CONWAY — The United Congregational Church of Conway is starting its next quarter century the same way it started its first — with no building, in Pumpkin Hollow.
“They grew to 400 members, so we have a goal ahead of us,” the Rev. Candice Ashenden told those gathered near the 1768 building Saturday to celebrate the congregation’s 250 years.
Due to damage sustained in a February 2017 tornado, the church building is going to be demolished and a new one built. Still, congregants tried to keep the mood upbeat on Saturday. Free ice cream was available for people sitting in lawn chairs, listening to music by the Athol Congregational Church’s band.
After the performance, speakers offered greetings and congratulations.
Kelly Gallagher spoke of historic moments from the same time the church was established, such as the first circus and the creation of mustard and the beginnings of the Revolutionary War.
“The world was sort of in an uproar and there was you. Do you think if they could see what was ahead of them, they would have believed it?” Gallagher said. “Change is nothing new to this church and you all are the living reality that we endure and we go on, because there is something deep in our core that keeps us going that is far beyond all these things like cars and buildings and wars and struggles.”
While State Rep. Steve Kulik, D-Worthington, was unable to attend, he sent a letter, which was read by parishioner Marcus McLaurin.
He wrote he was proud such a strong group of people resides in his district and he looks forward to the church rebuilding process.
“I cannot wait to see this congregation, led by the wonderful Rev. Candi, rebuild and continue to contribute positivity and light to the community of Conway and beyond,” Kulik wrote.
Selectboard Chairman John O’Rourke said while the tornado might have damaged the building, the church will continue.
“The tornado of February ’17 may have dealt the final blow to the church building, but it has not weakened the spirit of this congregation. It is a sad day because that beautiful edifice up on the hill will soon end its place as a very important symbol for Conway. However, as beautiful as this building was, it is only a building.”
Along with the music played by the band, a song featuring alternative lyrics for “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen written by Christi Ashenden was sung by Al Benjamin, with the help of the crowd during the chorus.
While there were some somber moments, O’Rourke said he wanted to remind the group of the silver lining.
“This is a day to start a new chapter in this history of the church, a day to thank God of all the blessings the future holds,” O’Rourke said.