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Allenhurst Presbyterian turns 50
In the pulpit
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Today, members of the Allenhurst Presbyterian Church are celebrating their church’s 50th anniversary.
“It’s a time of renewal and we are looking forward to having people come who have been associated with the church. Our Pastor Emeritus, Rev. Fred Boozer, will be here,” said Charles Rogers, who serves as the clerk of the session. “Dr. Ken Mackenzie of Brunswick, who serves as the executive presbyter, will also be in attendance.”
According to parishioner Gloria Moody, the church’s first service was held July 4, 1943 with 37 people. “Church services were initially held under a brush arbor,” she said.
From 1943 until 1960, the church was called the Allenhurst Chapel. However, on Nov. 13, 1960, the Allenhurst Church was constituted as a separate church organization by the Commission of the Presbytery of Savannah.
“While services have been going on at the church for about 75 years, it has only been 50 years since the church has been chartered,” Rogers said.
The church was served by either the pastor of Flemington Presbyterian or First Presbyterian Church of Hinesville. In May 1999, Boozer became the first full-time pastor of the church and served until his retirement.
In November 2009, Dr. Douglas Holden of St. Simons Island was called to serve as the interim pastor. “Nov. 7 was my last Sunday. Serving as interim pastor was a good experience,” Holden said.
“We are starting the next 50 years with a new pastor. Rev. Ben Beasley of Decatur, who was just ordained, will begin as pastor next week. We are excited,” Rogers said.
As part of the church’s 50-year celebration, Dr. John Long of Brunswick will speak during today’s morning service.
“His family has close association with this area. We will also have a bagpiper on the grounds before and after service,” Rogers said. “A special plaque will be unveiled in memory of seven of our elders.”
Members and visitors will also enjoy a luncheon.
With a small band of faithful members, Allenhurst Presbyterian Church is known for good fellowship. Bible study is held on Wednesday nights and Sunday school is at 9:45 a.m. on Sundays followed by worship services at 11 a.m. Family night suppers are served at 7 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month.
The Allenhurst Presbyterian Church family invites the community to join them for their anniversary celebration today. The church is at 30 Church St. in Allenhurst. For information, call 369-8999.
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