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Church to celebrate 165 years
WIND RIDGE - Harmony Presbyterian Church of Wind Ridge will celebrate 165 years of ministry to the community at 10 a.m. Sunday. Following the service, a covered-dish dinner will be held in the social room of the church.
Martha McMillen of Nettle Hill, Holbrook, has been a member of the church since the fall of 1949.
"I became the secretary in 1984, and I think I've held the office ever since," she said.
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"I would say, so far as I know, a former pastor did a rather extensive history. To my knowledge, there's been an active congregation here throughout the 165 years."
Harmony Cumberland Presbyterian Church was organized Feb. 9, 1843, at what formerly was known as Guthrie School House, located between Bristoria and Ryerson Station. There were 30 charter members.
The first church building was erected in 1845, and it served until 1883, when the present building was constructed. This building has gone through several changes to the interior as well as to the exterior.
In 1906, the church united with the Presbyterian Church and the name Cumberland was dropped. Today, the church is part of Presbyterian Church USA and Washington Presbytery.
The congregation also has gone through several phases during the years. At one time, the church was part of an eight-church parish. More recently, Harmony was yoked with Unity Presbyterian of Graysville, a union which was dissolved a few years ago.
Today, the congregation is served by Linda Shaw of Washington, who also is a registered nurse.
McMillen said, on average, the church congregation today is made up of 25 to 30 individuals, but the church membership is larger.
Worship services are held each Sunday at 10 a.m. and followed by Sunday school classes. Currently a Bible study is being held at 7 p.m. each Wednesday.
McMillen said, along with the regular church service, the church is putting together a singing group for the 165th anniversary. She also is hoping to locate several former pastors to take part in the worship service and celebration.
