Miscellaneous, Coventryville Church Rally, 1896

Coventryville's Church Rally

1896

The Red Men's hall was the scene of a very enjoyable gathering Wednesday, Dec. 16, over one hundred people having assembled at the "Church Rally," held in connection with the annual business meeting of the First Congregational church.

 

After the devotional service the roll was called to which a large proportion of the members of the church responded.  The first response was by Mrs. Matilda Blake Minor, who has been connected with the church the longest of any of the members, having united with it 64 years ago.  The next were Henry Benedict, Albert Stoddard, and Chas. Pearsall, who have been members over 50 years, and repeatedly filled prominent offices in church or Sunday school.  Most of the responses were scripture texts, but special mention should be made of the excellent original poem by Mrs. W.B. Benedict who for 50 years has been a helpful member of the church.  After the roll call the choir sang "When the Roll Call is Called up Yonder."  Ballots were cast for deacons, and D.N. Hunt was elected for 4 years and A.B. Minor for 2 years to fill the vacancy caused by removal of Deacon Eugene Smith to Afton, Mr. Winsor was also re-elected church clerk, and F.C. Pearsall Treas.

 

Words of greeting and more or less of a review of their connection with the church were read in poem or letter from the following former members or pastors:  Thomas Yale, Utica; Alanson Blake, Eau Claire, Wis.; Rev. and Mrs. Elijah Stoddard, Susquehanna; Rev. W.H. Santell, Athens, Pa.; Rev. W.H. Lockwood, Eau Claire Wis.; Rev. H.C. Cronin, Jersey City, N.J.; Rev. Augustine Caldwell, Eliot, Maine; Rev. J.F. Whitney, Eldred.

 

We are glad that at least one former pastor, Rev. G.D. Horton of Bainbridge, could be present and respond in person.  The present minister, Rev. R.D. Lansing who is laboring faithfully in the interests of the church and community, read an excellent pastoral letter, after which the invitation was given to repair to the dining room, where a tempting and bountiful repast was served.  As the shades of evening gathered, the company dispersed, feeling that the occasion has been one long to be remembered with pleasure.