Home Beliefs Ministries Directions History SAMC
 
HISTORY

 

In 1964, the Homer Miller family from Ohio moved into the Barnwell, SC area. One year later the Bill Hochstetler family came. They worshipped with various groups until May 10, 1970, when Homer, Fannie, and Doris Miller became members at the Hephzibah Mennonite Church in Georgia. The Hochstetlers also began attending services there.

During the year of 1972 the church building that had been used by Ashley Baptist Church was made available for $1.00 providing it was used for church services. This building was purchased by the Southeastern Mennonite Mission Board. Brethren and sisters from Georgia helped the Millers and Hochstetlers clean and remodel the building. A total of $3,300.00 was spent on this project. On the first Sunday of January in 1973, the first services were held under the direction of the Mission Board.

The Lloyd Oberholtzer family from Waynesboro, Georgia, came each Sunday to help with the Sunday School. The ordained brethren, Earl Hartzler, Earl Barnhart, and Edgar Strite from the Hephzibah and Burkeland congregations took turns in bringing the morning message. The Barnwell Mennonite Church had begun.

The beginning of Barnwell Mennonite Church coincided with the beginning of the Mission News, the official newletter of Southeastern Mennonite Conference. Mission News was later renamed Life Lines.

1973

In March, 1973, James and Vada Shank from Harrisonburg, Virginia, moved into Barnwell. He was appointed by the mission board to serve as pastor until a permanent pastor could be supplied. At the same time the Sam Petersheim family moved into the area making South Carolina their home.

On April 8, 1973, a dedication service was held at the church building which had become known as the Barnwell Mennonite Church. During the communion service held at Hephzibah on April 22, 1973, Bill and Ruby Hochstetler were received into our fellowship and became members of Barnwell.

The Howard Brubaker family moved to South Carolina on August 15,1973. Howard was appointed by the Mission board to serve as pastor with bishop oversight over the southern churches of the Southeastern Conference. On the same day the Enos Heatwole family came with Enos having deacon responsibilities in the church.

During the summer a Bible School was held each Wednesday evening for a number of weeks. Evening services were held each Sunday evening except the first Sunday. Each family planned the programs for a period of two months. The first Sunday evening program recorded (March 25, 1973) involved the following.

Devotions Harley Hochstetler
Childrens Class Vada Shank
Topic Evangelism: The Message, The Sphere, & The Means by Homer Miller
Song Leader Sam Petersheim
Moderator Sam Petersheim
On Sunday, the 8th of April, the Southeastern Mission Board planned a special service held at 2:00 PM. This service included a Children's meeting by James Heatwole, a presentation by D. I. Ross and a message by Lloyd Horst.
The fifth Sunday evening was always a singing with a good number of visitors from Georgia and elsewhere. Services were held one Sunday afternoon a month at the Allendale Jail with Bill Hochstetler being responsible for the service. Homer Miller was responsible for the service at Barnwell Jail that were held at 6:30 one Wednesday evening a month. The first Sunday of October was set as the time for our yearly communion service.
On September 9, 1973, the congregation fellowshipped together at the Barnwell Park. This was the last Sunday that James and Vada Shank were present before returning to Virginia. There was expression of appreciation for their leadership and ministry in starting the congregational program.
A Christian Life conference was held November 3 and 4, 1973, with James Goering speaking on "The Meaning of the Christian Life."
Our average attendance for the year was 34.
Revival meetings were held February 17-24 and were led by Norman Bechtel. There was good interest shown by the community folks. Phyllis Brubaker accepted Christ during these meetings.
The church family had an evening of food and fellowship at Bill Hochstetlers in June. On the agenda was a corn roast and a farewell program for Doris Miller who was leaving for a term of service at Faith Mission Home in Virginia.
Summer Bible School was held the first two weeks of June with Howard Brubaker serving as superintendent. There was an average attendance of 68.
A much appreciated program of sacred music was given by the Shenandoah Valley Chorus on August 10. The congregation was unable to practice adequate lodging for the forty member group so the Calvary Mennonite Church at Blackville & community people opened their homes and helped to provide accommodation.
Our church family grew again in September when Wendell and Naomi Heatwole came to make this their home.
Special speakers this year included John Risser, Nelson Heatwole, Charles Heatwole, Ira Headings, Paul Good and James Shank.
At our communion service in October, Phyllis Brubaker was baptized and received into church fellowship.
In November of 1974 Aden and Ruby Miller and their three small children moved here from Ohio.
A special service was held jointly with the Calvary Mennonite congregation to hear a musical program presented by the Mountain Anthems of Grantsville, MD and by the children from the Faith Mission Home.
Our Revival meetings were held on January 19-26 with Lloyd Hartzler serving as our evangelist.
A spring communion service was held with the Hephzibah and Burkeland congregations in Georgia at the Burkeland church on good Friday evening.
We participated with other local churches on a sunrise service on Easter morning in the Barnwell Park by the lake.
On May 4, Aden and Ruby Miller became members by a church better form the Sharon Congregation at Sugar Creek, Ohio.
The average attendance of our summer Bible School was 69.7. Menno J. Brunk for Dayton, Va. taught the book of Revelation to the adult class. His wife, Vada had a talk for the children after their class period.
Ruthie Heatwole accepted Christ as her Saviour during our revival meetings and was baptized and received into church fellowship on July 6.
Bill and Lelia Platt from Govan were received into church fellowship on November 30. Lelia was received by water baptism and Bill on confession of faith.
Katrina Ruth Petersheim was born on December 5. Her parents are Sam and Sarah Petersheim.
The Sunday before Christmas in the afternoon, our congregation met at a home for the aged in Barnwell to bring a bit of Christmas cheer. On Tuesday evening we sang carols at the jail and a number of homes. It as Christmas Day evening when we had a service at the church. The program was entitled "What the Birth of Christ Meant to the Shepherds, Herod, Anna, and the Wise Men."
Revivals for 1976 were held February 1-8 by David Stutzman from Sugar Creek, Ohio. There were no first time confessions but attendance was good and the congregation was blessed.
A fellowship dinner in honor of the Enos Martin family was held February 22, after the morning worship service. This family had attended our services for several years while they lived and worked on their farm near Ehrhardt, SC. and were now planning to move.
Harley Hochstetler accepted Christ as his Saviour in his home and was under instruction several months prior to his baptism on March 21.
Our spring communion was held on Good Friday evening April 16. This was a conjoint service with the three Georgia churches and Barnwell participating.
This year we sponsored a Youth Conference held at the Barnwell State Park. The youth form the three Georgia churches and a car load from Virginia were present for the following programs on April 17.
Allen and Lucinda Schrock moved here from Virginia on May 10 bringing the total number of families worshipping at Barnwell to nine.
Sunday afternoon, May 11, the chorus from Magnolia Mennonite Church, Macon, Mississippi rendered a program of sacred music.
Summer Bible School was held June 14-25 from 7:15 to 8:45 in the evenings with Enos Heatwole as superintendent and Sam Petersheim assisting. The average attendance was 94.
The new Sunday School year began September 1976. Wendell Heatwole was appointed Superintendent. During this Sunday School year the Sunday School teachers were changed around each quarter instead of one teaching all year. This added variety and everyone seemed the like this plan.
It was decided that the church would provide transportation for school children going to Calvary Christian School. To begin with Wendell Heatwole's car was used with Lelia Platt as driver. This was then changed with the various persons driving their own vehicles.
We decided to take and offering once a month for Mike and Mary Lou Jones who are in mission work in South America.
On November 6th the Sharon Chorus from Holmes County, Ohio gave an inspirational program of music. They were served a carry-in supper at Aden Millers and stayed in the various homes from the congregation overnight. We were glad they could come.
Our congregation experienced it's first death when William (Billy) Hochstetler Jr., youngest son of bill and Ruby Hochstetler died on December 4, 1976. He was 1 year and 3 days old. Funeral services were held at the church with burial at the grounds just purchased as a future building site for an new church.
The Lord seemed to really be leading in the timing of purchasing land for a new church. It was decided close to the beginning of the Sunday School year that we so need a new church building with cemetery grounds, along with other reasons. The land had just been purchased but we didn't hold the title when little Billy died.
On January 23 we received such a cold reception at church that we decided to have church at Homer Millers. At the January conference in Georgia permission was given to prepare plans for a new church building to be submitted at the July Conference in Virginia. The plans were approved and we were thankful for the Lord's leading. A building committee was formed with all the heads of families as members. Work began on the new church building in October.
On February 12 the men of the congregation met at the property bought as the future site for our church and did a lot of cleaning up.
We were blessed with a series of revival meetings on February 13 - 20. John Risser was evangelist.
Our congregation has another first among its members - an engagement. The later part of April Daryl Brubaker and Sharon Weaver from Pennsylvania announced their engagement.
Spring communion was at Hephzibah Mennonite Church on Good Friday evening. Most of the families from our congregation went.
Summer Bible School began June 13 and continued through the 24th. Teachers were all from this area for the first year. Homer Miller was the superintendent with an average attendance of 120.
Wendell Heatwole experienced a painful mishap when a silage board fell off the top of the truck, hitting him in the back of the head, which in turn, knocked his face against the truck bed. With an eye bandage over one eye he was able to attend prayer meeting on July 6th.
In September of 1977 the Sunday School was reorganized. Bill Hochstetler was elected superintendent.
A weekend in September a Bible Conference was held. The speaker for these meetings was Joe Hershberger from Honea Path, SC. Quite a number of families from Georgia helped to swell the crowd. On Sunday morning our record attendance of 69 was broken . The attendance was 75.
Daryl Brubaker, son of Howard and Miriam Brubaker and Sharon Weaver, daughter of Paul and Laura Weaver, Lititz, Pennsylvania, were married September 24 at Millport Mennonite Church.
Following this wedding, Carl Heatwole left for a year of service with Northern Light Gospel Mission at Red Lake, Ontario. Canada.
Homer and Fannie Miller bought property at Belton, SC and moved there in December 1977. Their daughter, Doris, and baby Amy moved along with them.
Little Rhett Douglas, son of Wendell and Naomi Hartzler Heatwole was born on February 6 and lived only a short while. A graveside service was held the next day at the Barnwell Church cemetery.
Revivals were from March 19 - 26 with Harry Schrock, Phoenix, Arizona serving as evangelist. On Saturday evening, the 25th, the chorus from Gladys, Virginia sang for forty minutes before the message.
Some from our congregation attended a sunrise service at Barnwell Park Easter Sunday morning. The chorus from Honea Path, South Carolina furnished the special music.
Sharon Weaver Brubaker was received into our fellowship by church letter May 21, l978.
John Paul and Catherine Campbell from Dayton, Virginia moved here to work on Wendell Heatwole's dairy farm on April 28, 1978.
The annual Summer Bible School with Sam Petersheim serving as superintendent was held from June 5 - 16. Average attendance was 125.
July 16, l978 Ann Marie Heatwole, Steven Brubaker, David and Vernon Hochstetler accepted Christ as their Savior at our last revival meetings and were baptized today.
Sam Petersheims sold their property and they with their children, Michael and Katrina left here July 29, l978 for their new home near Kingston, Idaho.
From the original 38 acres the church purchased from Mrs. O. B. Grubbs, the church authorized the sale of 14 acres west of the church building to Sam Gehman on February 17, 1978. They also authorized the sale of 9 acres east of the church building to Aden Miller on March 6, 1978.
Danny Hege from Shippensburg, Pennsylvania has been living with Allen Schrocks since March and works for Bill Hochstetler. He and Benita Heatwole made their engagement public on June 11, 1978.
The Abe Yoder family moved here in the spring from Mt. Eaton, Ohio. They live near Denmark and have been attending our Sunday services. Their married son, David and Sharon come some too. They rent Homer Millers house.
On the 22nd of August 1978 the Dale Dickersons moved here form Delaware. They live in a rented house near Govan but plan to build a house on property bought near the church.
Sunday the third of September Danny Hege was received as a member by church letter from the Rowe congregation.
Brother Fred Miller and his family came for special meetings over the August 26 - 27 the weekend. Brother Fred shared some helpful hints on teaching in the Sunday School and gave us challenging thoughts to help motivate class discussion.
On September 13, 1978, seven youth met at the church to practice songs for singing at jails, cottage meetings and at church. They reported an enjoyable time with anticipation of singing the following Sunday evening at church.
John Paul and Catherine Campbell have been appointed youth counselors to guide the youth in spiritual activities.
In September interested persons met together to discuss possibilities of beginning a high school. Various thoughts were brought in such as too few students to pay a teacher good wages, and the expenses of transportation. Some were concerned about the quality of education. Brother Enos says we must by all means educate so some will go on to college. He pointed out that our conference depends a good deal on those with college training. What are we going to do in the future if no one has proper training.
A committee was chosen to look further into the possibilities of a school in the future. Those appointed to the committee are: Enos Heatwole, Bill Hochstetler, and Aden Miller.
Danny Hege and Benita Heatwole were married on October 7. This was a big event for our small congregation and the first wedding at the Barnwell church.
Carl Heatwole who came from Red Lake, Ontario for the wedding showed slides and told of the work of Northern Light Gospel Mission where he has served for the past year. After being home for several weeks he returned for another term of service.
On November 8, Brother Harold Martin from Pennsylvania and Victor O'Valle from Guatemala were with us to share concerns and needs at the Mennonite Air Missions in Guatemala.
The churches of the south met at Barnwell for the Thanksgiving Service this year. After the service, fellowship was enjoyed around a carry in meal.
Lelia Platt was anointed with oil following our regular communion service on October 1. This was the first time Brother Howard or anyone in the congregation had observed the ordinance of anointing in a public setting. Brother Howard cautioned us that we not become caught up in the popular healing movement. However, he was certain God could work in this situation, providing we let God have His way.
Enos Heatwole spent 3 weeks teaching at Maranatha Bible School in Minnesota with a larger congregation and a growing number of youth. They met at various times to spend time singing together. They found this quite enjoyable and are anticipating regular activities in the future.
Revival Meetings were held the week of February 11 - February 18 by Chester Heatwole of Bridgewater, VA. After several nights, he was called back to VA for the funeral of his nephew, Jay Heatwole who was killed in a farm accident. Earl Hartzler completed the series of meetings. Special music was given one evening by a quartet from the Burkeland congregation and another evening a quartet from the Calvary Mennonite Fellowship.
On the first Sunday of April the congregation traveled to Hephzibah for a conjoint baptismal and communion service.
In April both the Aden Miller family and the Dale Dickerson family moved into new homes near the church.
On April 22, the congregation enjoyed a fellowship meal at Rivers Bridge State Park.
Summer Bible School began on June 11 and ended June 22 with an average attendance of 124.
On June 28 and 29 the Southeastern Mennonite Conference meeting was held at Barnwell. Hosting this was a big event for the congregation. The Georgia churches helped provide some of the food.
A number of babies were born this year. Zebulan Dale to David and Sharon Yoder. Benjamin Allen to Daryl and Sharon Brubaker. Annette Renee was born to J P and Catherine Campbell. Patrick Ian was born to Wendell and Naomi Heatwole.
In June Allen and Lucinda Schrock were appointed youth leaders for one year.
On October 7 at communion service, David and Sharon Yoder gave a testimony of their conversion and expressed a desire to join the church. They were baptized and received into church fellowship on November 18.
On Oct. 20 the Dale Dickerson and Wendell Heatwole families invited the church to a chicken barbecue supper at the Heatwole shop.
The congregation decided to move ahead to establish a Christian Day School. On October 31, a school board was elected composed of Aden Miller and Dale Dickerson Sr. along with Wendell Heatwole who was appointed from the ministry be the ordained brethren. On November 6, several of our farmers planted wheat on the church land for a school project.
Myron Brubaker and Jane Gochnauer were married at Rohrerstown, PA, on Thanksgiving Day. Many from our congregation attended the happy occasion.
Phyllis Brubaker and Ruthie Heatwole attended Maranatha Bible School for six weeks. Enos and Glennys Heatwole were there for three weeks with Enos teaching and Glennys helping in the kitchen.
Lee Kanagy from Fairfax, Virginia, preached an evangelistic message on Sunday evening. After the message, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Swartz from Ohio sand two songs. An invitation was given, and Michael Dickerson and Quincy Hochstetler responded to God's call.
Sunday morning, Feb. 3, Wilbur Hochstetler, Rosetta Hochstetler, and Anita Miller were baptized into church fellowship.
That evening, the congregation was invited to give the Sunday evening program in song at the Whispering Pines Church, Honea Path, South Carolina Several groups had special numbers, as well as the whole group singing. They provided delicious refreshments before the group started the two and a half hour drive back home. It was a nice time of learning to know each other better.
Revivals were held February 10-17 with Laverne Swartz from Michigan the evangelist.
The school board gave a report on March 3 which included a proposed handbook and possible teachers to start a school in the fall.
Spring communion was held with the Colquitt Congregation at Colquitt on Good Friday evening.
Brother Oscar Schrock from Blountstown, FL, brought an inspiring message on "Jesus as the greatest lover."
Carl Heatwole, who has been serving Northern Light Gospel Missions for 2 1/2 years, requested that his membership be moved there.
James and Esther Bange and their four children from Hanover, PA, moved into the community on June 4. They plan to build a house on the farm they bought.
The young people started a door to door track ministry in Denmark May 13.
Summer Bible School was held June 9-20 with an average attendance of 139. Allen Schrock was superintendent.
Several from the church attended the family camp in Southern Georgia, July 9-12. This was the first time the district sponsored a camp like this. Over 100 people were there and all reported it to be a worthwhile and enjoyable experience.
Fall council meeting was the 17th of August. After a message brought by Wendell Heatwole, each of the members were given an opportunity to give their testimony in open council. James, Esther, Dale and Daryl Bange and Jane Brubaker also shared their testimony as they planned to become members on communion Sunday.
August 31 was the fall communion service. Michael Dickerson and Quincy Hochstetler were baptized at this time also.
The Barnwell Christian School opened its doors for the first on September 2, with Aden and Ruby Miller as teachers. Phyllis Brubaker taught the first grade. There were 28 students. The school was located in the back room and upstairs of the church building.
Carl Heatwole and Grace Hochstetler were married at Red Lake, Ontario, on October 4. A number from the congregation were able to attend. Carl and Grace will make their home at Sandy Lake, Ontario.
It was Sunday evening, October 19th when Brother Howard read the letter from Southeastern Mennonite Mission Committee stating that Brother Wendell and Sister Naomi had accepted the Lord's call to serve Him in Puerto Rico with plans to leave in mid-February.
A weekend Bible Conference was held on October 31 - November 2 with James Goering preaching from the book of Revelations.
October 31, the school board hosted an In-Service day for area CLE schools. Around 38 persons participated from Georgia, South Carolina and Florida. Abe Schwartz, Fred Miller and Sanford Shank served as resource persons. The ladies of the church provided the noon meal.
On November 30, the Shenandoah Valley chorus presented a worship service in song. Visitors were present from a number of churches in Georgia and South Carolina.
A baby boy, Raun Eric, was born to Allen and Lucinda Schrock on November 7.
A daughter, Shana Rose, was born to JP and Catherine on December 13, JP's birthday.
Another family was welcomed to the area with a drop-in housewarming February 2nd. the Merle Diem family moved into Wendell Heatwole's house on January 29th.
February 15 was the day of Wendell and Naomi's commissioning service to Puerto Rico. The church was well filled with family and friends from far and near. Many were present from Georgia as well as some from the Calvary Fellowship and the community. They left by plane on the 17th.
Brother Marcus Lind from Salem, OR, conducted a Bible conference from February 16-22. He taught from the book of Romans. He also captured the children's attention each evening as he spoke about giants.
Ruthie Heatwole attended 6 weeks at Maranatha Bible School. Enos and Glennys were there 3 weeks, teaching and cooking.
Danny and Benita Hege were blessed with a baby girl, Roslyn Jewel, on February 27.
Bill and Leila Platt withdrew their membership from the church membership.
On March 22 Merle and Thelma Diem were received into church membership.
Wednesday evening, April 15, the voice of the congregation was taken concerning ordaining a minister to replace Wendell Heatwole. Support was given to move ahead as the Lord directs.
A 25th Wedding Anniversary drop-in was held for Howard and Miriam Brubaker. Friends from church, community, Calvary Fellowship and Georgia highlighted the day.
In April the men had a "house raising" for Ray Troyers. The frame work was completed and the roof started. Many hands made work light.
The last day of school was May 22 with a program and picnic the following Saturday. This first year was successfully completed fulfilling the vision of the congregation for a Christian Day School including grades one to twelve.
June 8-19 were two busy weeks of Bible School. James Bange was superintendent and the average attendance was 125.
District Family Camp was held July 8-11 near Hephzibah, GA, some of the congregation attended part or all of the time. Enos and Glennys Heatwole helped cook.
Emma Mast, formerly of Calvary Fellowship, was received into the church membership on July 19.
Ruthie Heatwole and Phyllis Brubaker spent 6 weeks helping with Bible School in Ontario at various locations in Northwestern Ontario sponsored by Northern Light Gospel Mission.
James and Esther Bange consented to serve another year as youth sponsors.
On August 16th Merle Ray Diem was received into the church by water baptism.
School began Aug. 31 with Aden and Ruby Miller again serving as teachers. Esther Bange, Thelma Diem and Jane Brubaker helped out as assistants. Glennys Heatwole taught a typing class. There was no first grade class.
On September 27, Ray and Ruby Troyer were received into church fellowship.
J.P. and Catherine Campbell moved into a trailer on their property near Govan, South Carolina.
October 10 was the wedding day of Ruthie Heatwole and Dale Dickerson, Jr. It brought family and friends from as far away as Puerto Rico and Northern Ontario and many places in between.
On October 16, Daryl and Sharon Brubaker welcomed a baby girl, Robin Kay, into their home.
A group of eighty folks from the Vietnamese community living in Columbia was hosted by the congregation at a picnic at Barnwell State Park.
Gary Hege from Shippensburg, PA, came to live with Danny Heges and to make South Carolina his home and be involved in farming.
Phyllis Brubaker left the last of November to begin a term of service with Northern Light Gospel Mission at Red Lake, Ontario working as clerk in the headquarters office.
A baby boy, Clark Allen, was welcomed by Allen and Lucinda Schrock on December 3.
A Christian Nurture Conference was held December 11-13. Speakers were Charles Heatwole, Fred Miller, Roger Berry, and John Risser.
Dale and Selva Jean Dickerson were surprised by their children on their 25th wedding anniversary with a drop in. Fifty-seven guests were present. They were married on December 16, 1956 at Chesapeake, Virginia.
Dale Bange spent 3 weeks at Maranatha Bible School and was a day late in getting home because of snow and blizzard conditions in Minnesota. The airport was closed.
The Gospel Echoes, a prison ministry team who does evangelistic work behind prison walls, was working in Columbia area prisons. Some men from the congregation helped in visitation and counseling.
Don and Betty Heatwole with their two sons moved into the area February 1 to operate the farm that Wendell Heatwoles left a year earlier when they went to Puerto Rico. Howard Brubakers and Aden Millers hosted a house warming in their honor.
Richard Herr from Hanover, PA, served as the evangelist for revival meetings held Feb. 14-21. His wife, Hilda, and two youngest children were guests, also.
Don and Betty Heatwole and Gary Hege were received into church fellowship prior to communion service April 4th.
David and Rachel Bennett from Virginia moved into the area and began attending church services. Prior to coming here they had spent three months with the Northern Light Gospel Mission in North Western Ontario.
Harley Hochstetler went with a Gospel Team that left April 6 for Puerto Rico. They participated in revival meetings at the church where Wendell Heatwole's were working.
May 22 was the day for the end of school program and picnic. May 23 was the commencement for the first graduating class. Those receiving high school diplomas were Ralph Dickerson, Merle Ray Diem, Ann Marie Heatwole, David Hochstetler and Vernon Hochstetler.
Ray Troyer served as superintendent for Bible School June 7-18. Average attendance was 149.
James Yoder was baptized and received into church fellowship on June 13.
The David Bennett family moved from the area the first of September.
Myron and Jane Brubaker were appointed as youth sponsors for the following year.
Sunday school was reorganized and the average attendance for the past year was 75.5
The Charles Brubaker family moved into a mobile home on the farm they had purchased the latter part of August. Charles and Elizabeth were received into the congregation by letter on October 3.
Ralph Dickerson moved to Hephzibah, Georgia to live with John Barnhart's while teaching school at the Waynesboro Mennonite School.
Barnwell Christian School started on August 30 with Aden and Ruby Miller teaching. Thelma Diem taught the first graders. Jane Brubaker and Esther Bange were used as assistants.
1982 was a banner year for babies. Six families welcomed Gods gift to them: Zachari Dan to David and Sharon Yoder on June 25; David Bennett III to David and Rachel Bennett on July 15; Beth Lorraine to Danny and Benita Hege on August 1; Sherwin John to J.P. and Catherine Campbell on August 29; Gideon Percy to Carl and Grace Heatwole on September 14; and Denise Rose to Dale and Ruthie Dickerson on September 17.
Don Heatwole and Danny Heges had a chicken barbecue for the congregation the evening of October 8.
On November 29, Delmar Diem was baptized and received into church fellowship.
The first Sunday morning of December all the school went to Columbia to give a program at an orphanage and a boys' reformatory
The school gave their Christmas program December 19. One of the features was a chalk drawing by Michael Dickerson illustrating their songs.
James Yoder left in December for a term of service under Northern Youth Ministries.
Those attending Maranatha Bible School this year were Merle Ray and Delmar Diem, Enos, Glennys and Ann Marie Heatwole.
Revival meetings began February 20. Eldon Miller from Rowdy, Kentucky, was the evangelist. Nelson Kurtz preached the Sunday through Tuesday evening until Eldon arrived. Those accepting Christ as their savior were Juanita Bange, Joanna Hochstettler, Thomas Miller, Aden Diem, and Mark Hochstetler.
Spring communion service was on Easter Sunday. Also on this day, Sam and Linda Miller were received into fellowship by church letters.
The congregation celebrated its 10th anniversary on April 10. There were lots of visitors present for the occasion. Some who helped in getting the work started had part in the service. A fellowship meal was enjoyed together.
A tornado ripped through the area on April 23, doing some destruction at James Banges and Howard Brubakers. We were grateful no one was hurt. MDS personnel from Virginia were here to clean up and repair the damage of the tornado.
The school program and picnic was on May 21 with graduation on May 22. Carolyn Hair and Steven Brubaker received their high school diplomas.
Ralph Dickerson finished his time of teaching and left for a term of service at Faith Mission Home in Virginia.
A little girl, Janice Ruth, was born to David and Sharon Yoder on July 8.
Wendell and Naomi Heatwole were happy with the birth of twin daughters on July 24. Their names are Jennifer Yvonne and Julie Yvette. Ann Marie Heatwole went to Puerto Rico to help in their home for a few weeks.
Summer Bible school was held June 6-12. Daryl Brubaker was superintendent and the average attendance was 155.
Myron and Jane Brubaker received a little three month old boy, Daniel, into their home under foster care on July 21.
Myron and Jane were appointed youth sponsors for another year.
James Bange was elected S.S. Superintendent for the coming year. The past year's average attendance was 77.
A Family Life Conference was held September 7-11 with David and Rhoda Showalter of Plain City, Ohio as speakers.
Danny Heges, Enos and Don Heatwoles hosted a chicken barbecue for the church September 28.
Harley Hochstetler made plans to go to Puerto Rico in Voluntary Service. He helped in the school and also with the Choice Book work.
Steven Brubaker and David Hochstetler left December 30 for a 6 week term of study at Sharon Mennonite Bible School in PA.
Gary Hege moved from the Danny Hege home into the house he built on his farm nearby. A surprise housewarming shower was given for him one evening after prayer meeting.
Mennonite and Beachy Amish ministers and their wives from the Southeastern states were invited to Barnwell for a time of fellowship and inspiration. Twenty-nine people were present. A noon meal was provided by the ladies of the church.
Carl, Grace and Gideon Heatwole came from Sandy Lake, Ontario to make South Carolina their home in February. They had been serving under Northern Light Gospel Mission.
Menno and Mary Schrock who were former members at Calvary Fellowship Church at Blackville, South Carolina were taken in as members on February 12.
Revivals were held February 12-18 with Larry Showalter from Onego, West Virginia serving as evangelist.
On March 18 Duane and Katie Mast who had moved here from Ohio were taken in as members.
March 24 was the wedding date of Dale Mast and Phyllis Brubaker. The wedding was held at the Barnwell Church.
Michael Dickerson graduated from high school on May 20.
Sunday morning, May 24, was the baptismal service for Karen Dickerson.
Alvin Carl Brenneman and Emma Mast were united in marriage on June 30. Alvin Carl was received into church fellowship by a letter on July 15.
On July 23 Steven Brubaker began a one year voluntary service term under Choice Books of Northern Virginia. He serviced bookracks in the Northern Virginia, Washington DC. and Baltimore areas. David Hochstetler left in October for a term of service with Choice Books.
Ernest Masts moved into the area from Macon, Mississippi, on August 8. The Lloyd Oberholtzer moved from Waynesboro, Georgia on August 21.
J. P. Campbell left the area and moved to Virginia on August 31.
There were five births during the year. Richard Scott was born on January 9 to Charles and Elizabeth Brubaker.
Audrey Gail was born on June 10 to Dale, Jr., and Ruthie Dickerson. Kimberly Anna was born on September 15 to Ernest and Lois Ann Mast. Karla Grace was born September 25 to Carl and Grace Heatwole. Brent Enos was born December 14 to Danny and Benita Hege.
The congregation was divided into eight prayer groups of approximately three families each. Beginning in October the groups met once a month for a time of fellowship and outreach.
Ernest and Lois Ann Mast were received as members on October 7 at the Communion service.
Ralph Dickerson and Ruth Ellen Troyer were united in marriage on November 24 at Plain City, Ohio.
Lynn and Esther Mast moved here from Foxworth, Mississippi in November. The Alvin Byers family from Chambersburg, Pennsylvania moved in December.
A number of visitors were present the first Sunday of the year. The John Overholt family from Ohio sang several songs and Warren Clugston of Pennsylvania reported on the work of Son Light Mission in Haiti.
Shelly Ann was born to Duane and Katy Mast on January 20. Daniel Brubaker's adoption was completed on February 12. He will be 2 years-old in April.
The first Sunday evening of February Daryl and Myron Brubakers and Carl Heatwoles sponsored a "Hunger Awareness" program which five percent of the people present were served a large meal; thirty percent were served bread, rice, beans, and coffee; sixty-five percent received some rice. Then a film strip was shown on the famine in Ethiopia and a discussion period followed.
Aden Troyer from Ohio was the evangelist for the February 11-17 revival meetings.
Lynn and Esther Mast were received as members at the Spring Communion on the first Sunday of April.
A farewell was given after prayer meeting on April 30 for Alvin Carl and Emma Brenneman who moved to Catlett, Virginia.
The High School graduates were Daryl Bange, Rosetta and Wilbur Hochstetler and Anita Miller. Levi Sommers from Sarasota, Florida was the speaker at the commencement.
Several short term V. S. assignment for the summer were Lonita Oberholtzer in Haiti for two months, Rosetta Hochstetler in Puerto Rico for four weeks and Ann Marie Heatwole in New York for several weeks in Bible School.
Summer Bible School was from July 29 to August 9 with average attendance of 169. Myron Brubaker served as Superintendent.
The Nathan Good family from Virginia and Katherine Schrock from Missouri moved into the area in August. Nathan and Katherine were secured to teach in the school. David Hochstetler returned from Virginia to teach also. Chad Bradley Brubaker was born to Myron and Jane Brubaker on September 27. Elizabeth Kay was born to David and Sharon Yoder on October 24 and lived only eight hours. A graveside service was held the next day.
Franklin Ashley Heatwole was born November 19 and received for adoption by Don and Betty Heatwole.
An ordination for a minister was planned for December 15. Fred Miller from West Virginia was present to preach a qualifications sermon on December 11. Votes were taken from the congregation and Myron Brubaker and Ernest Mast were nominated. Because of concerns expressed by the brotherhood the ordination was canceled by the recommendation of the bishops.
A number from the congregation were away for Bible School. Anita Miller and Vernon Hochstetler at SMBI in PA for 6 weeks, Dawn Oberholtzer, Ann Marie Heatwole, Dale Bange and Merle Ray Diem at the new Heritage Bible School, Honea Path, SC, for 3 weeks. Glennys and Enos Heatwole went to Maranatha Bible School in Minnesota to cook and teach.
The young married couples had a hot dog roast as a farewell for Sam and Linda Miller, who moved to Gap, Pennsylvania.
Roger and Linda Martin and their two children from Goshen, Indiana, moved into the area in January and newly weds, Jerry Gingrich from Ontario, Canada and Rita (Mast) Gingrich from Mississippi moved in February. They are attending at Barnwell Mennonite Church. Myron and Jane Brubaker hosted a house warming for those two families. Nathan and Mildred Good's membership transferred form the Bank Congregation in Virginia to Barnwell on February 6.
The following groups gave a program at church:
Heritage Bible School - February 8
Magnolia Chorus from Macon, Mississippi - March 10
Ebenezer Mennonite Church, South Boston, Virginia - March 23
Sharon Mennonite Bible Institute - April 10
Peckway Amish Mennonite Chorus, Peckway, Pennsylvania - August 17
Oscar Schrock from Blountstown, Florida, was the evangelist for meetings from February 23 through March 2. An instruction class followed which included Deborah Byers, Rachel and Wendell Hochstetler, Crystal Oberholtzer, Wesley Miller, Connie, Lelar and Lynn Zorn.
A new venture for the congregation was the organization of a chorus. Myron Brubaker was chosen as director. The church was invited to have a Sunday morning worship service at the Barnwell Detention Center. The Bible Study Groups each take their turn to lead the service during the Sunday School hour.
The 1985-86 school term finished on May 28 with the Commencement on Sunday evening June 1. Those graduating were Thomas Still, Quincy Hochstetler and Aden Diem.
Linford Oberholtzer was hit by a train on his way to church June 8. He was thrown from his truck and suffered with a brain concussion and amnesia. After several days in the hospital, he recovered.
Summer Bible School was held July 28 through August 8 with Bill Hochstetler as Superintendent. Average attendance was 173.9. William Hayne was born June 5 to Daryl and Sharon Brubaker. Joshua Mark was born on July 30 to Carl and Grace Heatwole.
A number of people were moving in August. Dale Dickerson's left for a 2 year term of service at Popular Hill , Ontario, Canada. Wendell Heatwole's returned to Puerto Rico after a summer furlough. Anne Marie Heatwole went to Fair Play Boys Camp for a year of VS. Anita Miller moved to Sarasota, Florida to work. This left a youth group of 3 girls and 15 boys.
Ivan and Dena Skrivseth moved to Govan from Wisconsin.
Tent meetings were a new venture for the church Oct. 19 through 26. The tent was located on the Lloyd Oberholtzer property between Denmark and Bamberg. Aden Troyer form Ohio was the evangelist. The interest was good with many visitors.
Suzanne Abigail was born on October 9 into the Nathan and Mildred Good family and Glenda Kay was born on November 7 to Danny and Benita Hege. Darlene Gail arrived in the home of Delmar and Lonita Diem.
James Yoder and Anne Helmuth of VA were married in VA, October 25.
November 1 was Praise Days weekend. Interest in this annual meeting has grown with an estimated attendance of over 200 youth present.
Baptismal Service was held Nov. 30 when Crystal Oberholtzer, Deborah Byers, Rachel and Wendell Hochstetler and Wesley Miller were baptized and received into the church fellowship. Jerry and Rita Gingerich were received by letter.
The eight singing men from Virginia gave a music program on December 30.
Revivals were held in February with Ivan Weaver from Bethel, PA as evangelist.
The weddings involving members of our congregation were: Steven Brubaker to Cynthia Brenneman, Harrisonville, PA; Gary Hege to Cheryl Yoder Buckcreek, WI; and Merle Ray Diem to Marlene Weaver Montezuma, GA.
A house raising was held for a new house for Dale and Selva Jean Dickerson and Allen and Lucinda Schrock dug out for their new house.
Dale Leroy Dickerson, Sr. passed away May 11 after a battle with cancer.
Aden and Ruby Miller and family moved to Sarasota, FL.
Duane Bange was diagnosed with Gillian Barres Syndrome and was laid up most of the summer. About the time he was ready to start back to school he had a bicycle accident which laid him low again.
The church chorus was re-organized with Nathan Good as director.
Vernon Hochstetler went to NYP in VS; Quincy Hochstetler went to teach school in southern Indiana, and Rosetta Hochstetler went to teach at Calvary Fellowship at Blackville.
The little schoolroom was built behind the church to accommodate the first and second graders.
A group from Heritage Bible School gave the Sunday evening program on January 17. The youth provided and shared the supper with them before the service.
Barnwell Christian School hosted Academic Challenge Day for Waynesburo Mennonite School on January 29. Students were quizzed on various subjects. Also included was spelling bees, poetry recitation, speeches, essay writing and drawing.
A week long music school was held each evening at the church with Lloyd Hartzler as teacher. The first evening Bill Hochstetler received a phone call that son Vernon, who was serving with Northern Youth Program in Northern Ontario, was lost in a snow storm. A prayer meeting was immediately called in his behalf after which the music class was resumed. At 11:00 Hochstetlers were notified that Vernon was found, safe, but with frost bitten and blistered feet.
Howard Brubakers were in Puerto Rico in Feb. for administrative work for the Missions Committee and Harley Hochsteler returned home after spending 4 and a half years there working with the mission.
On April 17 and through out the week, many invitations were given for people to come to the Community Bible Crusade, sponsored by the Barnwell Mennonite Church. The meetings were held at the Denmark-Olar High School Gym from April 24 - May 1. George Richards from Washington DC. was the speaker. A fair number of community people attended. With the support of the Mennonite Churches in SC and GA a large crowd was present each night. Many people testified of having been revived as a result of the meetings.
James and Ann Yoder moved to Ohio on April 27 to make their home there.
High School Graduation was on May 15,1988, with Ralph Dickerson the commencement speaker. Jennifer Troyer, Karen Dickerson and Nelson Hochstetler were the graduates.
Bible School was from June 6-17 with Carl Heatwole as Superintendent. Average attendance was 174.
Menno Schrock's left to spend the summer in Oklahoma with two of their daughters. During a thunderstorm on June 26, lightning struck the end of their house doing considerable damage to the attic and some of the walls and ceilings. Carpets, furniture, etc. had some smoke and water damage but still were usable with clean-up. After consulting Menno's, it was decided to repair what could be done, leaving the finishing touches to Schrock's when they came home in the fall.
David and Mary Kanagy were received as church members on May 8.
Lynn and Esther Mast and Duane and Katie Mast placed their membership at New Holland Mennonite Church. Aden and Ruby Miller and two sons placed their membership at Palm Grove Mennonite Church in Florida.
Starla Ann was born to Delmar and Lonita Diem on July 1.
Daryl Bange went to Canada for a year of VS with Northern Youth Programs in July and Quincy Hochstetler went to Goshen, IN August to teach school.
Dale Dickersons return from 2 years of VS at Popular Hill School in Canada in July and Vernon Hochstetler from Northern Youth Programs in August.
The Ray and Rhoda Wenger family from VA presented a Family oriented program Sept. 9-11. Ray gave messages on the role of husband and wife and child training. The children provided special singing and memory work.
Praise Days were held October 29-30 with a record attendance of 275.
November 11 was the day that Floyd Kauffman family moved to SC from Richland Center, WI. An evening fellowship for the youth and their families was provided to help get organized with the Kauffmans. The same day David and Sharon Yoder received an addition to their family by birth, KaLynn Glenda.
A number of members from the church went to Hartwell, GA to help in the construction and renovation of Hartwell Mennonite Center.
The Shenandoah Valley Chorus from Harrisonburg, Virginia presented a program of sacred music on January 21.
Ivan Ramer from Red Lake, Ontario, was the Evangelist for the revival meetings February 19-26.
The spring communion was held on April one at which time Floyd and Katie Kauffman and daughters, Ruth Ann and Sharon, and also Marlene Diem were received as church members by letter. Duane Bange was baptized and became a member of the church on April 23.
High School graduates were Anna Sara Hill, Juanita Bange and Mark Hochstetler. The commencement exercises were on May 20 with James Stutzman for Southern Pines, North Carolina as speaker.
Since Aden Miller, the former pastor, and family moved to Florida, the congregation supported a recommendation from the bishop to ordain a minister from the congregation. Martin Miller from Meigs, Georgia gave a Sunday morning message to prepare the congregation for the ordination. Joe Hershberger from Honea Path, South Carolina and Lester Heatwole from Elkton, Virginia were present for a meeting on the 24th of May with Joe Hershberger giving the qualification message. Allen Schrock and Carl Heatwole were nominated by the congregation. On Sunday the 28th, Allen Schrock was selected by lot and ordained. Lester Heatwole preached the ordination message.
There were five births in 1989, Daffney Renae to Merle Ray and Marlene Diem on May 24 and Ryan Daniel to Ivan and Dena Skrivseth on May 28. Later in the year Kyle Steven to Steven and Cynthia Brubaker on October 16, Joel Travis to Carl and Grace Heatwole on October 22 and Darren Lynn to Delmar and Lonita Diem on December 19.
Bible School was from June 3-16 with Allen Schrock and Ernest Mast as superintendents. Average attendance was 150.
Wilbur Hochstetler went to Reading, Pennsylvania for a term of V.S. on June eight. Quincy Hochstetler went to Goshen, Indiana and Harley Hochstetler to Myerstown, Pennsylvania to teach school for the 1989-90 term.
Praise Days was again a big event for the congregation with a large group of youth and sponsors present. Wendell Heatwole was the speaker.
Linford Oberholtzer and Rosetta Hochstetler were married on November 25.
Dawn Oberholtzer left on August eight for Popular Hill, Canada for V.S. The Popular Hill Development School had to be closed because of a changing political situation and Dawn returned in October.
 The baptism of Gwendolyn Heatwole took place at the Sunday morning service January 14.
The annual revival meeting was from February 4-11 with Ken Brenneman from Millbank, Ontario as the message bearer.
Ernest Masts moved to Wagener, South Carolina and transferred their membership to the New Holland congregation. Three other losses of membership were Alvin Byers and the Zorn sisters Lelar and Connie by withdrawal.
Jerry and Rita Gingerich and son moved to Sarasota, Florida. Daryl Bange and Cheryl Yoder of Holmes County Ohio were married in Ohio on April 14. A number of families from the church were present at the wedding.
JoAnna Hochstetler was the only one to graduate from High School. The commencement was on Sunday the 27th with Pat Pritchard as the speaker.

An addition was added to the main church structure this year. The primary purpose for this addition was to accomadate the expanding school needs.

Bible School was held June 4-8. This was the first year for a one week Bible School. Because of crowded conditions at the Barnwell church, Bible School was held at two locations, using the facilities of the Calvary Fellowship church also. Daryl Bange and Delmar Diem were superintendents at Barnwell and Vernon Hochstetler and Charles Brubaker at Calvary. The attendance was 88 at Barnwell and 92 at Calvary.
God blessed the congregation two girls and two boys by birth, Amanda Jane to David and Sharon Yoder, April 22, Dustin Corbette to Merle Ray and Marlene Diem, June 12, Laura Dawn to Dale and Ruth Dickerson on August nine and Thomas Weston to Daryl and Sharon Brubaker on October 15.
Dawn Oberholtzer left in August for a one year term of service with the Northern Youth Programs. The marriage of Aden Diem and Ann Marie Heatwole was on September 22 at the church with Howard Brubaker performing the ceremony.
The annual Southern Ministers Meeting was hosted by the Barnwell church on October 2 -3.

The ordinance of Anointing with oil was observed at the request of Linda Miller at the Sunday morning worship service October 21. Linda suffers from multiple sclerosis.

The theme for Praise Days October 27-28 was Youth and Parent Relations. John Forry from Hanover, Pennsylvania was the speaker. Nathan Good served as Chorus Director. A new policy requesting all guests to stay in area homes was started. This provided for more fellowship better management of the large influx of visitors.

Steven Byers, Marilyn Kauffman and Lilly Hochstetler were baptized and received into church fellowship on December 16.

1991

Ruby and Nettie Schrock, parents of Allen and Katherine Schrock, moved from Missouri to Barnwell, SC. in February. They were received as members of the church on April 7. At the same time, Merle Ray and Marlene Diem withdrew their membership.

Revival meetings were held Feb. 3-10 with John Risser, Dayton, VA, serving as evangelist. Each evening he had a children's class. Since John couldn't be present the first evening, Gerald Eshleman preached for him.

A house was purchased in Denmark to house Bible Clubs for boys and girls and Bible Studies for adults.

The Danny Hege family returned in March 19 after spending two years in PA. While they were away, Benita was diagnosed as having Hodgskins disease.

Vernon Hochstetler left for Phoenix, AZ on March 18 for an indefinite period of time to work at Teen Haven. On December 15, his membership was transferred to Paradise Valley Mennonite Church in Phoenix, Arizona.

 

Carolyn Lanae was born on Feb. 10 and received for adoption on March 17 by Don and Betty Heatwole.

Daryl and Cheryl Bange moved into the area on April 4 after spending the first year of their marriage in Montana operating a Bed and Breakfast.

Jay William was born to Linford and Rosetta Oberholtzer on April 4. Other births throughout the year were: Desiree Joanne to Steven and Cynthia Brubaker on June 9. Barry Deon was born on June 28 to Myron and Jane Brubaker. Carmen Ann to Aden and Ann Marie Diem on July 7. On Dec. 19, Emily Dawn was born to Delmar and Lonita Diem.

Nomination services were held on May 15 with Lester Heatwole, Elkton, VA, bringing the qualifications message. Gary Hege received the nominations and the ordination service was held May 19 at which time he was ordained deacon.

Following the closing day school program and picnic, good-byes were said to the David Yoder and Nathan Good families. The Yoders moved to their native community in Holmes County, Ohio. The Goods moved to South Boston, VA.

Summer Bible School was held June 10-15 with an average attendance of 142. Harley Hochstetler and Danny Hege served as superintendents. Some of the church members also assisted with the Bible School at Calvary Fellowship Church at Blackville, SC.

Jewel Good, Crystal Good and Joani Schrock were baptized and received as members on June 23. Bonita Brubaker and Steven Kauffman were baptized and became church members on October 6.

After several months of hard work, the chorus along with anyone else who was interested presented the cantata, the "Holy City", at Barnwell on June 30. Nathan Good was the director.

Sam and Beverly Groff and their family of five, moved here from Watsontown, PA, the last of June. On October 6, Sam, Beverly, Jeff, Jerry and James were received as members of the church.

July 13 was the wedding day of Juanita Bange and Steve Zimmerman. Following their wedding they moved to Missouri to make their home.

In August, the Wendell Heatwole family returned to Puerto Rico after spending four years in Columbia, where Wendell attended Columbia Bible College. Steven Brubakers moved to Columbia, SC, to attend the same college.

Bill Byler came from Catlett, VA in August to teach the high school students at the Barnwell Christian School.

Quincy Hochstetler is again teaching school in Catlett, VA.

Dawn Oberholtzer returned in August from a year of services with Northern Youth in Dryden, Ontario.

Praise Days were held Oct. 26-27 with David Yoder from Delaware being the speaker. There were approximately 200-250 attending.

JoAnna Hochstetler left the end of Nov. to live and work in PA.

The Eugene Sommers family gave a NYP presentation in Nov..

After several hospitalizations, Menno Schrock was diagnosed as having a malignant tumor. He requested an anointing service which was held in his home on Nov. 17 with the ministry in attendance.

Howard Bean from Tanistock, Ontario was the speaker at a Bible Conference, November 29 and December 1. The theme was "Growing in Grace".

The chorus was re-established in December after a period of inactivity. Don Heatwole was appointed director.

The Ernest Mast family moved back into the area and again worshipped at the Barnwell church

1992

A number of people were involved in Winter Bible School at the beginning of the year. Enos and Glennys Heatwole at Heritage Bible School (first term) and Howard Brubaker for second term. Sharon Kauffman and Crystal Oberholtzer were students at Heritage Bible School.

Author Good from Denver, Pennsylvania, was the evangelist for the revival meeting, February 2-9. He had an interesting children's meeting every evening before the message. The children memorized Bible verses that clinched the theme of the story that he told. The Ray Weaver family were present the last of February and gave a family oriented program at the mid-week meeting.

Three babies arrived with the spring flowers. Melissa Renae to Daryl and Cheryl Bange on February 16, Kevin Dale to Dale and Ruth Dickerson on March 24 and Andrea Joy to Ivan and Dena Skrivseth on April 16.

Cretora Mast was baptized on April 26 and Joanna Hochstetler transferred her membership to Pennsylvania in April.

Merle Yoder of Macon, Mississippi and Dawn Oberholtzer were married at the church by Howard Brubaker on May 16. They will live in Mississippi. Dawn transferred her membership to Mississippi in August.

School activities came to a close on May 24 with Wendell Hochstetler, Deborah Byers, and Rosemary Brubaker graduating from high school. Steven Brubaker was the commencement speaker.

A number of visiting groups gave programs during the summer. Magnolia Melodies, a ladies singing quintet, from Macon, Mississippi on May 17, A fellowship with the group was enjoyed afterward. The Nathan Good family gave a program of song on July 26. On August 16 the Voices of Praise from Gladys, Virginia, gave an evening program of song.

Nelson Hochstetler and Deborah Yoder, from Wisconsin, were married at Richland Center, Wisconsin, by her father Enos Yoder on August 7. Dale Bange and Ruth Ann Kauffman were married at Barnwell Church on September 26. Howard Brubaker performed the ceremony.