NEWARK VALLEY, N.Y.—The congregation of First Baptist Church here will long remember October 24-28, 2007, as they celebrated the 150th anniversary of its founding. The theme for the weekend was “Remember the Wonders of Old,” taken from Psalm 77:11. The church bell served as the weekend’s symbol.
The special services began with a well-attended Wednesday morning prayer meeting, with prayer for revival among the people and for the special events. On Thursday evening, the annual Covenant Meeting was held. Pastor Spiegel read a Proclamation of Congratulations from New York State Senator, Thomas Libous. Eighty-nine members were able to answer “here” when the roll was called. A Covenant of Rededication was introduced and members were asked to consider signing it some time during the weekend. Seventy-four signed the Covenant indicating their commitment to live their lives by the principles of God’s Word as held by their forefathers. A copy of this Covenant of Recommitment will be included in the time capsule that the teens put together, which will be dug up on the 175th Anniversary in 2032, if the Lord tarries.
Other festivities included a traditional hymn sing and ice cream social on Friday evening. Saturday’s activities included a dedication of flag pole and memorial stone, with a color guard made up of Awana clubbers; a banquet with a Memory Lane featuring scores of photographs and other memorabilia; recognition of pastors who were impacted by the church; and a special service after the banquet which included a reunion choir and the showing of a 20-minute DVD. Sunday services rounded out the celebration, beginning with a praise and testimony time. New York GARBC state representative Craig Golden preached in the morning service, and former pastor, Roger Rosenau, preached in the evening service. God’s blessing on the entire weekend was evident, and many testified as to what a wonderful time they had.
