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Pentecostal_75_Years

Feature Article October 24

Feature Article October 24, 2001

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Letting their light shine for 75 yearsby Jule Brison Pentecostal_75_Years On Friday night the Oso Community Hall was packed with members, friends, and well-wishers, as the Sharbot Lake Pentecostal Church kicked off a weekend of 75th anniversary celebrations with a gospel sing.

The churchs own band - the popular Country Church, opened the evening with their unique, lively blend of bluegrass and country gospel music. As they sang of Gods faithfulness, the audience tapped their toes, clapped, and sang along on every song. Two former members of the band Rev. Ron Clark, pastor of the church from 1991 to 1999, and Jim Heney returned to play and sing with their friends.

The Revelations, a quartet who sing Southern gospel music, added their harmonies to the evening. The audience was visibly moved by their songs, and they received a standing ovation at the end.

The celebrations continued on Saturday evening with a banquet. Mayor Bill MacDonald brought congratulations from Central Frontenac Township. MP Larry McCormick was unable to be there, but had attended a service at the church the previous Sunday.

On Sunday, the church overflowed with visitors during the worship services. Rev. Bill Morrow, General Superintendent of the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada, spoke in the morning, and PAOC District Superintendent Rick Hilsden preached in the evening. Of special joy was the dedication in the morning service of Augusta Rowsome, a little girl who had been seriously ill, and for whom the congregation had prayed.

The weekend celebrations were a joyful time of fellowship, renewing old friendships, reminiscing, remembering brothers and sisters who have gone on, and above all, thanking the Lord for blessings. Many have found SLPC..[to be] a place of security where the warmth of a friendly smile seemed to make the cares of life less pressing, or called them to be faithful to God and serve Him only, said present pastor Rob Morris.

The anniversary theme A lighthouse in the community reflects SLPCs commitment to service a commitment carried out through many programs such as: a 24-hour prayer chain; gospel sings at the beach on Sunday evenings; summer Vacation Bible School (now in its 10th year); a youth group; and a Wednesday night Boys and Girls BG Club.

The church was built in 1926, largely with donated materials and labour, on land donated by Jim and Carrie Fair for $1. Seventy-five years later, the congregation is considering building a new church on property they own on Highway # 7. Whether they are in the heart of Sharbot Lake, or on Hwy. 7, SLPC will continue to: ..Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:16.

With the participation of the Government of Canada