The church had a special history-oriented anniversary worship service on Sunday, September 27, followed by a fellowship celebration with a potluck dinner and a time for reminiscing at the Fellowship Hall. Special guests included Dudley and Judy Williams, representatives from our “mother church” in Plainfield, Massachusetts.
The worship service featured hymns and readings that would have been used when the church formed 175 years ago, including an affirmation of the Articles of Faith and Covenant the first members wrote and to which they swore allegiance.
A “love feast” or communion featuring snickerdoodle cookies, made by Rosalie VanGilder, and water ended the service. The ritual is one that most Methodists from the same period used.
Old hymns sung included “All People That on Earth Do Dwell,” “Amazing Grace,” “Take Time to Be Holy,” and “Love Divine.”
The choir anthem “We Are Called to Be” was written by Rev. Sharon Alberson, who was a guest minister during the summer.
Also unveiled was a ribbon banner to commemorate deceased members and loved ones. The ribbon banner holds bells for each of the 20 original members of the Chatham Congregational Church. Bells will be added on each All Saints Day.
Historian Phyllis Siman and Joyce Siman set up a display of church artifacts that were exhibited at the Fellowship Hall. Both Chatham Historical Society museums were also open in observance of the anniversary celebration.
Special guests were Dudley and Judy Williams from our “mother church” in Plainfield, Massachusetts. They presented a framed painting of the original Plainfield church.
Former pastors, former members and friends were invited. Among the guests were Rev. John and Sandra McLachlan.
The Chatham Christian Women hosted the luncheon at the Fellowship Hall which included a special anniversary cake, which was cut by Phyllis Siman, who has been a member of the church longer than anyone else — 75 years.