The Plymouth Church of the Brethren kicked off a series of events in celebration of the church’s 100 anniversary as a congregation in Plymouth. A colorful banner adorns the front of the church beneath the iconic cross window announcing the events to come.
The church began as a result of several individuals and families who attended the Union Church of the Brethren in West Township that wanted to worship closer to their homes in Plymouth. Thus, the thirty-nine followers began to meet in January of 1916. The first minister was Rev. Eli Heestand.
A church was built on the corner of Garro and Water Streets in May of 1918. That building is still in use as a church today by Iglesia De Dios Somos Adoradores.
In 1947 as WW II came to an end and the congregation was literally bursting at the seams, ground was purchased at the present location of North Michigan at Baker Street. Ground breaking took place on March 4, 1951 with Rev. Merlin Cassell as the minister.
A total of thirteen full-time pastors have served the congregation with several interim pastors during the last 100 years. A new pastor has recently been called to the church. Rev. Thomas Anders, an associate pastor at the Logansport Church of the Brethren will begin his ministry in July.
Along with the kick off, other special events include an Ice Cream Social on June 24th, on August 14th an outdoor worship will be held at Price Memorial Park followed by a corn roast and potluck dinner. The grand finale is a Homecoming Celebration on September 18th, beginning with Morning worship, a potluck dinner and several displays as well as “visitors” from the church’s past.
All interested parties are invited to attend any and all of the events. For additional information, contact the church office at 936-4205 or check out the website, www.plymouth cob.org.
