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The
magnificent cathedral-like building which was erected and dedicated
on September 15, 1889, was
indeed a testimonial of great zeal. However, no doubt, to test and
train His people for greater things, it pleased the Lord to reduce
this splendid edifice of worship to a gutted somldering ruin by a
disastrous fire on December 3, 1903. In deep humility and sobriety
the congregation set about with courage to rebuild the church, of
which only the damaged foundations and walls remained standing. In
April of 1905 the restored beautiful edifice was dedicated to the
glory and service of the Triune God.
This
fine temple of worship served the congregation well; however not
without wear and the usual
deterioration of time and the elements. In 1943 the congregation
decided
that the time had come for a complete renovation of its stately
sanctuary. Thus, it was determined that a thank offering should be
gathered to make possible these necessary improvements in connection
with the Fortieth Anniversary of the present restored building in
1945. A sizable fund was collected. However, the work had to be
postponed because of the scarcity of materials due to the Second
World War, which was in progress.
In 1947, the work of repair and renovation was begun on the
exterior, which was completely tuck-pointed and painted. In the
summer on 1948 the roof was repaired, and plans were made for the
execution of the entire renovation program. The actual work began in
August of this same year and continued to the end of January 1949.
The entire church was modernized and beautified. This included new
radiation and heating, new wiring, new lighting, the installation of
five stained glass windows in the chancel, redecoration of the
entire interior, a new chancel rail, and a new floor covering.
Though the original funds were not adequate for this ambitious
program the congregation nevertheless courageously and joyfully
dedicated itself to this worthy task.
History
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