Sometimes Oregon seems like a young state, other times, like the celebration of the 160th anniversary of the Salem First Congregational United Church of Christ we are reminded of Oregon’s rich and long historical part.
From Statesman Journal, “The First Congregational United Church of Christ, 700 Marion St. NE, celebrated its 160th anniversary Sunday.The Rev. Ed Henderlite, a retired pastor who led the church for about 25 years, returned to give the sermon. He reminded the congregation of its 160-year history. “That’s half of my lifetime,” he said, joking, and churchgoers, who had packed the church’s pews, filled the sanctuary with laughter. Henderlite said the church welcomed black people in the fellowship from the beginning, when it was a socially difficult thing to do. “We realized we’re not just an isolated group, but we were part of all that is,” he said.Henderlite called for a spirit of gratitude as the church continues its path.”
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