service at my childhood church. It started as a Presbyterian church in 1890 when a small community put up the original church building. (On the right in the photo above.) There weren’t quite enough Presbyterians in town to make a long-term go of it, so they merged with the equally small community of Methodists and the tiny Dutch Reformed community to become the Union Congregational Church. When the Congregational General Council joined the United Church of Christ in 1957, the church took on its current name.
In 1965, the building was remodeled, adding on the left-hand wing for more room to put Christian education, a pastor’s office, and more accessible entrances. This is the church I remember. I have many fond memories of Sunday School, hide and seek games, Vacation Bible School, and regular worship services. It was the church of my grandparents and parents, and my church whenever I was in town.
But my hometown is small, and has not had a good economy in many years. The young people moved away, and many of the church elders have gone to glory. (One had had her funeral only a few days ago.) So the handful of active members left have decided it’s time to close the book on the building, which as I understand it will now be under the care of an arts organization.
My mother also wanted to go to the service, as her advancing years have made it difficult to attend regularly, and we were joined by my brother and his wife. As might be expected, the service was a bit more crowded than usual. Four of the former pastors turned up unannounced to share their stories of their time at Sandstone. The Scripture readings included the passing of Elijah’s mantle to Elisha, so that was the topic of the sermon.
It was good to see a few familiar faces, aged though we all might be, and share greetings and goodbyes.
How was your weekend?
Great posting.