Don MacFarlane, a committee member with the Bedeque Baptist Church’s 190th anniversary, holds a past and present photo of the church, which was built in 1826. The celebrations take place for anyone to attend on July 30 and 31.
For the last two years, MacFarlane has been part of the anniversary committee for the church, which will celebrate 190 years with events on July 30 and 31.
MacFarlane explained the actual anniversary date is Oct. 28, but summertime worked best for the handful of past ministers who are travelling to the Island for the special weekend.
“We’re calling it a homecoming,” he said.
When asked to describe the process of organizing this milestone, MacFarlane said it has been challenging.
“A lot of work goes into this, but we have a good team working with us and everyone has input.”
As part of the celebrations, Sharon Leighton wrote “Growing: Our Story, Our Strength”, a historical account of the Bedeque Baptist Church for the 190th anniversary, with a book presentation taking place Saturday.
There will also be live music, refreshments, a surprise guest to cut the anniversary cake, and scripture readings. Everyone is invited to attend the events at the church.
“One hundred and ninety years is really special,” said MacFarlane. “I don’t know of too many churches around that have lasted this long.”
He has heard rave reviews about the church that was built in 1826.
“People have come in and said, ‘It’s such a beautiful church. It’s so warm when you come in, it’s inviting, and the people are so friendly.’”
MacFarlane said he and other committee members celebrated 150 and 175 years, and they figured they might not be around when the church celebrates two centuries.
“There are a lot of older people going to the church and there are some younger people coming in now, which is good,” he said. “That’s what we need.”
