First Presbyterian to Celebrate 150th Anniversary on Sunday

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Published on September 3 2014 4:20 pm
Last Updated on September 3 2014 4:20 pm
Written by Greg Sapp

Nineteen years before the City of Effingham was founded, Presbyterians were gathering in Effingham County. The first meetings in 1834 were held in a home south of present day Funkhouser. For many years the group continued to meet in homes in Ewington and Effingham. Now, 150 years later, First Presbyterian Church is inviting the community to enjoy an Anniversary Celebration including music, food, children’s activities and worship this Sunday, September 7th.

Effingham Presbyterians constructed their first church building at the corner of West Fayette and Maple Streets in 1870. After 40 years of use, a new brick building was erected on the same site in 1910. This church still stands there today as the home of Calvary Baptist Church.

In 1967, the present First Presbyterian Church building was dedicated on the corner of Temple and Maple streets. An education wing was added in 1994. In 2010, the church expanded outdoor activities with a Noah’s Ark Playground and an Outdoor Pavilion. Continuing the trend in 2011, many trees, plants and flowers donated by members became the foundation for the professionally landscaped “Inspiration Garden”. Today, Inspiration Garden includes a pedestrian bridge and walking path through a natural area located on the church grounds.

Local Presbyterians enjoy much more than attractive facilities. Members of all ages and professions value the interaction and fellowship with children and adults through many church activities and missions. Visitors are welcome and greeted with open arms along with a commonly used phrase ‘Please Come Join Our Community of Faith’.
 
This Sunday, September 7, the Effingham community is invited to attend a special 150th Anniversary Celebration at First Presbyterian Church. An Outdoor Worship ceremony with special music will be at 9:30 AM. A variety of Children’s Games and Activities along with a Gospel Sing start at 10:30. Everyone is invited to a Free Cookout with hamburgers, hot dogs and more from 11:00 AM to 12:30. Lively Bluegrass Music will play at 11:15 followed by a Face Orchestra Concert at 12:30. The public is welcome to join in all or any of the activities during the Celebration.