Sunday September 16th was a dazzling, late summer afternoon for the annual St Peter’s Homecoming. But nothing could have been brighter than the spirits of those gathered.
This event has been held on the third Sunday of September for over fifty years, and the homecoming’s themselves have been held since the church held its last regular worship service in 1905.
This year over one hundred and fifty people took the opportunity to take part in one of the many activities held for the decedents of the original congregation, friends and community.
Many come just for the excitement of the old time hymn sing and to hear the amazing original pump organ.
This year we welcomed the sounds of Joseph Helfrich known locally as “Simply Joseph” provided beautiful music during the meal time followed by master storyteller, Chris Supinger. The music for the hymn sing was led by the choir of St. John Lutheran Church under the direction of Margaret Hartzel.
The Rev. Robert Akins of Friedens in Bloomer, and Trinity of Versailles gave a brief meditation on the subject of “Coming Home”. Two of the trustees and descendents, Richard Shumaker and James Kelch took part in leading the service as did numerous others whom were all decedents of the original Congregation. Karen Lawrence, of Versailles was organist for the afternoon with Barb Agne, offering the appropriate solo, “Bless This House”.
For some, like Jim Patterson and wife Carol, a Trittschue descendent, from Illinois, is was a return visit this year to share in the experience with his brother and sister and husband said he was overwhelmed to sit and worship in the same spot where so many of my ancestor worshiped before. Others like Vada Fisher of Versailles said she had come as long as she could remember. There are always familiar faces and the greeting of “hello cousin” throughout the gathering. Yet many new faces from the community whom have heard the story of the church that comes to life once a year, are welcomed as well.
They came from as far as away as Dayton, Columbus, and Cincinnati, to Illinois to Indiana, to Missouri this year, to reflect, celebrate and embrace a little of the past.
Mark your calendars now for the next homecoming scheduled for September 15, 2013. But you’d better plan on coming a little early, the seats are filling up earlier every year, as Darke Countians are learning the joy of “coming home” again!
If you would like to help support the ongoing maintenance and restoration work of this Darke County treasure, we would gladly welcome your financial support and sincerely thank those whom have already contributed.
Gifts may be made to “St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran Church” c/o Richard Shumaker 5958 Children’s Home/Bradford Rd. Greenville, Ohio 45331.
If you are interested in a private tour or for a seminar on the history of St. Peter’s Evangelical Church, you may contact either Mr. Shumaker or Jim Kelch at 176 Kathline Court, Versailles to make arrangements.
Out thanks also goes this year to Thrivent Financial for their gift toward our Homecoming.
