Maymont Sharon United Church held their 100th anniversary celebration July 17.
About 175 were in attendance for the special church service and Holy Communion, followed by a cold plate lunch and program at the Maymont School gym. Nine people from Borden United Church attended the event.
The first congregational meeting was held March 19, 1911. From 1911-25, the church was a Presbyterian congregation. From 1925 to present it has been Sharon United Church.
Former ministers on hand were Rev. Jack Carr, Rev. Nora Borgeson, Rev. Jo-ann Hills (Tebay), and Janet Clark, together with present ministers Leo Monselor and Rev. Deb Walker, appointed by Riverbend Presbytery to conduct baptisms and Holy Communion services. Rev. Hills, originally from Maymont and now serving in the Rosetown United Church Pastoral Church, was the guest speaker at the service. She sometimes still covers some of the communion services when home visiting family.
Other guests included the family of Rev. Frank Myers, son Ted of Toronto and daughter Donna of Burns Lake, BC. Rev. Myers served the church in Maymont for 37 years. Ted and Donna spoke of growing up in Maymont and of the many fond memories they have.
Marlene Swain returned to accompany the choir alongside Valerie Gray and Shauna Ferris.
Phyllis Johnston read a poem she wrote, Listening to the Church Pews Reminiscing. Hattie Wawryk, board chair, extended thanks to all who worked so diligently over the past two years towards this celebration and to everyone who took part in the service and program at the anniversary celebration. A plaque celebrating the 100 years of the church was unveiled by Sarah Beaudoin and Gertie Sherman. The plaque will hang in the church. The large decorated cake was cut by Anna Brehon.
Valerie Gray was recognized for her 50 years as organist and choir leader. Then everyone present who had ever sung in the choir over the years assembled on stage to sing Glory, Glory, Halleluiah, directed by Val and accompanied by Marlene Swain playing the piano.
Coffee and cake was enjoyed by all before travelling home.
