ABERDEEN, NORTH CAROLINA

PAGE MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

,..;A HISTORY OF WORSHIP ,..;1889 -1995

"I am the vine,Yeare the branches." John 15:1

-CONTENTS-

DEDICATION - PAGE 2

HISTORY - PAGES 3-6

MINISTERS - PAGES 7-17

CHURCH ARCHITECTURE - PAGES 18-20

MEMORIALS, TESTIMONIES, ANECDOTES - PAGES 21-52

CHURCH STAFF - PAGES 53-54

OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF BABES - PAGES 55-58

SPECIAL SERVICES AND MISS MARY'S BENEDICTIONPAGES 59-60

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"'DEDICA TION-

Association with the dedicated members, ministers and staff of this church has been asource of strength and enrichment for our family. We are honored that gifts in memoryof Leila become a part of the labor and love that went into the planning and formulationof this - the history of the church, by those whose talents and industry produced it.

Gifts in the name of Christ live on,long after those who gave them rest in peace.

-LEILA PAGE'S PHILOSOPHY OF LIFE-

And, Oh Lord God,let us forget not to be kind

Keep us, Oh God, From pettiness;Let us be large in thought, in word, in deed

Let us be done with fault-findinganti leave off self-seeking.

May we put away all pretenseand meet each other face to face, without self-pity

and without prejudice.

May we never be hasty in judgmentand always generous.

Let us take time for all things;Make us to grow calm, serene, gentle.

Teach us to put into action our better impulses,straight forward and unafraid

Grant that we may realize it is the little thingsthat create differences,

that in the big things of life we are as one.

And may we strive to touchanti to know

the great common, human heart of us all.

COLLECT OF CLUB WOMEN OF AMERICAWALTER HINES PAGE ROOK CLUR

ARERDEEN,NC

LEILA KIMBRELL PAGE1925-1995

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HISTORY-THE SEEDS WERE PLANTED-

"It is right and proper that buildings erectedfor such servicein the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ

should beformally and devoutly set apartfor their special use".

The Native Americans were here first ... perhaps from the Siouan tribe. They shared awilderness horne of pines and sand with the deer, wild turkey and bear, leaving artifactsas proof of their existence. In the early 18th century, hunting parties and trappers movedthrough the area with only their abandoned campsites left behind.

Gaelic speaking Highlanders disembarked at the port of Wilmington in the mid -seventeen hundreds. The Cape Fear River, tea colored from the tannic acid releasedfrom the cypress swamps, provided a water route northwest and the Blues were amongthe clans that chose this passage to the new world.

The Scottish community of Blue's Crossing was settled in the mid-nineteenth century.Welcomed by a mild climate, abundant game, available inexpensive land, the Blue'sconquered the pine barrens and the days of turpentine and lumber began ... and then thePage family arrived ...

ALLISON(1824-1899)

AND

CATHERINE(1831-1897)

PAGE

In January of 1880, Allison Francis Page and his second son, Robert Newton Page (21)came to the Sandhi lis via the Raleigh-Augusta Air Line Railroad to inspect the area'sforests. The senior Page, founder of the town of Cary, had exhausted the timber supply

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in his native Wake County and was interested in industrializing southern Moore Countyand re-establishing his lumber business.

One month later, after equipment and machinery had been acquired, a lumber mill was inoperation. For the next year, Robert, living in a boarding house, supervised the business.

In 1881, the cultured Page family, bankrupt by the Civil War, moved from Cary, NC.Page's wife, Catherine Frances Raboteau Page, their three remaining sons, HenryAllison (19), Junius Raboteau (15), Frank (6); and daughters, Emma Catherine (17),Mary Esther (12) and Frances Joyner (9) moved to Blue's Crossing. Walter Hines Page,the oldest son, had obtained a position with the St. Joseph Gazette in Missouri. A newhome was built facing the railroad about a mile and a half from the center of "town".

-FIRST IMPRESSION-"On the 22nd day of June, 1881,

a day never to be forgotten,early in the morning, our household goods

and the family were loaded on afreight trainwhich carried a passenger coach

and we started on our long 70 mile journey,into an unknown and undesired land ...

the 'dark corner of the state ...and had only one use ...

that being to help to hold the world together.

Page also built homes for the mill workers as well as a commissary for the provision offood. Land was cheap (with lumber - $3.50 an acre) and eventually the family ownedmore than 1500 acres.

MaryEsther Page(1869-1961)

It was the longest and the hottestand, up to that time,

the most miserable day I ever spent.I cried and perspired

and hated the very name ofMoore County for all day long.

At last, in mid-afternoon,the train stopped and unloaded us

at a lumber landing.There was nothing in sightbut lumber, sand and trees,

more sand and trees.We soon saw a house that was built for us

and we took possessionand began to make it home. "

Mary E:.Page

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MAIN STREET - ABERDEEN - Early 1920's

Francis (Frank) and Catherine (Kate), both devout Methodists of "the most authenticWesleyan brand", were unique in appearance. Frank, who was tall for that day (6'5"),was bearded and looked somewhat "fierce". Kate being more demure was soft-spokenand known for having a sense of humor. The better educated, Kate loved literature andpassed this appreciation on to her children. Frank's philosophy of life was based on hisbelief in God, plain living, high thinking and hard work.

The Page children, with the legacy given them by their parents, took brilliance, businesssense, and faith and with individual uniqueness contributed to society. Walter was co-owner of Doubleday, Page and Company and served as US Ambassador to the Court ofSt. James from 19]3-]9]8 under President Woodrow Wilson. Robert was a NCCongressman (Seventh District), banker and first Mayor of Aberdeen (1902-1913), whileHenry served in the State Legislature of NC and was Food Administrator during WorldWar I. Junius was a prominent businessman and banker and Frank, Chairman of the

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State Highway Commission (praised for getting NC "out of the mud" in the 1920's whenthe state became the "good roads state) under Governors McLean and Gardner.Daughters, Emma, Mary and Frances were highly respected members of Aberdeen.Emma taught Bible for many years at Greensboro College and gave generous financialsupport to the college, in accord with her strong Methodist beliefs. Mary was theTreasurer of the Railroad and was also an officer of the church, perhaps the first lady toso serve. She was held in high esteem by both the black and white community. Frances,along with Junius, were the most loved members of the family. She had a large family ofchildren, was a Sunday School teacher for many, many years and at different times usedher home to afford housing for teachers of the Aberdeen Public School. The activities ofwomen of their generation was rather limited, especially if they had a father and brothersas these three sisters did.

From under the roof of Allison Francis Page came one of North Carolina's illustriousfamilies. They subdued the land, yet he and his family did not fail to build and sustainaltars unto God.

In paying tribute to his ancestors at Aberdeen's Centennial Celebration (1993), Robert N.Page, III ( Great-Grandson of Robert N. Page) stated" .. .it is only by looking at our pastthat we glimpse, perhaps dimly, our future ... So, if we can look back at our history andour heritage, we can see that our past people - hardy, steadfast, loyal, faithful, kind,industrious and God Fearing - have each given us a tremendous foundation upon whichto build. It might be said that pine trees, sandy soil, climate and railroads propelled usinto the future. But I would say they are the secondary factors ... The Primary factor hasbeen our forefathers and mothers working through our churches and communities. Thepeople of Aberdeen, in fact, all people, should follow our motto: 'In God We Trust.' "

"Bless the home, where an altar has been erected to Thee,the incense from which has arisen to bless and beautify life."

Rev. F. S. LoveMemorial Service- August 18, 1918Corporal Allison Martin Page

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MINISTERSPAGE MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

1883-1995

The spirit of the Lord is upon Me,Because He has anointed Me

To preach the gospel to the poor:He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted.

To proclaim liberty to the captivesAnd recovery of sight to the blind,

To set at liberty those who are oppressed. Luke 4:18

FRANK M. SHAMBURGER(Summer through December 1883)

In the class of 1883, at Trinity College, Mr. Frank Shamburger was licensed to preachthe gospel and sent to the Sandhills of North Carolina. The area was heavily populatedby Scotch Presbyterians and the young minister's objective was to determine if there wasa "need" for Methodism.

In the late nineteenth century, Manly, the largest town between Sanford and Hamlet, wasthe shipping point for "tar, pitch and turpentine" for the back country. Mr. Shamburgermade his headquarters there.

He spent his time until conference met in December going up and down the railroad,preaching everywhere he could find a room and an audience, having found that the areawas "a fertile field for a missionary" and that indeed there was a "need" for Methodism.There was no town (in present day Aberdeen), so he preached in a small log schoollocated near Old Bethesda Church. This school was built by a private family to educateits children ... and the "seeds were planted" ....

R.L.FURGUSONA Supply Minister

M.A. SMITHDecember 1883

When conference met, Mr. M. A Smith was sent to carry on the work begun by Mr.Shamburger. Not long after, a frame church was built in 1889 about where the presentchurch now stands, because by this time enough Methodists were living here to form achurch. Those who had been members of the Manly Mission transferred theirmemberships back home.

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There were many happy days and memorable meetings in this little frame church, with itscoal stove and kerosene lamps and the foot pedaled organ.

H.W. JACKSON1887

L. M. CHAFIN1890

In 1890, a parsonage was built and Rev. and Mrs. Chaffin and family were the firstoccupants.

The first record of a Quarterly Meeting being held in Aberdeen was dated January 10,1891 and some of the people were deeply interested in church matters, while others werevery indifferent concerning such things.

MINISTERS FROM 1891-1952

(Following Rev. Chafin were The Reverends W.J. Croson, J. H. Page, J.E.Thompson, Kilgore, D. N. Caviness, C. L. Reed (present day church was begun), w.H. Brown (pastor when the church was finished and preached the first sermon in thenew church), F. S. Love ( the church was made a station ... a high mark in thechurch life... he then became President of Louisburg College), G. M Daniel, J. M.Hall, C. B. Culbreth, E. H. McWhorter, W. V. McRae, W. W. Peele (who laterbecame Head Master at Trinity Park School and then a Bishop), G. B. Starling, W.C. Ball (became a District Superintendent), L.M. Hall, S. J. Starnes (became anEditor of the NC Christian Advocate), S. A. Maxwell (If As your pastor, I am here tobe a brother in your problems, a comrade in your undertaking and a leader with youof Christ whom we all strive to please and serve."), Daniel Lane, J.O. Long and T.J. Whitehead)

In 1913, when Mr. Reed was Pastor, this present church was begun, with Miss MaryPage laying the first brick. Completed and dedicated on July 5, 1914, with Bishop JohnC. Kilgo preaching the sermon, the church was given as a memorial by their children forAllison and Catherine Page.

When the old church was tom down, the best material was used in building the secondparsonage and Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Brown were its first occupants. Mr. Brown waspastor when the church was finished and preached the first sermon in the new church.

The first educational building was erected in the early 1930's with a fellowship hall,kitchen and a full basement. This unit served us well as well as the community for RedCross work during World War II. Later an additional 3,000 square feet was added duringthe time when Reverend Whitehead was our pastor to give us five more classrooms.

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Over the years, Page Memorial United Church has always been a vigorous, moving andactive church and while sitting in the heart of our down-town area, has been a place ofpride and service for the entire community. On the twenty-fifth anniversary of itsdedication in 1939, there was a week's celebration. Former pastors returned, each topreach for one night, and Bishop William W. Peele concluded this event by preaching onSunday morning.

Roseland Community had a number of members in our church and in 1939 theywithdrew and formed the Roseland church. As it was organized by our former membersand friends, we have had a special interest in this thriving group of faithful people. Thischurch has grown and today has an active membership. Quoting from REV. S. J.STARNES: "The members of this church who lived in the Roseland Community, with-drew their membership in 1939 and the Roseland church was organized (undertaking a$3500 building). It was only a small group (forty-three members), but they have workedso unceasingly they have built and furnished a nice little church. Their faithfulness anddevotion and sacrifice calls forth our admiration and we shall always have a deep interestin the Roseland church, for it is the child of our own. . . and the church bids to makegood progress. "

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W.A. TEW1952

The Reverend Mr. Tew and his family were the last to occupy the old parsonage acrossthe street from the church, for the full pastorate term. During his pastorate, the originalpipe organ was replaced by a new console at a total cost of $6,000. Authority was givento mortgage the parsonage, if necessary, to pay for the new organ. However, a committeeheaded by Mrs. Forest Lockey, Sr., soon raised sufficient funds and a new Estey organwas purchased and installed. Due to the size of the console and other factors, locationwas changed from the choir loft to near the chancel of the sanctuary.

CARL JOHNSON1956

During the three years that Rev. Johnson served as pastor of Page Memorial andRoseland, a drive was begun to raise funds for a new parsonage. Through the generosityof Dr. and Mrs. Robateau T. Wilder, a suitable lot was offered for this purpose; the lotbeing a large one cornering on Wilder Avenue and Sanborn Street.

At the Fourth Quarterly Conference in 1958, the gift of Dr. and Mrs. Wilder wasaccepted, the authority was given to build the parsonage and to borrow money forconstruction. As a growing church, we wanted a better home for our pastors, and in1959, a modem parsonage was built. A total of $15,000 was raised by pledges andcontributions making it necessary to only borrow $5,000. This amount was repaid in fiveyears.

The Rev. Carl Johnson and family occupied the new parsonage only nine months of histhree year tenure, before he was transferred to another charge.

BROOKS PATTON1959

Rev. Brooks Patton came in 1959. In December 1961, the congregation decided topurchase a new furnace and air-conditioning for the church building. A drive was madeand as a result, cash and pledges were sufficient to pay for the entire furnace and airconditioning units at a total cost of $12,730.13 ... all indebtedness on this being paid infull June 27, 1963.

Page Memorial Church suffered a great loss in 196 t when Miss Mary E. Page was takenby death at the age of 92. "Miss Mary" was the sole surviving child of Allison FrancisPage and Catherine Frances Page. Page Memorial Church will long remember herguiding influence and dedication.

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Rev. Brooks Patton "swapped" pastorates of the Aberdeen and Bethany church InDurham when Rev. 1. E. Sponenberg came to Page Memorial in June 1963.

J. E. SPONENBERG1963

Rev. James E. Sponenberg and his family came in June 1963. During his pastorate, Mr.Sponenberg served us well and the church moved forward in all areas. First and ofgreatest importance, he did much to enrich the Spiritual Life of the Congregation,preaching sometimes with depth and yet in simple language, with the Spiritual messagefor each worshiper.

Page marked two special anniversaries in July 1968 ... the seventy-ninth year since thechurch's founding and the fifty-fourth year of worship in the present church building.The observance began with a program sponsored by the Women's Society of ChristianService on July 14. The Junior and Senior MYF groups and the Society presented adrama on the history of the church.

On July 21, a second special program at the eleven o'clock worship service was held andfeatured 1. Lee Parker, as inspirational speaker. Attorney Robert N. Page, III gave theopening remarks and introduced the speaker. The morning offering, approximately$2000, was designated for repair of the original Tiffany glass windows and sanctuarywalls.

The old parsonage building was razed and plans were drawn with the hopes of startingwork on an Educational Building. During Mr. Sponenberg's pastorate, his influence andvision helped pave the way for the educational building to be built later.

ROBERT L. JEROME1969

Rev. Jerome began his pastorate on June 1, 1969 and in an amazingly short period oftime, (he and Mrs. Jerome) had visited practically the entire membership and the work ofthe church was off to a good start.

Under the direction and guidance of Rev. Jerome, a God and Country Award programwas instituted, and as a culmination of this program, Larry Bobbitt and Mike Garrisonreceived this coveted award.

The entire community and Page Memorial United Methodist Church in particular,suffered a great loss on Friday, December 3, 1971 when its pastor, Rev. Robert LeroyJerome, lost his life in an automobile accident.

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During his pastorate, he and Mrs. Jerome had served faithfully and had done a great dealto bring our church members in closer harmony and service. This great and good manhad made an impact on the lives of those he touched. His sermons were forceful andmade an impression on his listeners, because they knew he lived a life in keeping with hispreaching.

CARLOS WOMACKand

MRS. JEAN JEROME(January 1972-June 1972)

He inspired everyone he touched to a deeper Christian commitment, He brought ustogether and put us to work. We missed his fellowship, leadership, and the guidance ofthis truly great minister of the Lord.

Following the death of Rev. Robert Leroy Jerome, the church was without a pastor for afew Sundays, but we were fortunate in having Rev. Carlos Womack and Rev. J.F. Earlyfill in.

On January 11, 1972, Rev. Carlos Womack (retired and living in Southern Pines) wasappointed to serve the Page Memorial and Roseland United Methodist Churches untilconference.

Mrs. Jean Jerome served the church during the interim, preparing bulletins, getting outthe newsletter ("Pages"), which Mr. Jerome started during his pastorate, visiting themembership and doing almost everything except the pulpit preaching.

Upon Mr. Womack's appointment, he had a meeting with Mrs. Jerome, and it was agreedthat they would continue to share the church responsibilities, each receiving one-half thesalary. This proved to be a fine arrangement. During the time between Mr. Jerome'sdeath and Mr. Womack becoming our Interim Pastor, the official board voted to pay Mrs.Jerome her husband's salary.

The work of the church under the capable leadership of Rev. Womack and Mrs. Jerome,fully supported by the Administrative Board and church membership, continued itsupward surge.

In June, the interim work of Rev. Carlos Womack came to a close. The church wentforward during the months he served us and we were sorry to give him up. Due to hishealth, he did not feel that he could continue as our Pastor, and told us several weeksahead of Conference that we might be looking forward to having Rev. Wilber 1. Jacksonand his family as our Parsonage family.

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WILBUR I. JACKSON1972

Rev. Wilbur Jackson came to us in June 1972. Two of our members (Jan Fogleman atSoutheastern Theological Seminary and Dennis Sheppard at Methodist College) beganpreparing themselves to become full-time ministers during his time as pastor.

The membership roll book was revised and updated and a pictorial directory was printed.Each fifth Sunday night was set aside as Family Night with a covered dish meal.

$1000 was sent yearly to the Theis family, missionaries in Korea, in support of theirwork.

A prison ministry was started at Sandhills Youth Center at McCain. Twenty years later,four Page members were honored for their dedication and devotion in providing manyhours of volunteer services to this ministry with a Certificate of Appreciation from Gov.James B. Hunt. Honored were: Nell Bowman, Paul Seabolt, Evelyn Garrison and BillKerr.

The Baptist, Presbyterian and Methodist churches held joint revivals. There wereexcellent speakers and music of combined choirs.

On September 3, 1972, a memorial gift of Shulmerich Carillons were presented to thechurch. They were given in loving memory ofMr. Henry Ward Doub by his family. Theinside chimes are a part of the Carillon installment.

With ever increasing needs as a church, a Building Fund Drive was launched for a neweducational building with a square footage of 5450, which boasts a fine church library ofover 1500 volumes of books, musical records and Bible materials. Also housed in thisbuilding is the church office, pastor's study, large fellowship hall, kitchen, supply closets,and a mechanical room. This new structure serves our congregation well and is also usedby others for various types of gatherings and club work. It was completed and furnishedin 1974. Bishop Robert M. Blackburn dedicated the building in 1976.

L. RAY SPARROW1976

In March 1977, Mrs. Hazel Wicks, niece of the late G. C. Seymour, presented the finalassets of the Seymour estate to be added to the Hulda Brown Seymour Memorial TrustFund. We had our first Chrismon tree in 1977 with the Chrismons being made by theUnited Methodist Women under the leadership of Peggy Reaves. We also became activewith Meals on Wheels. A 1977 Dodge Van was bought which was used as our churchvan until 1994.

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ROBERT S. PULLMAN1978

A ramp was added for accessibility by the handicapped. In 1980, the NC MethodistConference named Page Memorial "Church of the Year" in the urban church category. Itwas the only UMC in eastern NC to sponsor the founding of another church. Throughthe support of Page Memorial congregation, the Light House UMC, a tri-racialcongregation, was chartered. The pastor was the Rev. Claude Dial and the lay leader washis wife, Ernestine Dial. With a membership of forty-five, the church was active forseveral years, but then disbanded. The building is now being used as a Baptist Church.

JAMES DONALD PHILLIPS1982

Don and his wife, Bettie, started the Lenten Luncheons. At noon each Wednesday,during Lent, a luncheon was served followed by a brief devotion. He also organized ourfirst Love Feast. A group of members met in Pinebluff at the Ceramic Shop of Leon andWilma Yates and made coffee mugs for the Moravian celebration. A special White Pinewas planted on the church lawn to be used as our Christmas Love Tree, with each lightplaced on the tree representing a special person in the life of another individual.

JULIAN SCOTT1989

In September 1986, the renovation of the Children's Building was completed and adedication service was held.

The framing of past minister's pictures was completed and are now displayed in the hallof the Educational Building.

BERRY BARBOUR1987

In 1988, a church directory was printed. After two years of service, Berry and his wife,Dixie, left Page to enter full-time evangelism and marriage enrichment workshopsthrough the Berry Barbour Ministries, Inc. in Garner, NC.

This year brought us several changes. Mrs. Paulette Kapp became our organist on June1. Rev. Julian Scott was called to be our minister on June 27 and on his first Sunday herehad a part in the dedication of our church into the Aberdeen Historical District.

The Centennial Festivities got off to a good start on Sunday, September 17 with "OldFashioned Day." Rev. Julian Scott was dressed in "John Wesley attire." The

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congregation wore clothes styled in the fashion of the late 1880's and early 1900's. Therewere "old timey" cars and wagons parked in front of the church.

A part of the Centennial celebration was the dedication of the new hymnals onSeptember 24.

Ann Sproles, president of United Methodist Women, unveiled and presented to thechurch for permanent display, a photo portrait of Susie Page Pleasants who was organistfrom 1920 to 1955. June Melvin, who served as organist from 1955-1989, wasrecognized at this time.

The Centennial Homecoming was October 8. Former pastor, The Rev. Brooks Patten,retired, was guest speaker. He spoke on "It was the best of times; it was the worst oftimes."

Thirty five members were honored who had been members of Page for fifty years ormore. Historic artifacts were on display in the Children's Building. The youth selecteditems that were placed in a box which was locked and placed in the library to be openedin fifty years.

The highlight of the year (1991) was the dedication of the Schantz Pipe Organ andConcert December 1. The cost of the new console and restoring the pipes was$99,826.98 which was paid in full.

A contract was signed (1993) for the redecoration of the sanctuary with services beingheld in the Fellowship Hall from July 11 until August 15 while work was being done inkeeping with the original design. Much love and devotion went into this project and wehad a beautiful service of dedication September 26.

On February 20, 1994,Raymond Sproles, Jr. was recognized as District Layperson at theannual Lay Rally of the Sanford District. This encompasses Chatham, Lee, Moore andMontgomery counties.

A highlight of 1994, was the furnishing of a parlor in honor of Mr. and Mrs. J.P.Garrison, given by their children. The room is beautiful, bright and cheerful. J.P andJulia were dedicated and contributing members of Page.

NOTE: The above information is a compilation of history notes (Mary Page, Mrs. e.E.Pleasants, Mrs. J.e. Robbins and Criss Shields), local and conference records, minister'snotes, articles from The Pilot and The Citizen News Record and files on loan from TheMalcolm Blue Historical Society.

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CHURCH mSTORlANS

Criss Shields

Mary E. Page

"We have been wonderfully blessed in the preachers we have had, all of whom have mettheir obligations and responsibilities far, far better than their congregation has ever done.We remember them with gratitude and affection."

"I would pay a tribute too, to our preachers wives, who have given such valuable help inall the work of the church. Some of them were outstanding in personality, in ability andservice. We hold them in grateful remembrance."

"As I look around this beautiful building, it is hard to realize that it can be 75 years old.Yet, I know that on Christmas Eve, 1918, the funeral of Walter Hines Page was heldhere. He was the oldest son of Allison Page and one of the outstanding men to come outof the south. I also know that 69 years ago today, October 8, 1920, Alice Page wasmarried to Frank Shamburger. It was the first big wedding in this sanctuary."

"Through the years, there have been many christenings, baptisms, Eagle Scout awards,weddings and funerals here. We each have our own memories. It is the sharing of theseimportant events in our lives that brings us together as a church family. We gather hereweek after week seeking forgiveness, divine guidance and fellowship just as those beforeus did. It is with pride we see our children and grandchildren following in our footsteps. "

Jean Robbins

"After the death of Evelyn Pleasants (Mrs. Charlie), I took over as Church Historian. Herdaughter, Margaret Pleasants Little, brought me a box of materials of her mother's ...mostly church bulletins and some things that the United Methodist Women were doing inthose years that she served.

At that time, we were sponsoring the annual church Bazaar and refurbishing the churchkitchen with three new copper bottomed kettles so that we could wash the dishes.Another project was to buy six deep aluminum pans for use in our family night suppers.Mrs. Mary Hooper would make and bake Chicken Pot pies for our suppers on Sundaynights.

Also, a call went out for each lady in the church to hem and bring to the kitchen, two dishtowels. Even today, when the calls go out, the ladies of Page Memorial continue torespond and they do so gladly and willingly, as they have done in former years.

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After a number of years, Mrs. Mae (Rhyne) Dowless took over from me and did anoutstanding job of recording the highl ights of our church and its families."

MINISTERSORDAINED IN

PAGE MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

THE REVEREND ROBERT BAREFIELDTHE REVERENDJAN FOGLEMAN

THE REVEREND DENNIS SHEPPARD

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DEVELOPMENT OF THE ARCHITECTUREFOR

THE PAGE MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCHABERDEEN NC

David S. McMichael

When the church retained 1. M. McMichael of Charlotte, NC as architect for a newchurch building in 1913, he proposed the design which met with the approval of theBuilding Committee." (The architect revised the sketches, following the wishes of thecommittee ..... to implement cost savings.)

The classical design of the proposed building was compatible with the adjacent PageMemorial Library which is also attributable to Mr. McMichael as architect. It wasdesigned in 1906 in a modest classical plan with porch and columns. It is thought veryappropriate that a church and library should be neighbors, a spiritual edifice standing by arepository of knowledge. Actually, the Bible of the church is a library of66 books.

1914

The Page Memorial Church floor plan was commendable in that the balcony providedclassrooms that could be opened into the auditorium, thereby increasing the seating onspecial occasions. This feature enabled the church in later years to incorporate the classroom space into full time balcony seating in a most economical manner. The two sidebays greatly increase the strength of the walls and enable the full load of the dome to besupported on the four corners of the bays. The lighted dome gives the effect of airinessand the ceiling creates a comfortable relaxing feeling which is contrary to the atmospherein many other church buildings where a feeling of closeness exists, a ceiling appearing tobear down on one. A glance up at the beautiful dome instills a comfortable feeling anddispels all uneasiness.

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"I am the vine, Ye are the branches." John 15:1

The acoustics are unexcelled and there are no undesirable seat locations. All can see, allcan hear, no isolation, all is conducive to peaceful worship. The architect pioneered indesigning churches with domes, indeed he introduced the dome and its pleasing benefitsto the south, where it became very popular.

The portico design suggests the four gospels with its four majestic columns executed inthe Greek Ionic order of classic architecture. The voluted capitols on the columns wereinspired in the Greek mind by the spiraling horns of a ram (sacrifice). It was to Ionia, ofcourse that the Apostle Paul joined to take the gospel. It should be remembered also thatthe early churches of the first and second centuries all had domes. Solomon's Templefeatured two massive pillars (columns) at its entrance "Boaz and Jachin" (strength andstability) - II Chronicles 3:17.

The architect chose Theme Windows for the church as they are more cheerful, bright andbetter illuminate the building than the darker Epic Windows (which tell a story anddepict characters as Christ blessing the children). The motif is a grapevine border - "I amthe vine, Ye are the branches." (John 15:1) around a field of colored glass. The centerfield is of sea shell, pearly, opalescent glass. This theme suggests that the congregation issurrounded by the world in which there are other churches - each window a church. Thecenter field of each window is the world and the grapes the Christian. "Ye are in theworld but not of the world. II

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~ ~ 'C:. \' II \ ~ G \ \u.' c.I- \ .

"I am the light of the world." John 8:1

Above the congregation is a window open to heaven - the dome glass. This windowdepicts the cross and grapes. The idea here is "The way of the cross leads home" toheaven above. We have here also the theme "I am the light of the world" (John 8:1,2.)

The architect of the building used windows during the period of its construction made bythe George Hardy Payne Studios, Inc. of Patterson, New Jersey. The artisans were thesuccessor to the famous Louis C. Tiffany Stained Glass Studios which was noted for theTiffany lamps also.

Finally it must be said that regardless of the merits of the Architect's blueprints, it is thecontractor that must produce the building. The late Mr. T. B. Creel was the contractorwho with his skill and professionalism constructed the building, where you may see hisworkmanship of the finest order."

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-MEMORIALS, TESTlMONIALS, ANECDOTES-

There have been so many dedicated people who have had a strong influence in thelife of this church. Some oftheir stories are here. We hope you will enjoy reading

them as much as we have enjoyed compiling them.

A special thank you to our past historians, to each of you who took time to shareyour memories, for the photography of Forrest Lockey, M.M. Creel, David Powers

and Ellsworth C. Eddy ... and to our proof readers. We also express ourappreciation to Dick Page and his family, who give this book as a memorial to

Lelia Page.

Cleo Frick, Criss Shields and Celeste Sponenberg

OLD FASHIONED SUNDAY - CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

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ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL

Louise Leach Martin Buchan

Some of the memories I have of my church, Page Memorial, are so vivid and so muchfun to relive and enjoy, Iwant to pass some of them on to the new members. When wewere babies, Lee and Iwere enrolled in the Cradle Roll Class. Our mothers, LouiseLeach Martin and Marie Godfrey Buchan, were teachers. The class room was the littleroom that is now the Powder Room (back of the organ and the Ladies Class Room). Theinfants and teachers used the outside entrance. My mother told me of this class (we weremembers in 1923 l) and the adorable babies of our church many times. She progressed toteach other classes as well as play the piano for our songs such as Jesus Loves Me and AllThings Bright and Beautiful.

Our little tables were semi-circles with a chair for each child. There was a tiny round,white wooden cake held up on Sunday for anyone who had had a birthday the prior week.It was a custom for the birthday child to bring a penny for each year and this was given tothe missionary fund. Candles (blue for boys and pink for the girls) were lighted for eachyear as the coins were counted.

Promotion Sunday was so special! This event was in the sanctuary (sometimes we evenhad new outfits for the day). As the name was called out, the recipient of the certificatestepped through a beautiful white picket archway carefully draped with ivy boughs.

Mrs. Forrest Lockey Sr., Mrs. Charlie Pleasants and Mrs. T. S. Melvin served asSuperintendents during my childhood. When we became teenagers, our classrooms werethe little rooms in the balcony of the sanctuary. Mrs. Tom Wilder and Mrs. H.W. Doubwere our teachers. It was quite awesome to go to Mrs. Wilder's home for a CandyPulling Party - the high school students were there, too, and they always played Spin theBottle. Mrs. Wilder had a quilting frame. Each student brought squares (we made themor prevailed upon parents or grandparents to help us) and Mrs. Wilder finished the quiltwith the help of the ladies of the church and the quilt was mailed to the MethodistChildren's Home. We made a number of quilts each year for the home.

Mrs. Doub encouraged us to learn to pray by having each student say a sentence prayer.Various themes were used - people we wanted to remember, things we were grateful foror some special event that happened during the week. She always had a lot of things forus to think about. It seems that our church has been so blessed with many outstandingmembers - so many with so much dedication and love. Such a beautiful reminder andconstant companion that Jesus Loves Us! For me it seems "All Things are Bright andBeautiful" (one of my mothers favorite songs).

My Children, you are to do mighty things for Me.Glories and wonders unfold. Life is one glorious whole.

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PAGE MEMORIAL UNITED METHODIST CHURCHAND

ITS INFLUENCE ON THIS COMMUNITY

J. C. Robbins

It was a Sunday morning in early September 1933! I was twenty one years of age andarrived in Aberdeen the day before to teach school and direct athletics at Aberdeen HighSchool. The school building was across the railroad tracks from the teacherage whichfaced Sycamore Street. I was alone in this building, which had once been a hotel. Iknew no one and was in a new world. About ten o'clock, there was a knock on the doorand Mr. AL. Burney, a prominent merchant in town, invited me to go to Sunday Schoolof which he was the Superintendent. He took me to Page Memorial Methodist ChurchSouth, as it was then, and r have belonged there for these sixty years.

I became involved in the activities of this church and served as Superintendent of theChurch School, teacher of the Men's Bible Class, President of Methodist Men, served onthe Administrative Board and was a lay speaker. It would be impossible for me toevaluate what this church has meant to me and to the hundreds of men, women andchildren who have come under its ministry. With its beautiful architecture and design, itscopper dome and Corinthian columns, it has been an inspiration to thousands of thosewho have worshipped there as well as to the people who have passed by it.

I have been asked to describe some of the contributions of the Page family and theirinfluence on this church's history. In the first place, it was they who built this church in1913 and gave it to the community as a worship center. The family also gave greatsupport at all times, financially, spiritually and with guidance. The whole theme andpurpose was to bring people into a close and personal relationship with Jesus Christ.This aim has been exemplified and accomplished.

It was my pleasure and great opportunity to live with one of the Page families while ayoung man. This gave me an insight into the great influence which these familiesexerted on this community and especially Page Memorial Church. The Wilder homewas a lovely home set back in a forest of long leaf pines and with a formal garden.Frances Page Wilder, a sister of her famous brothers, presided and managed the home.She was highly cultured and completely dedicated to the welfare of her family and herchurch and had a part in its construction. The Baptismal Font was given to the church byher sister, Miss Mary, as a memorial to her great Christian character. I was honoredwhen I was asked to give the dedicatory address for this memorial.

Members of her family were also faithful to the church. Her daughter, Alice, taught inChurch School, sang in the choir and performed other services for her church. Alicebecame a WAC during World War II and served very well in the service of her country.Also, there was Dr. Bob Wilder, who served his country in France and Germany in World

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War II. He also gave the land for our new parsonage when it was constructed. Bob'smany charities were known only to God and himself.

In this family, there were two outstanding maiden ladies. Miss Emma Page was a verywell educated lady who spent most of her active life as a Professor of Religion atGreensboro College, an outstanding Methodist College. She taught there until she retiredand then came to Mrs. Wilder's until her death.

Miss Mary Page was a very independent person, and owned and lived in her own homeon Page Hill for a long time. She was a very prominent member of the older Page familyand served as its secretary. She was very business like, and kept all records in her ownbeautiful hand writing. She had a mind of her own and did not mind expressing it. Inmost instances, she was dogmatic in tone, but was straight forward and had greatcommon sense. She had two great loves: Page Memorial United Methodist Church andPage Memorial Library. She was constantly trying to improve the church; get it painted,polished, new hymnals; and other improvements. She was emphatic in what she set outto do and usually succeeded in her efforts. She was an outstanding citizen and was proudof the fact that she became one of the oldest members of the Town of Aberdeen. Aftershe and others had lost much of their wealth, her famous statement was "All we had leftwas what we gave away." Miss Mary Page was a strong character, "a woman for allseasons."

Our church gets much of its strength today through the heritage of those who have gonebefore. May this church continue to serve this community with its Christian outreach justas it has served in its first century.

The greatest treasure a man can leave his children,is an intimate knowledge of God.

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Mrs. Robert Farrellas told to Criss Shields

A LOVELY CHURCH FAMILY

My family moved to Aberdeen in 1917 when I was five years old. There were five of uschildren, two boys and three girls. My father, John V. Ferree, was a telegraph operatorfor the railroad and one thing that stands out in my mind was the many troop trains.

The family soon became active members of Page Memorial Methodist Church. Thechurch was beautiful and I especially enjoyed the music. My mother sat in the choir andmy two older brothers took their turn pumping the organ for Mrs. Susie Pleasants, theorganist, on Sunday morning. They would climb up the ladder through the trap door intothe attic. In the summer it would really be hot up there. It took a lot of air to play the bigEstey pipe organ and it was more than one young boy could do so they took turns. Theywould sit down on a seat with the bellows on the floor to the right and the lever would beacross in front of them. When it was time for music, they would grasp it and pump upand down. Mother was just below them in the choir and if they talked or made any noise,she would hear it and they would later be punished at home. She could also keep her eyeon us girls as we sat in the middle near the front. We knew not to talk so we learned tosend notes by pointing to words in the hymnal.

There were no Sunday School buildings, so our classes met in the back of the balconywhere the petitions are. As I got older, our classroom was the area now called ThePrayer Room. Mrs. Bob Page stands out in my mind as being such a lovely person andwonderful Sunday School teacher. Next to my mother, she was the most true Christian Ihave ever known. My mother also taught a Sunday School class and the family Biblewas returned to me only about two years ago (1987). It was found stored in the churchbasement.

I have so many pleasant memories of watermelon cuttings about where the holly treestands now. The first big wedding was of Mr. Frank Shamburger and his beautiful bride,Alice. It was a lovely church family to grow up in and be a part of

Children are the sumof what parents contribute

to their lives.Richard Strauss

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Old Family Bible of Janette Farrell

YOUR CHURCH AND MY CHURCH

Jean Robbins (1980)

What does your church standfor?What does it look like?

Is there a pride in itfor you?What does it mean to say, "That is my church!"

As Church Historian, I record the outstanding events that happen in the Life of theChurch as I see it. Dr. Pullman possibly sees it differently. Mrs. Evelyn Pleasants, whodied two years ago, saw it differently. She did an outstanding job and I shall never fill hershoes, but will do my best to faithfully record the events as I see them and once a year Ishall take the pages down to the church and attach them to the history already recorded.

When I came to Aberdeen in 1941, right out of college, I was struck by the beauty of thisold structure within and without. I was a member of another church, but came to this oneon occasions. At the time, 39 years ago, the Old Sunday School building was used daily.It was a Bee Hive of activity for the Red Cross and bandages were rolled there from eightuntil eight each day. If anybody had an hour or so they reported and used the many tables

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set up for their work. All kinds of bandages were assembled there and the Red Crosstruck came twice a week to pick up the packages and bring in more raw material for us towork with. I was a teacher, but worked after school and on Saturdays. We felt goodhelping out. Bazaars were held in the old building, never to be forgotten ones, withpeople coming from Greensboro, Raleigh and Fayetteville - this was in addition toScouts who held meetings there.

Each Sunday night we had supper for the MYF ... sometimes we cooked it and othertimes we brought it in... Lion Clubs used it ... and on and on, always in the shadow ofthe Big Church and a part of it.

Where the New Sunday School Building now stands was the white, frame, two storiedparsonage with Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Lane, our pastor, living there with their family. Theyalso took in soldiers and their wives for short visits. Two wooden swings were at eitherend of the big front porch and flowers lined the door. It was a happy place to be nearand a part of One up-stairs room was used as our church library. We had two tablespiled high with books. Devotional books, Inspirational Books, sermons, Missions studiesand a few novels. Most of our programs for our Circles and Women's meetings camefrom this table. Mrs. Sydney Windham and I were in charge of literature. We kept anotebook for people to sign out what they had taken.

During the war we had soldiers sleeping in the church building - many of our churchmembers were mad about this. The USO was next door and coffee, cookies, meals andfriendship were served around the clock. Troop trains came through Aberdeen and foundsouthern hospitality here.

These are some of my first recollections of Page Memorial. Later on I would become amember ... marry the Church School Superintendent and bring up my children in thischurch. It has been an inspiration and a privilege to be a part of this church.

Do some things to help it. Work for it. Support it with time and money and always agood word for what it does - much unseen - that counts the most!

You, too will point with pride and say, THIS IS MY CHURCH.

The fruit of our righteousnessis obedience to God

and love toward others.

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WESLEY BIBLE CLASS

Mabel CummingJune 1989

We came to Aberdeen in 1927 and joined Page Memorial Church. There were only twoAdult classes, The Men's Bible Class and The Ladies Wesley Bible Class. No matterwhether you were young or old adults, you were in one of these classes. Miss FloyMartin was teaching the Ladies Class at this time and we met in the church sanctuary.The Children's Sunday School was in what is now the Wesley Bible Class and ChoirRoom.

Some of the members at that time were: Mrs. Evelyn Pleasants, Katie Gwyn, AliceRhyne, George Martin, Sr., J.V. Ferree, Marjorie Doub, IT. Robertson, Helen Capps,Betty Bobbitt, Dixie Farrell, Miss Lillian Pleasants, Miss Bertie Goodwyn and more that Ican't recall.

Years later when the men joined our class we changed the name to The Wesley BibleClass. With the joined classes, we have had as many as 35 members on roll, now with nonew ones coming in, we have only 13 members.

Through the years, we have contributed to a lot of worthy causes in the church, such asup-keep in the classroom, buying the chairs, the piano, the first carpet, drapes, donatingto the furnace, organ and anything else that we were called on to do.

WESLEY BIBLE CLASSFrom 1949-1954

Criss Shields-January 1995

During 1949-1954, the class met each Sunday morning for study and once a month atnight for the transaction of its business and a social hour. The Presidents were: 1949-1950 - Mrs. Ralph Chapman, 1951 - Mrs. F. A. Cumming, 1952 - Mrs. R. S. Gwyn, 1953- Mrs. H. A. Gunter, 1954 - Mrs. Lawrence Farrell.

Mrs. Virginia Bowman was the teacher and the class reluctantly voted to release her soshe could teach the Young People's Class. Mr. R. Z. Zimmerman became the teacher in1951 and taught until 1970. It was after his death that the Mens Bible Class and theLadies Wesley Bible Class joined to become the Wesley Bible Class.

The hostesses for the monthly business and social meeting would be responsible forbeing greeters on the Sunday morning and evening services. They would also providetransportation for Miss Nora Norris for the month.

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They had a Finance Committee who planned many money making projects. They servedmany Lions Suppers, had rummage sales, sold cards, bird feeders, church plates and otherthings. The profits were turned over to the Treasurer to carry on the many class projects.They bought an electric range, hot water heater, silver and dishes for the kitchen. Drapeswere bought for their classroom and 36 chairs were bought and paid for in September1954 at a cost of $458.80. Once they were called on for 68 lemon pies for a fish frygiven by the Guild. They gave to Camp Don Lee, to ~ for a year's supply of milk to achild and sent a care package to Korea.

There was a Miss Nora's Committee. Miss Nora was blind and they saw to her needs bybuying her material things as needed. She received the Upper Room in Braille and theygave her a Braille watch. She gave to them through music; she sang and played thepiano. Often she did a program or a devotional.

For the social hour, they provided their own entertainment, most of the time with gamesor contests. Meeting in members homes or in the Men's classroom (the basement of thepresent Children's Building), there were always delicious refreshments. In 1954, theyhad an average attendance of 17 at the class meetings and 27 for Sunday School.

This class has been an important part of Page Memorial Church since its formation.They took pride in taking a project, raising the money and paying their bill. They did notleave unpaid bills for those following them.

Members of the class today are: Dora Chapman, Evelyn Garrison, Roberta Keller, PaulSeabolt, Willie Sheppard, Roy Smith and Gwendolyn Zimmerman.

Those who can no longer attend because of health reasons: Margaret Troutman, EvelynMcFarland, Mary Thomas, Alliene Creel, Mamie Humpheries and Freda Edge.

We give them our love, respect and appreciate their example.

If you love Me and long to serve othersby showing them what I am like,

you will assuredly do so.A. J. Russell

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MAKEAJOYFULNO~EUNTOTHELORD

Hilma Swaim

When the Swaim family joined Page Memorial Church, the parsonage was a white framehouse standing where the Educational Building now stands. The name of the church wasyet to be changed to Page Memorial United Methodist Church.

As music has always been part of my life, I enjoyed the music of Page's choir, so Ibecame a member. At times I was asked to substitute for the organist and also the ChoirDirector. What a wonderful way to make a joyful noise unto the Lord!

The family of Page Memorial Methodist Church has meant so much to our family,always giving support, understanding and love in times of happiness and sorrow. I amthankful to be a Christian and to be able to worship at Page.

Amazing Grace .How sweet the sound .

John Newton 1770

THE WOMEN OFPAGE MEMORIAL UMC

Lee Page

During the early years of Page Memorial, the organized women of the church wereknown as the Ladies Aid Society, and as such, they contributed greatly to the furnishingand maintaining of the parsonage (which efforts continue today), in addition to helpingmigrant workers, and others in need. All the while they were contributing to the missionwork of the church.

Page Memorial was a unit of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, in the FayettevilleDistrict. After the merger of the three branches of Methodism into the United MethodistChurch, the Ladies Aid Society was reorganized, and became the Woman's MissionarySociety, and, in 1940, the Women's Society for Christian Service (WSCS). Thesecretary's minutes for that date records this event thusly: "In a service in Page MemorialChurch, Monday afternoon, September 2, 1940, the Woman's Missionary Society of thechurch was dissolved, and the members of the organization became charter members ofthe Woman's Society of Christian Service, which will embrace all woman's work in theMethodist Church under the unification plan." At the time, there were fifty-fivemembers.

During World War II, the WSCS rallied 'round "our boys in the service", sending gifts,testaments and words of encouragement. They also purchased and maintained scrollshonoring these servicemen.

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Prior to December of 1970, the WSCS and the Wesleyan Service Guild were separateentities. However, at that time, the WSG was disbanded and became one with theWSCS. In July, 1972, the WSCS became known as United Methodist Women. Theirpurpose is as follows: The organized unit of United Methodist Women shall be acommunity of women whose PURPOSE is to know God and to experience freedom aswhole persons through Jesus Christ; to develop a creative, supportive fellowship; and toexpand concepts of mission through participation in the global ministries of the church.

A number of programs inaugurated by the Methodist women have been adopted by thechurch as a whole, and have become church projects. Among these are the blanket fundand the Chrismon tree, about which more will be found in the history of the church,

Upon occasion, the women of the UMW have learned, first-hand, the value of theirsupport for missions abroad, when missionaries and their families have visited andreported on the need for continuance of this support.

From the very beginning of the church's existence, its women have been dedicated totaking the gospel to women and children in other lands, to healing the sick, and tooffering education to women. The impact of mission work at home and abroad has beenclearly recognized; and with whole-hearted support of its women, the church hasprospered.

Take all who come as sent by Me,and give them a royal welcome.

It will surprise you, all that I have planned for you.A.J. Russell

A REMEMBRANCE

Bob LeeSeptember 10, 1989 as told to Criss Shields

Many of us know Mr. Bob Lee, retired Moore County Schools Superintendent. He andhis family lived in Aberdeen and were active members of Page Memorial before movingto Carthage in 1959. Mr. Lee was the coach at Aberdeen High School and then principalfor several years. He was one of our outstanding Sunday School teachers.

He telephoned to share a fond memory of Miss Mary Page that happened in the late1950's. It must have been the Sunday the Parsonage was dedicated. The church was fulland the Bishop was present. Miss Mary was sitting in the back off the church and asked ifshe would like to say a few words. In her tall, stately and dignified manner she arose and

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walked to the front of the church and said, "My brothers wrote books, they wereambassadors and they accumulated wealth. All they have to show for their living is whatthey gave away". She returned to her seat.

Mr. Lee says he doesn't remember what the minister or the Bishop said that day, but therewas a sermon in Miss Mary's words and he will never forget them. We appreciate hissharing this with us.

There is only one basisfor really enjoying life

and that is to walk in the waywhich God leads you.

Copied

A HELPING HAND TO OTHERS

Celeste Sponenberg

In a tribute to Forrest Lockey (July 1957) in recognition of his four years as the EighthDivision Highway Commissioner, G. C. Seymour, a longtime friend and civic leader,shared his memory of a youthful Lockey. "When he first came to work in Aberdeen, Ithought the best thing he did was marry Miss Carrie Hurley. I'm glad I lived long enoughto find out she has done very well for herself!"

When Lockey traveled from the small town of Raeford to the equally small town ofAberdeen to work for the A & R Railroad, he was nineteen years old. Upon his arrival,he stated that he "was going to marry the prettiest girl in Aberdeen" ... and he did.

Carrie, born on the same street she lived on most of her life, became the bride of Forrestin 1920. Married by the Reverend Peele in the Methodist Church, their union produceduseful citizens who worked for the betterment of their church, community and state.

Speaking with love and respect for his parents, Forrest, Jr. stated, "Mother and Dad had avery happy life which can be attributed to the fact that they were Christians who weredeeply involved in Page Memorial. I grew up in the church and it, my family, mycommunity and Boy Scouts were my world ... my interests ... and my outlets. I can'timagine not being part of a Christian family."

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Miss Mary Page and Mrs. Lockey were friends and neighbors. Their special relationshipcould be described as a "mentorship" in that Mrs. Lockey admired Miss Mary's civicmindedness, spirituality and the fact that she was well educated. The Annual Bazaar wasan inspiration of Miss Mary's and Mrs. Lockey assisted as well as the other ladies of thechurch. This fund raiser was a means of income for church maintenance.

Mr. Lockey, Jr. stated that his mother was as a Sunday School teacher, one of threeladies to first serve on the Administrative Board with Miss Mary Page and Katie Gwyn;Communion Steward; Superintendent of Sunday School; Chairman of the Estee OrganFund and involved in the various women's groups. She also joined with others who "tooktheir dust clothes and cleaning supplies" to the church each Saturday to ready God'shouse for Sunday Service. The women also volunteered their time and talents forfunerals and weddings by sharing flowers from their gardens as well as their decoratingskills.

In speaking of his father, Mr. Lockey, Jr. stated that "if there was a need, he would seethat it was done." The church nursery is an example of this. "One hot, summer,Sunday, Dad noticed that small children coming out of the Education Building were'sopping' wet. The next Sunday, an air conditioner had been placed in one of thewindows and a few Sundays later, carpeting and curtains had been added for the littlefolks to enjoy." The elder Mr. Lockey also served as Chairman of the AdministrativeBoard and was a Trustee. He could be depended on, he kept his promises and hecontributed greatly.

In summing up his feelings, Forrest, Jr. said that, "Our church has always workedtogether not only as a congregation but with other denominations to meet the needs ofour community. During my youth, most every family attended church ... somewhere. Iwent to school with the same young people with whom I attended church. There was abond ... a closeness. "

When asked to share a special memory, Mr. Lockey, Jr. stated with humor, "No youngboy has put up and taken down more tables and chairs than I have!!"

"I am Love and Joy and Peaceand Strength and Power and Healing and Humility

and Patience,and all else you see in Me your Lord."

God Calling-God at Eventide

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UNITED METHODIST MEN

Cleo and Gary Frick

Approximately thirty-five years ago, the men at Page organized with about fifteenmembers and met once a month for breakfast in the Fellowship Hall of our presentChildren's Building. Robert E. Lee served as the first president for two years followed bylC. Robbins.

Early members included Jack Dowless, James Garrison, Adam Gamer, Troy Geer, EdGraham, David Bobbitt, Talmage Bobbitt and D.P. Troutman. After eight to ten years,the group disbanded. Our present UMM received its charter in December 1972 withabout twenty members.

Early activities included Father-Son week-end trips to Camp Rock Fish, Father-DaughterDay, Valentine Ladies Night, floats in the Fourth of July and Christmas parades, tapingworship services for shut-ins and assisting with the White Christmas programs.

During the 1980's and '90's, the group has sponsored the annual church bazaar,contributed money for the Sandhills Youth Center transportation, a Boy Scout troop,audio-visual equipment, a mobile home for the Lighthouse Church minister and donatedfunds toward a Sanford District emergency kitchen. Other activities included helpingwith the Children's Building Renovation, hosting Sunrise Service coffee and doughnutbreakfast, sending delegates to the Southeastern and National Conferences, participationin the Upper Room Prayer Ministry and most recently a church-wide yard sale.

From 1973 until the present time, these men have served at least two years as President:Gene Riddle, David Shepard, Billy Sheppard, Glenn Fogleman, James Craven, GaryFrick, David Powers, Raymond Sproles, Robert Farrell and presently Brad Low.

Righteousness is the fulfillment of God's creative purposein a man's whole life.

It is the response of the highest in manto the claim of God.

Percy Ainsworth

THE FELLOWSHIP CLASS

Dixie Reynolds

My family and I moved to Aberdeen in 1959 and joined Page Memorial MethodistChurch the same year. We came here as Rev. Carl Johnson was leaving and Rev. BrooksPatten was arriving, so to speak.

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We also joined the Fellowship Class, which was formed to meet a need for young adultsand couples with young children. The class met in what is now the Children's Building,which was built in 1930.

When The Fellowship Class was first started in 1948, Robert (Bob) Lee and Dr. F. M.Bishop were two of the first teachers. Bob was coach and principal at Aberdeen HighSchool at that time.

I recall that Velda Pullen, J.c. Robbins and H. W. Doub taught the class. When Mr.Doub was teaching, he offered to match any funds that were raised to start a churchlibrary. Rev. Robert Jerome strongly supported it and we accepted the challenge!

Other class members that served as teachers were Juanita Auman, Tillie Sponenberg,Daphne Clonts, Jay Greer, Mary Sue Bums, Gene Riddle, Albert Troutman, GlennFogleman, Ed Graham, Jean Shepherd, Jessie Benson, Jimmy and Evelyn Garrison, MissNora Norris and my husband, Wade. (I'm sure that there were others, but at present, Ican't recall.)

"Miss Nora", as she was known, was a member of the Wesley Bible Class and wasalways glad when called on to teach the Fellowship Class. Making her home with theMcInnis family in Aberdeen, "Miss Nora" had been blind from birth and had received hereducation from the NC School for the Blind in Raleigh. After graduating from theschool, she taught music and kindergarten there. One of the class rooms in the Children'sBuilding is dedicated to her memory by her former students and friends. "Miss Nora"was loved by all.

Janie Melvin was superintendent of the Children's Department of the Sunday School andlC. Robbins was superintendent of the general Sunday School. Both of them were veryfaithful.

In 1974, a second educational building was completed under the pastorate of Rev. WilburJackson. Over the years, the Fellowship Class has met in this building and we are stillgoing strong.

Our teachers have been Glenn Fogleman, Ralph Dodge, Charles Acker, Dixie Barber andRev. Claude Dial and his wife, Ernestine. Many others have filled in when called on. Atthis writing, Bill Kerr is our teacher.

The class has had many projects over the years, but one worth mentioning is the HoltFoundation. We have supported this foundation for years. It enables orphaned childrento be fed and clothed until they are put in foster homes or adopted.

There have been so many good Bible lessons taught that we have been able to apply toour everyday living as well as in rearing our children. I know others feel as I doconcerning this class. What a privilege and blessing! Thanks be to God!

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There is only one basisfor really enjoying life

and that isto walk in the way

in which God leads you.Copied

Juanita Greer Auman

BACK DOOR NEIGHBORS

In 1959, Sally and Carl Johnson moved into the new Methodist parsonage on WilderAvenue. My mother, Mrs. John J. Greer (Parry French), soon appeared at their back doorwith food and flowers and invited Sally to "come over any time." As Mom worked in herflower beds and garden, the somewhat shy Sally did visit and became a true back-doorneighbor and friend.

Thus developed the back-door visitations by the "unpaid" member of the team ... thewife . . . lonely and transplanted. In my mother, they found a welcome and a goodconversationalist about books, world events, flowers, birds and children. She was neverintrusive and if a confidence was exchanged, it remained just that.

Each lady was different, some becoming good friends, others mere acquaintances. Momso admired the serenity of Jean Jerome following the accidental death of her husband(Rev. Robert Jerome). They had many conversations and she became a close, dearfriend.

Perhaps Jennie Patten and her boys were favorites. Jennie would appear at the backdoor, flushed and pretty from herding her active four. "Mrs. Greer! Mrs. Greer! Couldwe come in? I really need some adult conversation!" At the long kitchen table, the ladieshad tea, the boys cookies and milk, and then conversation time.

My sisters and I recall an urgent request from Morn, asking us to bring home somedresses. One of the families was being moved and a first visit to the church scheduled.Mom stated that the pastor's wife had nothing to wear and no extra money to buy a dress(salaries were poor, remember. .. ?). We did as requested, a selection was made and thewife went to that first important inspection in a borrowed dress, looking pretty andfeeling good about herself. Morn had reacted as she would have for any of her ownchildren.

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As she became less active, Mom missed the close contact with the wives. But, shecherished the friendships, dreaded each leaving, and looked forward to meeting the newwife. She loved the return visits and cards and kept up with the moves for each family.

After her death, we had many lovely comments from the wives. My mother would neverhave thought of it as such, but hers was in fact a needed mission.

A blessed thing it isfor man or woman to have a friend •..

rTHE HIGH CALLING OF GOD IN JESUS CHRIST

James Eugene Sponenberg, Jr.

Near the Annual Conference Session of June 17-20, 1963, the District Superintendent ofthe Durham District, the Reverend Mr. Offie Hathaway, informed me that I was going tobe appointed to the Aberdeen charge consisting of Page Memorial Methodist Church andRoseland Methodist Church. The Aberdeen charge had the reputation of being a goodappointment and I looked forward to serving the people of Aberdeen and Roseland withgreat anticipation.

When the appointments were read near the close of Annual Conference on June 20,1963, my name was read out to go to the Aberdeen charge. On June 27, 1963, my family(Matille "Tillie", James Eugene ITI and Robert Clark and I) moved to Aberdeen. Theparsonage needed some repairs, so the Sponenbergs did not fully occupy our new homeuntil the last of the next week. In a few days, we were settled in and ready to go to work.The people of Aberdeen received us graciously and we felt right at home. That made iteasy to become acquainted and to fulfill the responsibility as shepherd of the flock.

When the people of Page Memorial recognized a need, they accepted the challenge.Maintenance of a building is always present and Page Memorial was no exception. Thechurch was, is and continues to be a beautiful architectural structure. It was gratifying tome, the pastor for six years, for the congregation's willingness to maintain the church.

During the years I served Page Memorial, it became apparent that a larger fellowshiphall, classroom facility, library, church office and pastor's study were needed if thechurch was to effectively minister to community and to the congregation. Plans weredrawn and accepted, monies raised. It was the consensus of the Building Committee topostpone the construction until more funds were available. Five years later, the buildingwas constructed.

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In all the work areas, the church accepted their responsibilities. I lift up several:

The attendance in the Worship Service increased and the church grew in membership(not in any great numbers). The Church School Workers were faithful and also thepupils - the children, youth and adults.

The congregation grew in their awareness of being faithful in their stewardship. Thismade it possible for Page Memorial to be recognized as a church reaching out to ministerto people around the world and next door. The church was able to meet theresponsibilities asked by the Annual Conference.

Evangelism was not forgotten or neglected. Special Evangelistic Services were heldeach year. The congregation grew in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior, JesusChrist.

The name of the church was changed from Page Memorial Methodist Church to PageMemorial United Methodist Church. The reason for this was that The Methodist Churchunited with The Evangelical United Brethren Church in 1968. A number of changescame about in the organizational structure of the church. Page Memorial UnitedMethodist Charge, along with the church at large, accepted the changes and continued tobe a faithful witness to God and His church.

I am grateful for the six years served as pastor of Page Memorial. We were not free ofproblems, but they were resolved as people and pastor worked together.

Page Memorial has a great history and is a caring church. Therefore, the admonition ofthe Apostle Paul to the church at Philippi is appropriate: "But this one thing I do,forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth into those things whichare before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in ChristJesus." Philippines 3:13-14. This admonition gives us strength and courage for the tasktoday and faith to plan for tomorrow.

Thanks be to God !

The preacher who best commands the truthof the gospel to his hearers

is he who had translated that truthinto his own life,

until his life is full of itand redolent of it.

Anonymous

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ANECDOTESMrs. Mary Hooper

as told to Mrs. J. C. Robbins, April 23, 1982

Mrs. Mary Hooper called me last week and told me two incidents that many of you mayremember. The first concerns the carpeting of the vestibule, fixing the front door and themaking of the present Prayer Room, which was later on dedicated to the memory of MissMary E. Page.

She related that she was in the church and Mr. 1.B. Edwards, Chairman of the Board, atthat time, came in and they were talking about carpet and how it would cost over ahundred dollars, but that it would be nice and block out a lot of the noise of late comers,and it was approved and done. Also they noticed that the front doors needed somerepairs to make them fit more evenly and Mr. Charlie Carpenter, a master craftsman andhusband of Mrs. Lydia Carpenter, was asked to make these needed repairs, which he did.

At the time the Reverend Brooks Patten was the minister and Mrs. Hooper was Presidentof the Women's Society and Miss Mary was then the Treasurer and was NOT in favor ofthe carpeting of the vestibule. Anyway, it was done and paid for by giving dinners for theKiwanis Club and church dinners. Now the problem was to GET THE MONEY FROMMISS MARY. This job fell to Mrs. Susie Pleasants and Mrs. John Greer. And they gotit! Mrs. Hooper drove them to Miss Mary's house on Poplar Street and waited anxiouslyfor the two to come out. Finally, they came out with the check and the carpet was paidfor. These were tense times.

During the time of the Reverend Wilbur Jackson, it was voted to redo the church benchesand the cost of each one was $157.00. Many families took a bench, paid the $157.00 andthe work began. Mary Hooper remembers that she did not have the money, but decidedto give a turkey dinner at her home to raise it. A neighbor gave her a large turkey and shemade candied sweet potatoes, green beans, slaw and cranberry sauce for the dinner.Other neighbors and friends made cakes and 45 people ate the bountious meal. Mrs.Juanita Auman, Pew Chairperson, passed a basket after dinner, as there was no charge forthe meal, only a donation was asked, and would you believe it, when the contents of thebasket was counted, there was $157 ....exactly, in the basket. That is how she paid for herpew.

Then, one last story was told me by Mrs. Hooper about the furnishings for the PrayerRoom which had been a kind of "catchall and junk room" until the ladies took it over.Mrs. Margaret Troutman, Mrs. Sue Swaringen, Miss Frances Pleasants and others workedon the transformation of this eyesore until today it is a meaningful and lovely part of ourchurch. Mr. John Greer made the kneeling bench for the room and got the four chairs atcost, as he was in the furniture business, and a table was purchased to complete this vitalpart of our overall church facility.

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Over the years, many changes and additions have taken place, always lovingly and withthe help of many people.

Faith is the inward confidence that God existsand that His word is true.

YE' OLE' CHURCH BELL

Boo Simmons

The church bell hangs silently in its tower by the southeastern comer of the sanctuary,waiting and ready to announce another special occasion. Then once again its sound willbe heard over the town. The bell was last rung in March, 1993 for Aberdeen HeritageDay.

While growing up in the church, Louise Buchan has fond memories of hearing the bell asit was rung on Sunday mornings before Sunday School and again before the church houron those alternate Sundays when it was Page Memorial's turn to have a preaching service.After all, the minister was also pastor at Vass Methodist Church and at the RoselandChurch so was shared by all three. Weddings and funerals were other privileged timeswhen the bell was rung. Louise remembers the beautiful sounds on Sunday morningswhen the bells from Page Memorial, Bethesda Presbyterian and First Baptist Churchcould be heard in unison around the small town.

Information received from Highland County District Library in Hillsboro, Ohio tells usthe bell was cast in Ohio in 1922 by the C.S. Bell Company for a cost of two hundreddollars. Weighing one thousand, sixty-two pounds, it was placed on a train for shipmentto Aberdeen and to Page Memorial Church.

In 1960, the well-worn wheel holding the bell in place needed replacing. RaymondAuman and Leo Arey crafted a new wooden wheel in Leo's workshop. Though lastingabout thirty-five years, it was time again for a replacement in 1993. Today a steel wheelmade by Les Kellam, Biscoe, NC has been hoisted up the tower and again the bell isresting securely in place, waiting ...

Bells are music'slaughter, praise, joy and sorrow ...

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CHILDREN'S CHOIR

Kay Anderson

In the early 70's, we were fortunate to have a very large children's choir. We alwaysmanaged to get our little girls to participate, but getting the boys was hard. I rememberone of our Christmas programs ... and we were determined to get the boys involved, sowe selected songs that involved the boys. That Christmas, Robert Miley was the littledrummer boy with the rest of the children playing rhythm band instruments and paradingbehind Robert singing.

Reverend Wilbur Jackson was so impressed with the children's Christmas program(getting the boys involved) that he asked us to start church with the little drummer boysong the Sunday before Christmas.

We had so much talent both in singing and playing the piano. Sharon Troutman, LoriVan Dyke, and Denise Allred all played the accompaniment for the children's choir.Edith Robbins, a high school student, assisted in leading the choir.

Oh, Lord, we praise thee and bless Thy name forever.

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SPIRITUAL, EMOTIONAL AND PRACTICAL LOVE

Jan Fogleman

Page Memorial has been my home church since my family moved to Aberdeen in 1965.In addition to the faith that was practiced and learned in the Fogleman household, SundaySchool provided religious training while the UMYF provided fellowship in anenvironment where faith was put into action. The images of my family, ministers,Sunday School teachers and UMYF counselors continue to teach and guide me to thisday. UMYF provided some of my first experiences at public speaking, programplanning, group leadership, singing and participation on the Administrative Board .experiences which have been vital in every aspect of my life and ministry.

The financial generosity of Page church has been substantial, with the Seymour Fundproviding vital support for both Shelley and me throughout our seminary and chaplaincytraining.

When God called me to the ministry in 1972, Page church provided the emotionalencouragement, financial support and moral direction necessary to pursue that calling.Rev. Wilber Jackson became something of a mentor to me in my development as a pastorin his capacities at the local church and conference levels. He gave me my firstopportunity to preach, with mine being perhaps the shortest sermon by the most nervousspeaker ever in the history of Page Memorial!

The ordination gift of the minister's robe always reminded me of the encouragement andprayers of my home church each time I wore it, providing a sense of connectedness ofPage Memorial with every other church in which I ministered.

The emphasis of missions at Page Memorial instilled in me a sense of the moralresponsibility of putting faith into practice, an ideal which deeply affected my ministryand personal life, and which continues to inform my current training as a clinicalpsychologist.

Such practical expressions of faith and love are perhaps most clearly experienced intimes of crisis. And words can never express my deep appreciation for the love and carepoured out on me and my family by the church after the wreck which killed Shelley andour children, and the care showed our family before and after the death of my father. Inshort, Page Memorial Church embodies a unique combination of the spiritual andemotional and practical love of God which I have never experienced more completely ina congregation anywhere. I am proud to call Page Memorial United Methodist Churchmy home church.

May the love, grace and power of God continue to bless Page Memorial UnitedMethodist Church !

'"

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Remember that the finest quality of greatness ...is SERVICE.

I REMEMBER

Dennis SheppardHopewell United Methodist Church

Page Memorial United Methodist Church played a very important role in my life. I canwell remember Sunday School days, the fun, the experience and the lessons learned.

I remember having class in both the old and new Educational Buildings, in the oldparsonage, Page library and especially in the alcove of the balcony of the church. All ofmy teachers had an impact on my faith and my life. They were all preparing me for theministry, whether they knew it or not.

There are so many other memories - Bible School, UMYF, "Trick or Treating forUNICEF", Christmas Caroling, being an acolyte, being an usher, singing in the choir andthe Community Revivals that grew out of the "Key 73" program. I helped to start a newSunday School Class (the Cross Talk Class), a United Methodist Men's Club, a churchsoftball league and a "Yokefellow" Prison Ministry Group. Page Memorial gave me theopportunities both to serve God and to grow in the faith.

There are of course some other very special memories of Page Memorial in myheart .....my baptism and confirmation, my first sermon, my dad's funeral and pinning theUMW life pin on my mother.

The love of the people of Page, their extraordinary vision for ministry and mission, theirjoy for children and young people were all very evident in my years at Page. And ofcourse their generosity must be noted. The Scholarship that I received from the SeymourFund helped me to obtain a solid and outstanding education. Page Memorial is morethan a church, it is a family. In so many ways, my life was shaped by the people of andmy experiences in Page Memorial And clearly my vision of ministry was formed fromthose experiences.

Because Page Memorial has touched my life in so many ways, she will always hold aspecial place in my heart. My prayer is that she will continue to touch hearts andinfluence lives the way she did mine. I will always be grateful to the people of PageMemorial for all that they have done for me and for the way they so positively influencedmy life. I will always cherish the years I spent growing up at Page Memorial.

The Shepherd knowswhat pastures are best for His sheep,and they must not question nor doubt,

but trustingly follow Him.H. W Smith

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GROWING UP IN PAGE CHURCH

Michael G. Garrison

Sundayis the golden clasp

that binds together the volume of the week.Longfellow

Remembering my childhood at Page immediately brings to mind the one person mostresponsible for my involvement there. My mother, Evelyn Garrison, made sure that, rainor shine, come Sunday mornings, my brothers and I were fed, dressed and at SundaySchool. I remember the long chain of perfect attendance pins that draped from mybrother Garrie's coat, and how proud Mother was whenever we received one. 1 rememberwhen she taught my Sunday School class with Barbara Simmons, Dennis Sheppard,Johnny Sutter, John Tullock, Marty Hill and myself, all of whom, spent 12 years ofschool together before going our separate ways.

Watching my son, Jeffrey, as an Acolyte, reminds me of when l, too, lit the candles. Iwonder if my mother was as nervous the first time I lit them? I was very pleased when Iheard that our church bell was restored and that it may ring again before church someday.I remember how thrilled I was when it was my turn to ring the bell. To a young boy, itwas "down right fun."

One of the things I remember most about Page was the way adults took time to speak tothe children. And now, people like Clement Faircloth talk to my sons and make meproud to be a member of Page church. These people are role models whom I looked upto then and still do today.

My fondest memory of all was being able to sit beside my grandfather in the choir. Withmy mother singing too, that made three generations. I tried so hard, but in vain, to blendin with his deep bass voice. I always looked up to and admired him.

In the early '70's, we sang a song with a line that went: "The three men I admire most, theFather, Son and Holy Ghost." Well, I have to add one more name to that list.. ...mygrandfather, Adam Garner. He started a family tradition over 60 years ago that I intendto carry on with my sons today.

In recalling my childhood at Page, I have written about my immediate family. But, this iswhat Page means to me ...an extension of my own family ....my Christian Family.

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THE BOBBITT FAMILY

Margaret Tarlton

Nellie and Adolphus Bobbitt and their seven children; Walter, Talmage, Margaret,David, Kathrene, Sue and Carol joined Page Memorial Methodist Church in the early1930's. They previously had been members of the small Ashley Heights MethodistChurch. Conference decided to discontinue that church so the family moved theirmembership to Page. Today, four of those children continue to be active members -Talmage and his wife, Audrey; Margaret B. Tarlton, David and his wife Bobbie; Caroland her husband Walter Wright.

A REMEMBRANCE

Norfleet Pleasantsas told to

Criss Shields

Before the organ was converted to an electric pump, my older brother, Linwood, took histurn pumping on Sunday morning. Mother had a buzzer so she could let him know it wastime to have music. As I was younger, she didn't trust me for Sunday morning and myjob was to pump on Saturday for her to practice

A REMEMBRANCE

Alliene Creelas told to

Criss Shields

My late husband, Melvin, said that he was taking his turn to pump the organ one Sundaymorning and when Mrs. Pleasants buzzed him to start, he didn't hear her. He had fallenasleep.

Kathy Smith

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CHURCH BAZAAR

Mrs. Mabel CummingJune 1989

Years ago, Miss Mary Page organized the "Improvement Guild" which later became theBazaar. The original committee was composed of Mrs. Susie Pleasants (Chairman), Mrs.Katie Gwyn, Mrs. George Martin, Sr., Mrs. Carrie Lockey and Miss Mary Page. Laterseveral more were added to the committee. This committee would involve others to beresponsible for the various jobs when Bazaar time came which was the second Thursdayin November.

At first, we just served lunch and dinner in the large room in the first church schoolbuilding, then crafts were added and the big room was not large enough, so we used thewhole building (the two largest rooms for the meals and the other rooms for cannedgoods, shrubbery and crafts.) By now everyone in the church was either working at thebazaar or cooking at home. People like Mrs. Mary Hooper, Mrs. John Greer, Mrs. AC.Gamer and Mable Cummings, would work days ahead planning and cooking and gettingready. After a long time serving as chairman, Mrs. Pleasants resigned and Mrs. SueSwaringen became the second chairman. She served until it just got to be too much andthe women decided not to sponsor it any longer. By this time, we had been in the newbuilding for several years and we were just tired. The men decided it was too good to letgo so they took over and have been sponsoring it ever since, but of course, they can't do itby themselves ....the women are still working.

On Earth, or even in Beaven,there can be no greater joy than realizing

that My Will is being accomplishedin the little as well as the big things.

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MISSION WORK TEAMS

Through the generosity and insight of a man named G. C. Seymour, I was fortunateenough to serve on two United Methodist Volunteers in Mission (UMVlM) YouthWorkteams (Costa Rica in 1985 and Mexico in 1987). I have fond memories of bothexperiences because they changed my life in very positive ways.

Both country's landscapes were overflowing with tropical flowers and bountifulvegetation, yet in the midst of such lush land something else stood out as a brightersymbol of God's wonderful creativity - the people!

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I was not fluent in Spanish; however, communication never posed a barrier. Thegenerosity, friendship, human kindness and displays of Christian love touched my heartand soul in a way too beautiful and overwhelming for words to explain.

My teammates and r were sent to provide physical man power to help improve thestructural layouts of the churches and grounds. They were indeed physically exhaustingweeks, but what remains as stronger memories are an overwhelming realization of theuniversality of Christianity and how powerfully the love of God shines through hischildren.

If it had not been for the financial support of the Seymour Fund and the Christianphilosophy about life I was raised with as a young child at Page Memorial UnitedMethodist Church, I would never have fathomed or ventured on such a path.

The foresight and philanthropic philosophy of Mr. G. C. Seymour allowed me to, in somesmall way, become a true disciple of God's love and compassion for my fellow humanbeings.

. .. and teach all nations ...

HULDAH BROWN SEYMOUR TRUST

Roy Smith

Mr. G. C. Seymour's thriving business selling food, drink and renting pillows on themany daily trains running north and south, led him to the beginning of his soft drinkbusiness in Aberdeen in 1913, so began his successful Aberdeen Coca Cola BottlingCompany.

Being a thrifty, level-headed business man, Mr. Seymour invested his money wisely. Heand his wife, Huldah Brown Seymour, having no children of their own, helped educatemany other persons. Today, that legacy continues through the Huldah Brown SeymourMemorial Trust, set up in 1955 and administered by the Trustees of Page MemorialUnited Methodist Church. This perpetual trust is expended half for education ofministers, missionaries, and others in Christian Education and half for local and foreignmISSIOns.

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The Trust was valued in 1955 at $200,000 plus, and its value today far exceeds thatfigure. The trust agreement allows distribution by the Trustees with the advice from anAdvisory Committee of this church. Each year, the trust expends its yearly earned monieson February 14, Valentines Day, which was Huldah Brown Seymour's birthday.

Mr. and Mrs. Seymour came to Aberdeen in 1913 and joined Page Memorial UnitedMethodist Church where they remained in faithful attendance, service and support untilthe time of their deaths. Mr. Seymour's unselfish help, so freely given in his lifetime,continues to live on through the lives of the many people who benefit from his generosityand will continue to do so through this Perpetual Trust Fund.

Silently the work of the Spiritis done.

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WORKING WITH THE BAZAAR

Gary Frick

My first experience working with the Bazaar serving as chairman in 1984. Mrs. CarrieLockey and Martha Robbins contacted the church ladies to help cook the various fooditems for a menu of turkey, dressing, green beans and locally grown sweet potatoes.Talmage and Audrey Bobbitt arranged for our supply of turkeys through Davenport'sGalaxy. Church members cooked them and returned them to the kitchen to be sliced by"Bobbitt's Crew."

Approximately 500eat-inltake-out meals were served from the Fellowship Hall Kitchen.The Christopher family was our main kitchen crew. Sheriff Wise was on the serving linepushing the "Good Methodist Gravy." Marge Gschwind, Mae Dowless and KayMcGugan sliced our delicious cakes. This bazaar also included a White Elephant room,Sweet Shop, Crafts and Woodworks.

During Rev. Don Phillips tenure, The Crafty Ladies was organized and began meetingregularly each week to create handmade items. Don took a group of the Methodist Mento the Nashville, NC church to obtain more woodcraft ideas. Glenn Fogleman, beganmaking wind chimes and wooden clocks for sale in the Men's Craft Room.

After my three years ('84-'85) as Chairman, the following people served as Chairman orCo-Chairman: Bob Hyatt, Audrey Bobbitt, Floyd Dunn, Mac Mills and myself again in'93 and '94 assisted by Ruth Guion.

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This time the members baked turkeys and cakes, while the vegetables and dressing werecooked in the church kitchen. Cooking crew was the Dunn Family, Mac Mills, JerryWilson and Thomas Simpson.

Total meals served in '93 and '94 were approximately 2,100 and 1,800 respectively. OurWhite Elephant items became so numerous in '93 that the Bazaar Committee decided todrop it and hold a spring yard sale instead.

There have been other changes such as shifting our carry-out meals over to the Children'sBuilding. However, we still hold the Bazaar on the second Thursday in November.Revenues have been used for various church projects over the years. The past two years,30% has been designated for local missions.

The Bazaar is a church-wide supported function almost like an "old fashioned reunion"with former pastors and members returning to visit and enjoy a delicious meal. For thisvery special day, many members take the day off from work to help make the Bazaar asuccess, while others come in after their workday to contribute help where needed.

My followers must be channelsthrough which My gifts can pass to others.

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Crafty Ladies

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Mary Fogleman

-Bazaar 1988-Mr. Glenn Fogleman

displays the beautiful, hand craftedwooden clocks and chimes the he was famous for.

CUBAN REFUGEES SPONSORED

While Dr. Pullman was the minister, the church voted to sponsor four Cuban Refugees.The arrangements were made and they arrived here in the summer of 1980.

Plans had been made for them to live in a mobile home in a near-by park. Severalmembers helped to make everything ready and comfortable for them. Employment wasprovided in a local textile plant where they made real good employees.

After some time, two moved on to New Jersey and the other two are still in this area anddoing well.

"Do unto others ... "

5]

THE FREEMAN FUND

Roy Smith

Earl O. Freeman, founder of Sandhill Telephone Company, was a quiet, efficient anddedicated man. He served his civic duties by being on the town board and later as Mayorof Aberdeen. Though Mr. Freeman was not a member of Page Memorial UnitedMethodist Church, his wife, Grace, was a long time active member and they bothenjoyed and appreciated the beauty of this church.

Since the church is in the center of town, Mr. Freeman set up a perpetual fund for themaintenance and care of the church buildings, parsonage and grounds. The trustees havethe responsibility to invest and disburse this fund wisely so that it remains perpetual.

Through the years, the Freeman Fund has aided in the completion of many maintenanceneeds such as: roofing, exterior painting, storm windows, rewiring, heating, air-conditioning and landscaping.

We are grateful to E.O. and Grace Freeman for their foresight, caring and appreciationfor the beauty of Page Memorial Church.

Love grows by giving.Copied

"VISION 2000"YOUR CHURCH, MY CHURCH AND GOD'S CHURCH

Julian Warren ScottPastor of Page Memorial United Methodist Church

Today's world is an exciting one and a challenging one. We are making great strides inscience, medicine, and technologies. Reminders of these facts are all around us in thepress, radio, television, talking computers and the space age.

Less dramatic, perhaps, but equally challenging and far more vital are the possibilities ofgiant steps in the field of human relations and moral development. Your church and allchurches everywhere stand as a bright light in a dark world.

Technical development can depend on government subsidies or foundation gifts forsupport. Vast sums are spent annually in scientific research.

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The church has far greater power behind it - the power of God working through humanhearts. Each of us is the Church, and we can take steps ahead in direct proportion to thedegree to which we avail ourselves of God's power.

Your time and talents are needed along with your money if our church remains aneffective influence in this community. We are grateful to God for our church memberswho have responded to His invitation by making a commitment of their lives to Him, andwe pray that the months and years ahead may be quite meaningful to them as theycontinue to grow through work, worship, and witness as we move into the 21st century.

It is my sincere hope and prayer that we who are related to Page Memorial UnitedMethodist Church in the year 2000, may have the noble characteristics and spirit of ourfounding fathers.

"We would be building; temples still undone O're crumbling walls their crossesscarcely lift; Waiting till love can raise the broken stone, And hearts creative bridge

the human rift; We would be building, Master, let Thy plan reveal the lifethat God would give to man."

Others have built the foundation on which we build. The heritage of those faithfulpeople of the past, challenges and inspires the present generation to respond with lives ofdedicated stewardship and build for the future on the foundation that has been laid. Youhave a great heritage. How fortunate to be associated with such tradition!

I am happy to be pastor of this great historic church and a part of its fellowship. May thememories of the past, the thanksgiving of the present, and the challenge of the futureinspire us in an act of dedication to build a new church adequate for the present and thefuture, for the glory of God and for the service of humanity. As we move into the 21 stcentury, Jet us dream dreams and discover God's plan for our lives. On this foundationwe build, all other foundations are sinking sand.

r

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-CHURCH STAFF-

JULIAN W. SCOTTMINISTER

MARILYN HUMPHREYSSECRETARY

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PAULETTE KAPPMUSIC DIRECTOR

BENNIE ROSSSEXTON

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-SPECIAL SERVICES-

SERVICE OF DEDICATIONThe Burning of the Mortgage

The Act of Dedication of the Educational BuildingSunday, May 6, 1956

Almighty God, our heavenly Father, whose eyes are ever toward the righteous, and whose ears are everopen unto their cry; generously accept, we pray thee, this building which we now dedicate to thee, to theyservice, and to the glory, that in it love and wisdom may unite to bring you and strength to those who gatherhere; and we beseech thee, receive us thy servants who here dedicate ourselves anew to thee and to thoseoffices of fellowship and good will in which thou art well pleased. Grant that those who came here may becheered and quickened in mind and body, and that they may be stirred to serve thee wisely and steadfastly;and the praise shall be thine forever; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. Bishop W. W. Peele

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATIONPage Memorial United Methodist Church

October 8,1989

With deep reverence, we come to Three, 0 God, our Heavenly Father, through Thy Son, our Savior, JesusChrist. We bring to Thee hearts filled with gratitude and praise for the way Thou hast raised up and blessedThy church in this community. This is not our church; it is Thy church. We are Thy people. We are not ourown, for we have been bought with a price - the precious blood of Christ.

Thou art the spiritual foundation of this church, the very spiritual life of this Church, the eternal hope of thischurch. Thy word is inspiration, comfort, conviction, reproof, meat, salvation and sanctification to us. Thischurch has been fully dedicated to Thee. May the Administrative Council and the members ever keep it so.Julian Scott

Let us thank God for our heritage which we this day celebrate.One hundred years of Christian ministry is a gift from tbe bands of God.

Let us thank God for tbose who stood in days gone by and worked witb handsand strength that God's glory might be known through this church.

Let us thank God for those who serve todayas teachers, leaders and workers of every kind.

Let us praise God for all obscure and humble saintswho have made life sweeter and gentler.

We praise thee, 0 God, for tbe image ofCbrist in ordinary people,their forebearance and tbeir generosity.

Glory be to Thee, 0 Lord, for all humble and holy personsin whom the loveliness of our Savior Christ is present.

God's glory is evident in the history we sbare.Tbroughout the years God has worked in and through

the humble folk of this church.Now, our Lord, work through us and allow that we,

too, shall contribute to this heritage.Tbat when we hear the Master speak, His words may be.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant.

A BENEDICTION

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MUSICThe Emotion of the Soul

December 1, 1991THE DEDICA TlON OF ORGAN

Through the combined efforts of all Page Memorial UMC members, we have a new Schantz Pipe Organ.There have been many gifts and memorial gifts too numerous to mention. Generous donations have comefrom the Bazaars. It is a dream come true.

The old organ was seventy years old and was often in need of repair with parts no longer available. On hereight-fifth birthday, Mrs. Susie Pleasants (Mrs. E.L.) wrote this for our church notes.

"During the years between 1910 and 1914, I played the little foot -pedaled organ in the old church. Then inJuly 1914, I found myself organist in a beautiful new church with a lovely Estey Pipe Organ. Being able toserve my church from 1910 until 1955 was a privilege for which I shall always be thankful." It was thememorial gifts following her death in April, 1975 that started the Organ Fund.

When Mrs. Pleasants retired in 1955, she was very supportive to Miss June Melvin, herself an accomplishedorganist, who served from that time until 1989. Our present Minister of Music is Mrs. Paulette Kapp.Criss Shields

It is good to give thanks to the LordTo sing praises to thy name, 0 Most High;To declare thy steadfast love in the morning

and thy faithfulness by night,to the music of the lute and the harp,

to the melody of the lyre.For thou, 0 Lord, hast made me glad by thy work;

At the works of thy hands I sing for joy.

"I have been through the famed Sherwood Forest, in England, where every blade ofgrass was in place, and no twig or dead leaf was allowed to lie after it fell, andeverything was so perfect it looked like Fairyland. I have seen big trees in Californiaand the far West, and our own magnificent trees in Nantahala Gorge. But, when Iremember the unbroken forests of pine trees that grew here where Aberdeen now is,I know I never saw anything more impressive. They seemed to lift themselves up toHeaven and to lift our thoughts and hearts with them. While there were no man-made hands, and even if there were no audible words, something within us cried out,'Bless the Lord, Oh my soul, for all His wonderful works, and for His love to thechildren of men.' "

"I have told you of the tearsI shed because I had to come here;

but, now I would feel much more averse to going awaythan I did to coming

andI hope to stay right here until I go Home

by way of Bethesda. "Mary E. Page