Congregational Church - 50th Anniversary

A sketch of the frontage

Open 50 Years - Rushden  Congregational - Building Anniversary     

The Rev. A. M. Lewin, of Northampton, who preached at Rushden Congregational Church on Sunday evening, referred to  the  fact that the present building was opened on Thursday, June 7th, 1894, and has it therefore been in use for 50 years. He congratulated those who have been loyal to the cause and expressed the hope that the church would find opportunity and encouragement for much good service in the future.

A Congregational Church was founded at Rushden in 1888, occupying the present school building, which was erected a few years previously as a Union Church. The Rev. A. C. Smith was the first pastor, followed by the Rev. M. E. Parkin, who was minister when the new church was opened. Building operations were begun in September 1893, and the memorial stones were laid on November 8th.

At the opening service a sermon was preached by the Rev. J. Guiness Rogers, who lectured in the evening on "The Church of the people and for the people." The amount realised during the day was £71. It was announced that of £1,800 needed £1,000 had been given or promised.

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