USA > Massachusetts > Hampden County > Brimfield > Brimfield Congregational Church Records - Vol VIII 1948-1954 > Part 8
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Many are the other details which have been taken care of by your Trustees. With the continued loyal. support of the community our fundamental ambition is to make over Brimfield Church-"a thing of beauty and a joy forever!" Respectfully submitted Charles a Ne hand, Charman Special meeting of the morning service to elect delegates to Brookfield asan meeting field Today in barron at 3:00 PM. Mr.& Mrs Harley N. fanden elected .
May 4
may +
Brookfield as'n voted (may 4) to accept the transfer of our association membership from Hampden association. Council waited formally on point letter of Holland & Brunfield Churches requesting that it arrange for Examination, Ordination I Installed of Me. Miller ( Ex of holland, Justin Bim. )
In observance of "Mother's Day" entire families attended in groups.
13 The Charter meeting of a new group"The Men's Club" was held in the vestry. Organized ona Church and Community basis for purpose of stimulating Fellowship and Service projects.
18 Special meeting after morning service to elect delegates to the 3 day State Conference to be held in Worcester. Mr. Miller and MrsHarley Landen elected.
Mr and Mrs. Harley N. Landen elected as delegates to represent the Church of Examination Council to be held in Holland May 25. .
25 Examination of Rufus Ward Miller for Ordination by Ecclesiastical Council of the Brookfield association held in Holland Congregational Church, 30 P.M. (Copy of minutes of council under date of June 15)
James Children's Day Service at time of Church Service. Baccalaureate at 80 P.M. June 5 Ordination and Installation Service for Mr. Killer followed by reception. (Copy of minutes of Council )
Pursuant to Letters Messina issued by The First Congregational Church of Brimfield and the Congregational Church of Holland and bearing date of may 7,1952, an ecclesiastical council, convened in the house of worship of the Holland Church at 3 P.M., on May 2 5, 1952, to examine Mr. Rufus J. Miller with reference to his fitness forthe gospel ministry, and if dermed advisable to ordain and install him as pastor of the said Churches. The letter missing was read by the scribes of Brookfield association and Mr. Martin Smith of Barre was Moderators with Mr. Indrew & Loux Jr. of New Braintree Scribe. The wall of the council was then made up, which, completed, is as follows I quorum being found present, the moderator - i Constituted the council with prayer.
The records of the church were presented by the Click, Mrs. Evelyn & Landen. These certified (a) to the orderly Call of the council; (b) to the invitation of the Church, date Dee, 1 0, 1951, to Mr. Miller to become their pastor and teacher, and (c) Mr. Miller's letter of acceptance of Call, dated Dee. 20, 1955. On mation VOTED: That these papers be deemed satisfactory. The candidate there produced the following credenti. (a) The certificate of his membership in Brandfield Church. ( b) his diploma from WILLIAM JEWELL College, dated May 21, 1445 and an certificate of this graduation from ANDOVER NEWTON Theological Seminary, May 24, 1949; (c) This certificate of licensure by Brookfield association, dated Thay 15, 1952
1
84
Upon motion of Rev. Horace Blackford, VOTED: That there papers be deemed satisfactory. The candidate then related to the council. (a) - his Christian experience and call to the ministry and (b) - his views on christian doctrine. The latter well set forth in a paper which he had prepared, if the close of which he was further examined - by the moderator and various mem the council.
here of
At the conclusion of this examination it was VOTED! That the examination be suspended, and that the council be by itself". The council being by itself, it was MOVED: That the examination be sustained. The wall wwas then called and vote taken by individual expression. At the conclusion of the calling of the roll, the moderator Declared the examination to the sustained, It was then
-
VOTED: That a committee be appointed to summon the candidate and arrange for the public service of ordination and Installation. Meters Wether Bradley M. Ward Hathaway, Rev. 2. Roy Packard, appoints das such committee.
The minutes of the council were then read and, after correction, approved. The committee, returning, reported the following order of service, which was by wate adopted:
- VC-2 ===== of Ordination & Suitallation of Th. Miller To the Christian Ministry In the Congregational Churches of Brimfield And Harland, Massachusetts
Sunday, June the Fifteenth Nineteen hundred and fifty two Eight o'clock in the Evening, Brianfixed Congregational Church
Order of Service The Organ Prelude Mrs. P. J. Brown Jesus Joy of Iran's Desiring" - Bach
1
85
The Opening Hymn, " God Our Help" no 1
The Invocation ald Lord's Payer Rev. Purley S. Grant Congregational Church, Three Rivers The Report From the Undeining Council Mr. Andrew of Laux Sciche Brookfield association scripture Lesson Rev. J. Roy Packard Congregational Church, No. Brookfield The Anthem "The Lord's Prayer" nalotte
The Chair
The Ordination Sermon
Rev. John M. Billinsky, D. Ed. Professor, Pastoral Psychology Undover Newton Theological School The Charge to the Candidates Rev. "George Fisher Congregational Church, Spencer The Change to the Congregation Rev. Lenge Dicker The Prayer of Ordination and Installation Rev. Harold Bentley Worcester Junior College The Declaration of the Office Conferred Rev. Einest Simon Congregational Church, South Egremont The Presentation of Robe und Bible Per Ernech Simon The Right Hand of Fellowship
Rev. J. Roy Packard The Closing Hymn
"The Church's"One Foundation" no. 391 The Benediction
Rev. Rufus W. Miller The Organ Postlude " Laise ye The Father" Gounod.
It was noted that at the conclusion of the ordination and installation service the moderator declare the council dissolved.
VITEN: That the scribe complete the minutes and deliver Copies of the same to the candidats the church, and to the registrar of the
86
195 4 suck field Issociation, the State Conference, ad the Congregational Library. VOTED: To take recess until June 15, 1952.
The council convened at Brimfield June 15,952 80 P.M. and conducted the public service. of ordination and installation in Accordance with the fore going program, and the moderation Heeled Rv. Rufus it. Thiller to la. July ordained is a minister the gospel, and installed as minister of these churches, after which the Council dissolved.
(Sig) Martin MM. Smith, Moderation) (Sig) Indrew & Lux, J. Leiche.
june 15, 1952.
June or The Luabony Lodge of Masons were quests St John's Breakfast served in vestry at 9:30 by L.B.S. June 23-27 Vacation Bible School held for children of school age. July 6,13,20 Rev. Harold Bentley supplied during Mr. Miller's vacation. Nov. 16 Abrief meeting was held following the morning service to consider the admission of new members. It was voted to accept the following into our membership upon their confessions of faith.
Charles Cole, Unn Newly Geraldine Boutwell, Charlotte Fay, Christine Jay Ernestine Day, Patty Whitten, Bette Benjamin. How To upon reaffirmation of faith Edith Wheaton, Henry Wheaton. by letter Wis. Ulice Clarke, Helewand Keith Hill, Bernice and Richard Ramsay.
Nav 23 The following (16) were received into Church membership Bette Benjamin, Geraldine Boutwell, Charles Cole, Ann Dewey, Charlotte Fay, Robert Seguin, Party Whitten. by confession of faith. By reafflimation of faith, Edith and Henry Wheaton. By letter, Edna Ackerman Vince Clarke, Helen and Faith Hill, Bernice and Richard Ramsay and Joyce Segrin.
Nov. 26 Thanksgiving Fue Service held in Holland Church offering given to "Home for Lible. Wanderers" To attended
87
195 v - 1953
Www. 19 Sunday School Christmas Program held in Sanctuary and Testy 24 United Service of Worship, Wales Baptist Church.
28 Brief meeting following morning service to conceder admission of members. It was noted that the following he received into membership : - Upan Confession of faith: - Herman and Roland Horton, Upon Reaffirmation of faith: Mis Electr mallow By letter : Mr and Mrs. George Gregory, David Gregory, Mr and Mrs. Eugeno Klinger, Eugene Is. and Richard Klinger, Priscilla and mobile Horton
1953 Jean 4 The following ( 7) were received into our membership. By letter: Movaud mr. Tengo Gregory, David Gregory; Eugene Jo, Richard and Mr and Mrs. Eugene Klingen.
Feb. 20 Would Day of Prayer beserved by afternoon service 3-5. 22 University of Life, Southbridge. To continue through hearche vr. March& Collection for flood victims of Europe -$ 470. 1
Marching It meeting following morning service it was noted that the following we received into Church membership. Mr and Mrs Henry Eddy. Nr. Nro Indraw Londek, Mert Mrs. Jan Herrington. Ar cot Abertell, Mar Muro Water Lawrence, Mer Mrs Leviers. Mr Minutoratio Norton. Mr& Mrs Simon Sherrio.
April 2 The following were received into membership at Maundy Thursday service. (22) By Lotte: Andrew and Katherine Landsk from Federated Ch. Warren mabel and Priscilla Horton " Methodist Ch. Week Warren
Horatio and Belle Norton " Hope Cosy. Ch. Springfield Gladys Lawrence. First Methodist Ch. Southbridge
Mildred Herrington . Muchodiet Ch. Hoosick Balls N.Y. Gladys (Laird) Sherrie First Meth. Hartford Cours. By Profession of Faith :(10) Ethel > Henry Eddy. Ernestine Jay, Ivan Herrington. Herman & Roland Horton, Frances Howlett, Mr& Mrs Jerry Lewis, Simon Sheis. VSy Raaffirmation of Faith(3) Water Lawrence, Electa Mallout Alabelle Smith. Frances Howlett was baptized.
apr 19 and 26 The Call for the Annual meeting to be held Fri May I was read at morning service and posted on bulletin board in Vestry. agenda: Roll Call. Reports-Budget. By law amendments 1) to effect change of title of asst Treas to Fin. Sec. 2 To provide for a Christian Ed. Com and a Benevolence Com ~ action on acquiring full time
ator
9
88
1903
service of pastor - any other business Report of Nominating Com. and elections of officers
May 1 The annual Meeting of the Church held in the Vestry was opened at 7:30 P.M. with devotions led by Mr. Miller.
The meeting was then turned over to Moderator Brown.
The minutes of the last annual meeting were read. by the Clerk and approved us read.
Roll Call 54 answered to the wall call. Responses were read for 3 absent members. 5 vectors were present. * See page 73 Treas. Rep. The Treasure's Report was read by Roger Bennett (in) absence of Everest Fanden, and filed with clerk
4. 94 Budget 1.94 The Budget was presented by the Chairman of Trustees Charles De hand and it was noted to approve and accept the Budget.
And. Rep. The auditor's report was read by Roger Bennett accepted, 8.94 and filed with clerk.
Pastor, The Pastor's Report was read by Mr. Miller, accepted and field Jo. 95, 96
Deacons The Deacons gave no report.
for the Denconesses Deaconesses averbal report was given by Gester Sherman, to the effect that the Deaconesses had taken care of serving the Communion and had served as Welcoming Committee.
Lay Rep. haymens Representative Richard Ramsey reported that the Skymen had not actually participated in any project to be reported. He did, however, outline the nature, purpose, and objectives of the Layman's Council Larger Fellowship" indicating that efforts would be made during the coming years to make the Laymen of our Church more conscious of the organization by presenting to them news of the variand activities in which they should participate That one becomes a member upon payment of the annual fee of 0, 00 and that the 1953 membership Good for Massachus. is sel at 10, não.
89
1953
Lerin Fellow . The Pilgrim Fellowship report was read by ilbert o Birchenough, Ro . 96 - 97 accepted, and fill.
Sunday Schad The Sunday School report was read by Assistant Superintendent
97-100 Evelyn Tulip, accepted, and filed. Music am. Chairman Gladys De hund read the report of the Music Committe 100
which was accepted and filed.
Adv. in Reading Chairman that Spooner reported verbally that our 4 the year of reading was completed with 10 qualifying readers but that many had read from 2 or 3 of the sections. Wles that the Town Library has been very cooperative by making many books available.
100
BL & Patty Whitten read the report for the new "By have Serve" group. This was accepted und filed.
Fidelis 0100-101 LBS p101 - 10%
Bertha Brawn read the Fidelis report which was accepted fie President Inne Dewey, read the report for the LBS. This was accepted und filed.
Men's Club The Meri's Club Report was read by Chairman Fred 26102 -103 Norby. accepted and filed.
Trustees
04/15
Chairman We Lived read report for trustees, Ferry Weston reported for the sub Committee on Ways and Means. Reports accepted and filed.
I'll Business none
WBusiness By law amendment: 1) The clerk read recommend ation of Church Cabinet -. amend. Because of the nature of the duties of the assistant Tuasures C'est. Treas as outlined in isticle I, Section 9, that the Title of Aust. Theas. Fine. See. be changed to Financial Secretary and that the By- laws he amended by substituting the new title in all places where assistant Treasurer nowe appears. (Art.VI Sects 1, 8,9)
action: A mation was made by Mr. Burchenough and seconded That title of assistant Treasures be changed to Financial Secretary and that the By- laws be amende by substituting the title Financial Secretary wherever assistant Treasurer nach appears . Motion carried.
195 3 90
ann. meet. cont. By-Laws 2) The Clerk read the recommendation of the Church Cabinet amendment that a "Christian "ducation Committee" and " Benevolence Committee" be established and that the By- laws be amended to include these committees under article VI.
action Nation made by Mr. Miller that the Church Cabinet he empowered to prepare and present at a duly called Church meeting properly stated amendments to the Church By-laws Ilative, to the inclusion of a Committee on Benevolence and a Committee on Christian Education. Mation was secunded and voted.
Re: Acquiring " Position of Cabinet on acquiring Full Time Service of Pastor" was Full Time Service read by Click :- of Pastor The Church Cabinet voted, april 21, after consultation with Res. Kenneth Beckwith, State Secretary, to submit to the Congregation the idea of acquiring the full time services of our pastor and offers these reasons to substantiate that position.
1- More adequate ministry to the residents of the community. 2 . The Sunday School has the right to expect more assistance which at this time the minister is unable to give. 3. To enable the minister to work more closely with the various organizations of the Church. at the rate of present gradeth the increased load in the two churches will soon be more than one man can handle. The Cabinet therefore recommends that the Church give this matter serious consideration with spin discussion of the question at this annual meeting.
It was also reported by the clerk that the Inter. Church Council, which was established in March , 95 % for the purpose of considering matters of importance to both Churches, met on april 23. The Holland members were told of the intention of the Brimfield Cabinet to have the question of the eventual necessity of securing the full time services of the pastor presented to the congregation at the annual meeting for discussion.
action:
I was moved by Mr. Ramsey that the Church Cabinet be directed to study the possibilities of securing the full -time services of the pastor, this to be done in conjunction with the Board of Trustees, and that the Cabinet the directed to make report to the Church before end of line,1953.
91
1953
Mation was seconded and voted.
Lay Delegates to Brookfield Council of Churches ( meetings to be held in May and October ) elected Lillian Brown, Verva Macumber, Mr up Mrs. Gregory
Ky Delegates to Annual Conference to be held at Hope Church in Springfield, May 18, 19, 20. Elected. luene Wright, Evelyn Landen
alternate delegates to either Brookfield or Annual Conference Aline Colle, Ethel Spooner.
Building Mation by Mr. Miller that we accept the goal suggested Can to this Church by the Massachusetts Congregational Conference fund i and Missionary Society of $96900 and that it he paid in annual payments over a period of four years instead of the suggested two years. Seconded by Liny Weston. after considerable discussion the mation was carried with but one opposing vati.
Clark's way. Letter of resignation from Juster Roe S. Clark was read by clerk Motion by Percy Moore, seconded by Roger Bennett and carried That we accept Mr. Clark's resignation with regret.
Letter of resignation from Deacon Frederick Bissell read well's raing . by Click. Mations by De hand seconded by spooner that Deacon Bissell's resignation be accepted as requested.
Com . Com. Report of Dominating Committee read by Chairman Makel Peine Deacon for 4 yrs Keith Hill Scacom for 1 yu Bissells wney, term -. albert & Birchenough Licaconeed for it ypro Ethel Spooner
moderator 1 4г.
Roger W. Bennett Evelyn B. Landen Clarence H Keith home light Richard to Drown
Financial Secretary auditor; Sunday school Supet 1 yr Trustec.
3 40 Juster (Clark's une. Herm) 2 yrs Laymeno Representative 1 yr Hairman Music Committee 1 ye.
Junge Gregory Euritt à. Landen Perry Westen Richard Ramsey Gladys Le Land
Respectfully submitted Makel Birce Che, Isene Wright, Chas. be Land.
ary Delegates for year
1
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1953 92
ann. Mey.
Usan inquiry from Moderator is to whether there were further nominations , the following recommendation of the Cabinet was read by the clock.
2.2. Wacous The Cabinet recommends to the annual meeting of the church Siewell, (In accordance with article VI, Section of By- laws) that Brown Frederick Bissell and Clarence B. Brown be elected. Senior Deacons for their outstanding service to the Church.
It will be a long time before there can be found. more worthy candidates for this Tonow. Mr. Bissell has served as Deacon for a term of 24 years- while Mr. Brown has served in that capacity for 32 years. (Bissell elected Dea 78,1928. Brown elected Jan. , 1921)
In addition to their duties as Descons, which have always been faithfully performed, both have. always been active in the affairs of the Church, their names appearing frequently in the records as members of committees, delegates, etc., etc. Mr. Bissell was Church auditor for 15 years (1901-15). Mr. Brown was Treasures of the Parish, before Church and Parish became united, and since the union he has been identified with the Trustees- und for many years has been our moderator. These Deacons have another record which few www shall event be able to attain. The Church brecords of the past two centuries have not Theen searched. to learn is there have. ever been others who - might have attained longer menaceshipping this church, but, these two beacons how the distinction if having been members of This Church for the greatest number of years of any How present 169 members. M. Biocell bunited with this burch, ty letters from the Congregational Church in Veford. Connecticut, on May 2, 1897-56 years ago tomorrow. Mr. Brown united , Profession of Faith, March1, 1896- more than 5) years ago. These two deacons read the list in length of membership with 56 and 5% y Lars of active service to this Church.
93
1953
The Cabinet recommends that Frederick Bissell and Clarence B Brown be elected Senior Deacons for their outstanding service to this Church.
Action
Mation was made, seconded, and vated that the recommendation of the Cabinet be accepted.
Action lection
Mation by Klinger, seconded by De hand and voted that report of Nominating obrmittee be accepted.
Mation by Mrs. De Lared, seconded by Mro. Whitten and voted that click Cast , Ballet to elect all nominees ( Nom. Com. and r Sr. Deacono.)
Ballot was cast and state of officers elected.
Action Mation made, seconded and noted that Click and Minister combine in writing & letters of appreciation to Roe Clark, Frederick Bissell and Clarence BBrown, for faithful service rendered over the years.
Action Mation made by Online Cole, seconded Charles We Land that a letter of appreciation be sent to the retiring Superintendent, Terra Macumber in appreciation of her service to the Sunday School. Mation carried.
Mations to adjourn ..
Reperimento screwed up tilgim Fellowship. Respectfully submitted Evelyns. Landing Deck.
*
see page 88 Church Membership april 1, 1952 - March 31, 1953
36 Domen
90 Total 126
Admissions
8
16
6
8
1
2
-47
٥٤٠/
152
Letter Deail
2
1
1
1
102
147
3/31/53 Total 45- 2 6
Letter. Prof. of Faith. Rear, of Faith
1
4
3
T69
115
Letter' Prof. of Faith Read Sof Faith
2
1
3
9
1
May 1,1953
54
94
Annual Reports 1952-53
Brimfield, Mass. May 1, 1953
To the First Congregational Church
Brimfield
Massachusetts
Gentlemen:
I respectfully submit my report
of the Church for the fiscal period ending
March 31, 1953.
Giretto Kardin
EVERETT D. LANDEN TREASURER
23.10
236
03.70
KDE 3/31/51
95
- Reports 4/1/52- 3/31/50 Conx
With the exception of three Sundays when he was on vacation the Minister was at the morning worship service to lead or take part in its conduct. Special services in which he participated were the High School Baccalaureate and appropriate services of evership lat Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's, Mausday Thursday, and Faster.
During the year he conducted q funerals, baptized is infants and 2 adults, officiated at 3 weddings and welcomed 26 new members, conducted a radio program monthly, and helped in the leadership of 5 University of Life programs in Southbridge. He made trips to attend conferences and meetings at the following places; 2 at Spencer, 2 at Springfield, 2 at Worcester, and 2 at Framingham.
It is the ministers pleasure to be exofficio member of all Boards and Organizations of the Church and as such he had the opportunity to become acquainted with the workings of our Church and the many line and responsible people of whom it is composed und on whom it depends.
He has been mood impressed at the reception of the following endeavors which have been started during the past year: The Men's Club The Wednesday Quening Study Group, The monthly Church Supper, and the Monthly Church Paper.
It has been a time of invaluable education through experience in the hands of people who have dealt most generously with him on many occassions. In June 5 upon invitation and according to the plans of this Church and the Holland Church, he was ordained in the Christian Ministry, at which time he also received a beautiful pulpit - take and carrying case. then gifts of food flowers, furniture, and money have continued to press an appreciation for your minister and his family For which he will always stand in debt and to which he can always look and be certain that the is laboring a mong real friends.
It is his opinion and it must be stated
astor
RECEIPTS AND EXPENSES
FISCAL YEAR APRIL 1, 1952 - MARCH 31, 1953
Balance, April 1, 1952
$4347.72
RECEIPTS :
Pledge Collections
Plate Collections
1109.04
Investment Income
1417.25
Investment Sale
358.34
Missionary & Benevolences
418.97
Parsonage Maint. - Contribution
10.00
Insurance Refunds on Canceled Policies 214.65
Sunday School:
Balance Paid over
75.59
Receipts
152.26
227.85
Miscellaneous
137.39
6938.73
$11286.45
EXPENSES :
Salaries:
Pastor
2100.00
Organist
240.00
Choir Director
240.00
Janitor
300.00
Pastor's Travel Allowance
300.00
Pulpit Supply
60.00
Light & Power
79.08
Fuel
549.83
Parsonage Maintenance
255.21
Church Maintenance
85.23
Music
22.34
Interest
247.85
Insurance
965.18
Pastor's & Clerk's Supplies & Expenses
320.76
Parsonage Improvements & Appliances
2130.71
Investment Purchases
1393.27
Sunday School
236.94
Missionary & Benevolences:
Against Period - 1/1/52-3/31/52 93.70
Against Fiscal Year end-
ing 3/31/53
418.97
512.67
Miscellaneous
488.86
$10527.93
Balance on hand, April 1, 1953
$758.52
* See Exhibit I
$3045.24
EXHIBIT I
BREAKDOWN OF MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS
RECEIPTS :
Pledge envelope purchases
3.65
Holland Church Contribution to
Rev. Miller, Gift, & Reception 35.00
Edward C. Brandt - Special Con-
tribution - Organ Fund
48.00
Overage from Rev. Miller Reception
7.40
Sale of "Upper Rooms"
5.00
Holland Church - For Supplies
15.34
Rev. Miller ?
12.00
Messrs. Ramsey & Hill - for Addressograph
11.00
$137.39
EXPENSES :
Pastor's Gown & Carrying Bag
91.00
Organ Tuning
48.00
Ordination Speaker
25.00
"Upper Room" Purchase
8.75
Town of Brimfield - Taxes
8.55
Palmer National Bank - Safe Deposit Box Rent
10.80
Painting Sign
10.00
Membership Tax
34.72
Assistant Treasurer's Supplies
.75
Communion Accessories
3.50
Trustees' Expenses - Phone Charges
13.27
Special Coin Containers
10.96
Pledge Envelopes & Record Book
30.36
Pastor's Annuity Payment
193.20
$488.86
5/1/53
SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS
FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF BRIMFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS
MAY 1, 1953
Stocks
No. of Shares
Market as of 4/29/53
Am. Tel. & Tel.
30
154-3/4
4642.50
Boston Edison - Common
10
483
485.00
General Electric - Common
30
702
2115.00
Loomis-Sayles Mutual Fund
37
36.90
1365.30
Pacific Gas & Elec. - Common
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