 |
Jolliff United Methodist Church |
EXCERPTS FROM JOLLIFF'S JOURNAL by Kathlyn Baker 1773 It makes me proud that this handful of individuals have banded together in thy Lord's name declaring themselves a community of faith known as the third Methodist Society. Oh, they may seem a rag-tag group comprised of mostly hard working farmers but each has a good heart and a strong desire to learn about the Bible and the teachings of their founder, John Wesley. Not only have I been given a name but I have a purpose to become an "institution of God" to this area that they call Jolliff (gratefully named after the local landowner James Jolliff). 1798 Today they laid the cornerstone for the log structure they call a church. They are working not only with stone and wood but with love in their hearts to create a lasting church where they can meet and worship the Lord. One has taken such care with his craftsmanship that he has carved his name in what will be my rafters. Whilst the men and boys fashion lumber into boards the women scurry around bringing them beverage and food hot from the hearth. It gladdens the spirit to see the people working together. 1867 Hard times are upon us. This outrage called the Civil War has torn families apart and is bringing death and destruction to our very door. They say the war is to free the slaves, and if that is the case I must be ashamed for in this very building the coloreds must sit in the balcony and not with the rest of the congregation. When will they ever learn that all men should be treated kindly? Did Jesus not eat with sinners, prostitutes and tax collectors? Lord God, end this time of trial and mend our torn hearts. 1921 Fire! Though it was deemed an accident, a windy day and embers from a neglected fire in the stove spread quickly, resulting in the sad, smoldering remains of what once was my sanctuary. But out of the darkness comes the dawning and again my flock has decided to rebuild me with improvements. The balcony has been removed and center vestibule added. I long to be complete and with my congregation once more. While I was being rebuilt they worshiped in the one-room schoolhouse down the road and I have been lonely without them. 1940 These last few years I've had occasion to shine! Not only have my oil lamp chandeliers been replaced with electric lights but couples flock to the altar illuminating the church with their love. I do not miss the soft, warm glow of the oil lamps as it has been replaced by the glow in their eyes. I too know how it feels to be a bride, the bride of Christ. One of my dedicated parishioners trudges through all types of weather to pump the organ each week and, since the congregation can now see their hymnals better under the electric lights we joyously send songs of praise winging to the Pearly Gates. 1955 The youngsters are growing up. Awhile back we had occasion to have an old fashioned baptism, a full immersion in the creek nearby. Four of the children were impressed with Jesus' baptism and wanted to duplicate the experience, however, I don't recall the Bible telling that Jesus dove underwater and swam to shore during his baptism. Nevertheless, like our Heavenly Father we were well pleased with our earthly sons. To accommodate our growing family we added the south wing of Sunday Schools in 1949 and broke ground for our educational building in 1955. 1976 While the Bicentennial of our country is all the rage it seems less fashionable to honor the traditional church. Nevertheless, my small but devoted assembly is working diligently to remodel my sanctuary. The bright stained glass has been replaced, ceiling lowered, paneling and carpet installed. The sounds of hammering, sawing and laughter from an occasional prank played by one of our jokesters lightens my heart. Once more they are working together. 1984 Tis springtime and we have witnessed the most joyous Easter! This energetic pastor has filled the church with butterflies, flowers and song. At the conclusion of the service hundreds of white balloons were released with shouts of "He is Risen!" Christ is risen indeed. The new steeple was the perfect backdrop for white balloons floating skyward. 1996 Though I am getting on in years my congregation still cares enough to spruce me up for this homecoming. They've painted, carpeted, installed a handicapped bathroom and put in new electrical wiring. What a celebration this will be to have my loved ones, my family coming home! I have stood in this spot over 200 years but size and longevity are not paramount in life. What is important is to be close with God and our fellow man. I am your church, together we are more than what we are individually. We are the future and the past. We are the fulfillment of God's love. Amen. 2008 They are breaking ground to add on to me! I will receive a new welcome center, social hall, kitchen, handicapped bathrooms, new classrooms and offices! |