The bell chimed 100 times at a Chilliwack church signifying a milestone event on Tuesday.
Marking the centennial anniversary of the United Church of Canada, members of Carman United Church gathered on June 10 where several parishioners helped ring the church's outdoor bell a total of 100 times.
"Let every ring be a tribute to those who have come before us, those who have served faithfully, and those who continue to carry the light of Christ into the future," said council chair Dan McDermid. "This is more than a celebration of history, it's a celebration of a living, growing, spirit-filled faith community."
The United Church of Canada was formed on June 10, 1925 in Toronto when the Methodist Church of Canada, the Congregational Union of Canada and 70 per cent of the Presbyterian Church of Canada united.
"Today we join with communities across this country to mark a full century of faith, service, and witness a century in which the United Church has stood for justice, inclusion, compassion, and hope. We are proud to be part of that legacy here in Chilliwack, (and) continue to live out those values in our own community," McDermid said.
Here in Chilliwack, the church was originally called Carman Methodist Church. The sanctuary was built in 1898 on Higginson Road, and the schoolhouse came 10 years later in 1908. In March 1926, one year after it became part of the United Church of Canada, Carman was moved in two pieces from Higginson Road to its location on Vedder Road. The current sanctuary was built in 1956.
Church member Marge Thornton shared a brief part of her family's history saying her husband's grandfather helped roll the church to its current location nearly 100 years ago.
Rev. Michael Hare recalled attending the 50th anniversary and said much has changed over the past five decades.
"But, the United Church and its congregations have continued to proclaim the gospel, comfort the afflicted, and offer its prophetic voice in word and action."
Carman United Church is inviting everyone to its worship service on Sept. 14 for a full centennial celebration.
