The Flash! – October 2, 2014
This week we welcome special Flash! feature writer: historian, harrier, novelist, and Ruling Elder: Hillary Mohaupt.
One hundred years ago, in October 1914, Hanover commemorated a century of Christian education with a month of special services, complete with hymns bearing titles like “Dear Hanover We Love Thee!” and “Song to Hanover.”
In 1939, Hanover marked the 125th anniversary of its Sunday School with days of festivities, including a parade at the National Sunday School Convention in Washington, DC, and the dedication of a banner to acknowledge Hanover’s place among the oldest continuous Sunday Schools in the United States.
In 1974, Hanover marked the 160th anniversary with a little less fanfare, but with no less recognition. In a lengthy article in the News Journal, reporter Eileen Spraker wrote that Hanover’s Sunday School planted Sunday schools around Wilmington, which helped grow other Presbyterian Churches, like West and Olivet. In 1974, those blossoming churches helped Hanover celebrate the occasion with balloons and more banners.
Forty years later, we mark the bicentennial of Hanover’s Sunday School program. You may have read the article that appeared in The News Journal earlier this year; if you haven’t, click here to read it. Born from a partnership between Hanover and the Female Harmony Society, our Christian education program has survived two hundred years of history. On October 18 and October 19 not only will we remember this history but we will also celebrate our shared future together. The celebration on October 18 will include a keynote address by historian Anne Boylan, the presentation of a flag that has flown over the US Capitol building, and music by Michael Hunter. The next morning we’ll be joined in worship by the Cathedral Choir. The weekend will honor the diversity, hospitality and justice that still makes us say, if not sing, “Dear Hanover we love thee!”
This celebration is, of course, open to all. Click here to RSVP online, mail in the RSVP card that arrived with your invitation, or speak with our Church Administrator, Matthia McCracken.
If you need assistance with either transportation or the cost of the ticket, please talk with Pastor Andy or Matthia.