Church celebrates 150 Years

July 10th was a celebration full of fanfare with a Brass Quintet, a violin solo, a choir of many voices and a solo performance of "Ave Maria". The morning began with a solemn rendition of "Ashokan Farewell" on violin by Greenwich High School student Joe Konno; a song many remember as the theme for Ken Burns' PBS documentary "The Civil War." The sad but resolute song was a reminder of the congregation's origins in the 1860s. Gathering on the front lawn on King Street the congregation observed a prayer at the 150 year old cornerstone which was included in the second building which was constructed 50 years ago.

Pastor Jim O'Hanlon began by noting what a tragic week it was with shootings in Baton Rouge and St. Paul, Minnesota and the attack that killed five police officers in Dallas. "Such a horrible week in a way reminds us that when the congregation began worshiping in the 1860s it was at the conclusion of the bloodiest war in our nation's history and when they gathered here for this second building 100 years later it was in the midst of another bloody war. This spate of tragedies is a reminder that we are not puffed up with pride and celebrating ourselves today but rather we are remembering that we are still relying on God's care and called to be agents of healing for a hurting world."

The congregation began among German immigrants but today sees many nations and more varied immigrants represented. The congregation processed from the lawn into the sanctuary singing an African hymn accompanied by an African drum played by Alan Johnson, a member. The service began with Bible readings which were read in German, English and KiSwahili. A church which excluded women from leading worship up until 40 years ago now had as a special guest Elizabeth Eaton who is the first woman to be elected national Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. "Our church has changed much," said Pastor Jim O'Hanlon "as we have listened to the story of a messiah who breaks down walls that separate and oppress people."

At the service worshippers brought food for a program that helps local children who live with hunger and contributed to a fund for a church in Tanzania that was burned by anti-Christian extremists Generosity and community outreach are important to the congregation and is an important role that is emphasized in the scriptures heard and the prayers recited on Sunday mornings

The congregation gathered outside by the cornerstone on the pleasant July morning and then gathered at the new Sesquicenteniel Meditation Garden. The garden is nestled under tall oaks and beneath the cross of bright silver which is illuminated at night. Three benches honor families that provided leadership in recent years. Members who remembered when the second building was completed in 1966 gathered in the garden for a group photo.

The service was followed by a luncheon with more singing and music and fellowship.