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This Book has been prepared with LOVE, HOPE and PRAYERS. LOVE for the
Lord and all brethren in Christ, HOPE that the heritage of Forrest Burdette Memorial
Methodist Church will continue throughout the years to come and with PRAYERS
that there is a "challenge for the FUTURE" from the "commitment of the PAST".
The 75th Anniversary Task Force takes this opportunity to THANK all who
have contributed to this project. We offer our sincere appreciation to Carl and
Agnes Henderson for their loving care of records and memories which have assisted
in compiling the history of our church.
Karen Lilly, Chairperson
ABOUT THE COVER: "The FUTURE is NOW" by Garnett McCann
"See the Vision,....Explore the Possibilities!"
The artist is a talented, faithful supporter of Forrest Burdette Memorial United
Methodist Church and a member of JOY Fellowship. She designed the artwork for the 75th
Anniversary quilt and recently completed the painting of the three views of Forrest
Burdette Memorial Methodist Church since it's construction in 1915. The edged frame
allows one to use the imagination in determining the future of Forrest Burdette Memorial
United Methodist Church.
FORREST BURDETTE MEMORIAL
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
A Rich Heritage—A Promising Future
To Bring God's Love To Many
75 Years of Caring Ministry
Thomas J. Bickerton, Pastor
Rev. Charles Thompson, Associate Pastor
The 75th Anniversary Task Force: Karen Lilly, David Bobbitt, Grace
Boggess, Harold Crawford, Kim Dunlap, Linda Gibson, Carl and Agnes
Henderson, Joe McMillion, Earl Miller, Billie Saunders, Steve and Barbara
Morrison.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Character of a Methodist I
Our Roots, Our Heritage 1
Local Beginnings 4
75th Anniversary 32
Pastors 40
Sunday School Ministry of Forrest Burdette 40
United Methodist Women Ministry of Forrest Burdette 43
United Methodist Men Ministry of Forrest Burdette 48
United Methodist Youth Ministry of Forrest Burdette 49
Boy Scout Ministry of Forrest Burdette 51
Music Ministry of Forrest Burdette 52
Personal Witnesses of Members of Forrest Burdette 55
But to all opinions which do not strike at the root of
Christianity, we thank and let think. This means that
whether or not these secondary opinions are right
or wrong, they are not the distinguishing marks of a
Methodist.
THE CHARACTER OF A METHODIST Neither are words or phrases of any sort. For our
religion does not depend on any particular way of
by John Wesley speaking. We do not rely upon any quaint or
uncommon expressions. The most obvious, easy
TO THE READER words which convey the truth most effectively—
these we Methodist prefer, in daily speech and when
Since the name (Methodist) first came abroad we speak about the things of God.
into the world, many have been at a loss to know We never depart from the most common ordinary
what a Methodist is; what are the principles and the way of speaking—unless it be to express Scriptural
practice of those who are commonly called by that truths in the words of Scripture. And we don't suppose
name; and the distinguishing marks. any Christian will condemn us for this!
And it being generally believed that I was able to We don't put on airs by repeating certain Scriptural
give the clearest account of these things...! have expressions—unless these are used by the
been called upon, in all manner of ways, and with inspired writers themselves.
the utmost earnestness, so to do. Our religion does not consist of doing those things
I yield at last to the continued importunity...and which God has not forbidden. It is not a matter of our
now give the clearest account I can...of the principles clothes or the way we walk; whether our heads are
and practice whereby those who are called Methodist covered; or in abstaining from marriage or from food
are distinguished from other men..... and drink (all these things can be good if they are
Let us not always be fighting in the dark. Come and received gratefully and used reverently as
let us look one another in the face. And perhaps blessings given us by God). Nobody who knows the
some of you who hate what I am called may love what truth will try to identify a Methodist by any of these
I am by the grace of God; or rather what "I follow outward appearances.
after, if that I may apprehend that which also I am Nor is a Methodist identified because he bases
apprehended of Christ Jesus." his religion on any particular part of God's truth. By
John Wesley "salvation", the Methodist means holiness of heart and
life. This springs from true faith, and nothing else.
(From: A Great Methodist Classic Paraphrased for Can even a nominal Christian deny this?
Today) There are toomany people who make a religion out
of (1) doing no harm, or (2) doing good. (And often
these two together.) God knows, we Methodists do not
fall into this mistaken way of defining our
THE CHARACTER OF A METHODIST Christianity! Experience proves that many people
struggle vainly for a long, long time with this false
The distinguishing marks of a Methodist are not his idea of religion consisting of good works (or no bad
opinions of any sort... his accepting this or that scheme works)! In the end, these deluded people have no
of religion...his embracing any particular set of religion at all; they are no better off than when they
notions...or mouthing the judgments of one man or started!
another. All these are quite wide of the point.
Therefore, whoever imagines that a Methodist is a Then What Is The Distinguishing
man of such and such opinion is sadly ignorant. We do Mark OfA Methodist?
believe that "all Scripture is given by inspiration of
God." This distinguishes us from all non-Christians. Who Is A Methodist?
We believe that the written word of God is the only
and sufficient rule both of Christian faith and practice A Methodist is a person who has the love of God in
in our lives. And this distinguishes us from the Roman his heart. This is a gift of God's Holy Spirit. And the
Catholic Church. same Spirit causes a Methodist to love the Lord
We believe that Christ is the eternal, supreme God. his God with all his soul, with all his mind, with all
This distinguishes us from those who consider his strength.
Jesus Christ to be less than divine.
I
God is the joy of a Methodist's heart; the desire of testifying to the Methodist of his adoption into God's
his soul, which cries out constantly, "whom have I in own family.
Heaven but you, Lord?" There is nothing on earth that The Methodist rejoices because he looks forward
I desire but you, my God and my All! You are the confidently to serving the glory of Christ fully revealed
strength of my life, you Lord, are all I need." one day. This expectation is a source of great joy, and
Naturally, the Methodist is happy in God. Yes, he the Methodist exacts, "Blessed be the God and Father
is always happy because the Methodist has within him of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to the Father's
that "well of water" which Christ promised. It floods abundant mercy, He has caused me to be re-born
up to overflowing, bringing glorious assurance of the so I can enjoy this eternal hope which never fades
life that never ends. Therefore, the Methodist is a or tarnishes. This is an inheritance of faith. It cannot
person in whom God's peace and joy are be stolen, lost, or destroyed in anyway. It is a pure
constantly evident. and permanent hope. God has reserved its
The Methodist does not fear God's wrath for himself. fulfillment in eternity for me!"
Perfect love has banished fear of God's Having this great hope, the Methodist gives thanks
punishment from the Methodist's heart. For this to God at all times and in all circumstances. For the
reason, he is able to rejoice evermore. He does not Methodist knows that God expects His children to be
rejoice in himself or in his achievements. Instead, the always grateful.
Methodist rejoices in God, who is his Lord and his The Methodist receives every happening cheerfully,
Savior. declaring "God is the will of the Lord". Whether the
The Methodist acknowledges God as his Father. Lord gives or takes away, the Methodist blesses
Why? Because the Methodist has received from the name of the Lord.
Jesus Christ the power to become a glad and grateful Another characteristic of the Methodist: He has
son of the Father. learned to be content, whether he has much or little.
The Methodist is one who realizes that he belongs When humiliation comes, the Methodist accepts this
to God instead of satan. This is redemption. It is gladly as the Father's will. When prosperity and good
possible only because Jesus gave His Life on the fortune come, the Methodist likewise gives God the
cross. He shed His blood to make atonement for credit. The Methodist accepts all circumstances
the sins of all who believe in Him. The Methodist gladly, knowing that these are God's doing intended
trusts in Christ alone for his salvation. The Methodist for his ultimate good.
knows that the blood of Jesus has cleansed him from Whether he is in leisure or suffering pain...whether
all sin. Through Christ and Christ alone, the he is sick or in good health...whether he lives or dies,
Methodist has received forgiveness for his sins. the Methodist gives thanks to God from the very
The Methodist never forgets this. And the depths of his heart. For the Methodist trusts that
Methodist shudders as he considers the eternal God's ways are always good...that every wonderful
punishment from which he has been delivered by and perfect gift comes to us from God, into whose
Jesus Christ. The Methodist gives thanks that God providential hand the Methodist has committed his
loved him enough to spare him—to beat out his body and soul.
transgressions and iniquities...to atone for them with The Methodist never stops praying. It is second
shed blood and broken body of His beloved Son. nature for him to pray and not be discouraged. This
Having personally experienced deliverance from does NOT mean that the Methodist is always praying
God's wrath, the Methodist cannot keep from rejoicing. in a church building! (Though it goes without saying
He rejoices everytime he thinks of his narrow escape that the Methodist misses no opportunity for public
from eternal destruction. He rejoices that by God's worship.) The Methodist is often on his knees in
kindness, he, a sinner, has been placed in a new humility before God, but he does not spend all his time
relationship with his Creator. This miracle has been in contemplation.
accomplished through Jesus Christ, the Methodist's Nor does the Methodist try to beat God's ears with
beloved Savior. many words. For the Holy Spirit speaks to God on
Whoever thus believes experiences the assurance behalf of the Methodist, expressing his innermost
of God's love and forgiveness. This clear and hopes and longings which human words cannot
certain inner recognition is witness that the Methodist articulate. This alone is true prayer; the language of
is a son of God by faith. This truth is made known the heart which overflows with joy which sometimes is
to the Methodist as God sends His own Spirit to bear best expressed in holy silence before God.
witness deep within the mind and soul of the The Methodist whole self is tuned to God's will-at
Methodist, enabling him to cry out "Father, My all times, and in all circumstances. Nothing can sever
Father!" This is the inner view of God's Holy Spirit, the bond that unites the Methodist and his God. This
II
constant sense of closeness and communion cannot his body and his mind. Now having died to the
be broken by business, leisure or conversation. This authority of sin, and having risen with Christ to a new
closeness to God is the true sign of the and holy life, the Methodist has given himself over to
Methodist's love for His Creator and Redeemer. God's control.
Therefore, the Methodist walks with God, being Not only does the Methodist AIM at complete
constantly aware of Him who is invisible and immortal. dedication to God, he achieves this! His business, his
Inscribed indelibly on the Methodist heart is the recreation, his social life all serve this great purpose:
truth that "he who loves God loves his brother also." "Whatever you do, in word or in deed, do all in the
This means that the Methodist cares about his neighbor name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the
as much as the Methodist cares about himself! Father through Him."
His heart is full of love-for everyone! This love The customs of this world don't prevent the
does not stop with the Methodist's personal Methodist from full dedication to God. He runs the
acquaintances; it encircles all mankind. Even those race of daily life, knowing that God has ordained this
who hate the Methodist receive love in return. For like as his calling. The Methodist knows that wickedness is
Jesus, the Methodist loves his enemies. And the wrong in the sight of God, even though society may
Methodist loves even God's enemies, the evil and the consider it perfectly acceptable. The Methodist never
unthankful. forgets that someday, everybody will have to account
There is one great desire which motivates the to God for every thought and every action.
Methodist: to do not his own will, but God's. The Therefore, the Methodist cannot follow the crowd,
Methodist's single intention is to please God. T his when the crowd chooses to do evil. He cannot devote
absorption with God fills the Methodist's life with himself to selfish indulgence. The Methodist can no
radiance, joy and peace at all times. Because the more be preoccupied with making money than he
Methodist is focused on God to the exclusion of all could swallow red hot embers! Nor can the Methodist
else, the light which is God fills the Methodist's whole waste money on fancy clothes, or jewelry, which
being. Thus, he is a "child of light". feathers the senses, but do not glorify God at all.
So God reigns alone and supreme within the Another mark of a Methodist: he will not take part
Methodist. No motion of the Methodist's mind or in any amusement which has the least possibility of
conscience is out of tune with God's gracious, causing harm to others. He cannot speak evil of his
sovereign will. A Methodist's every thought and neighbor anymore than the Methodist can lie for God
action points to the Lord! or any man. Love keeps guard over the Methodist's
Anybody can identify a tree by its fruit. So also the lips, so he cannot speak evil of anybody. Nor is God's
Methodist is known because his life bears the fruit of precious gift of speech wasted with useless, inane
God: keeping of all the commandments from the chatter which does not keep people in some
greatest to the very least. The Methodist conscience constructive way.
is clear before God. Whatever God forbids; that the Whatever things are pure and noble, on these
Methodist avoids. Whatever God has commanded, the the Methodist fixes attention. Also, on things that
Methodist does, whether this invokes joy or grief, ease are lovely, just and of good reputation. Thus, all that
or great difficulty, gain or loss. Because the Methodist the Methodist says or does somehow furthers the
has been set at liberty by God's Spirit, he finds his Gospel of Jesus Christ.
deepest satisfaction in doing God's will, on earth even As time permits, the Methodist does good to all, his
as it is in heaven. neighbors and strangers; his friends and enemies.
The Methodist keeps ALL God's commandments This includes every kind of good. Naturally, the
-not half-heartedly, but with enthusiasm and gladness. Methodist provides food for the hungry, clothing to
The Methodist's obedience to God is in direct the naked. He visits people who are sick and in
proportion to his love for God. And this "perfect love" prison. But even more important than this, the
is the source of the Methodist's desire to obey God's Methodist labors to do good to the souls of men-
Law 100 percent. according to the ability which God has given him,
All this means that the Methodist is continually the Methodist labors to awaken those who have
offering his whole self to God...holding back nothing, never known God, and therefore sleep the slumber
but giving all to increase the glory of God in the world. of eternal death. And when men are awakened to
The Methodist knows that every single ability has God, the Methodist helps them to realize that the
come from God. So the Methodist g ladly dedicates atoning blood of Jesus has power to cleanse away
these talents to the Lord. The Methodist withholds their sins. The greatest good work a Methodist can
nothing from God...nothing. Before he became a do is to help somebody get into right relationship with
Christian, the Methodist allowed evil to take control of God.
III
When the Methodist meets somebody who has one baptism, one God and Father of us all. He is
not yet found peace with God, the Methodist stirs above all things, through all things, and in you as well.
them up in the hope that he may be set free to do
the good works which God intends for every person to Few Methodists Today are aware that
do. Methodism's founder wrote a profound
The Methodist is willing to spend his time and definition of the Methodist character. We have
energies in doing this important work for God. His preserved the ideas of Wesley but tried to
time and his talents are given as a loving sacrifice to express them in 20th century language. Editor,
God in order that the people round him may grow into Good News, Wilmore, Kentucky.
the fullness of Christ.
These are the principles and practices of a
Methodist. These are the makings of a true Methodist.
By these things alone does the Methodist wish to be In reference to John Wesley's Aldersgate
distinguished from other men. Experience mentioned on page 1 of OUR
Somebody may say: —-———— "Why these are ROOTS, OUR HERITAGE in this publication, the
only the common basic principles of Christianity!" following is a detailed description from Out of the
This is what Methodism is, nothing more or less. We, Deep.
Methodists, refuse to be distinguished from other
men, by any other than the common principles of ALDERSGATE EXPERIENCE
Christianity- the plain old Christianity that I teach
renouncing and detesting all other marks of
distinction. Any person who fits this pattern is a At 3 p.m., May 24, 1738, the day his soul lifting
Christian no matter what you call him! It is not a experience came to John Wesley at Aldersgate, he
matter of denominational label, but of being inwardly heard an anthem in London's famous St. Paul's
and outwardly conformed to the word of God as Cathedral. This is that anthem, as abridged by Dr.
revealed in the Bible. Austin C. Lovelace. The original was written by Dr.
The Christian thinks, speaks, and lives according to William Croft (1678-1727), and was one of 30
the pattern set by Jesus, and his soul is renewed anthems published in 1724. The words are drawn from
in righteousness and holiness, after God's own image. Psalms 130:
By these marks, Methodists labor to distinguish
ourselves from the unbelieving world; from all whose Out of the depths I cry to thee,
minds and lives are not ruled according to the Gospel OLord!
of Christ. Methodists do not wish to be distinguished Lord, hear my voice!
at all from real Christians of any denomination. Like Let thy ears be attentive
them, we are seeking that perfection of Christ which to the voice of my supplications!
we have not yet attained. As Jesus said, "whoever
does the will of the Heavenly Father is our brother, If thou, O Lord, shouldst mark
sister, and mother." iniquities,
And so I beg you, let all true Christians remain Lord, who could stand?
united; let us not be divided among ourselves. Is your But there is forgiveness with thee,
heart right as my heart is with yours? I ask no further that thou mayest be feared.
question; give me your hand. For the sake of mere
opinions or terms, let us not destroy the work of God. I wait for the Lord, my soul waits,
Do you love God? This is enough. I give you the
and in His word I hope;
right hand of fellowship.
my soul waits for the Lord
If there is any consolation in Christian comfort in
more than watchmen for the morning,
love...any fellowship in the Spirit...any affection and
more than watchmen for the morning.
sympathy, then let us work together on behalf of the
Gospel. Let us walk in a way that is worthy of the
O, Israel hope in the Lord!
vocation in which we are called. Let us walk in
For with the Lord there is steadfast Love,
lowliness and meekness with long-suffering, kindly
and with Him is plentious redemption.
sparing one another in love, trying always to keep the
unity of the Spirit in the bound of peace. For we and He will redeem Israel
remember, always, that there is one body, and one from all his iniquities.
Spirit, one hope to our calling; one Lord, one faith,
From Together, May, 1963
IV
Before Aldersgate, Wesley had been very
ambitious to make much of John Wesley; but, he had
made too little of Christ...As a result, he had been
through some humiliating experiences in the thirteen
years of his priesthood. We must realize that every life
a
But out of these years of his f ilures, he was to learn belongs to God
that God must be "All and in All." and is His concern.
From "After Aldersgate-A Victorious Life" by We should think of what an Aldersgate experience
Bishop Ralph Spaulding Cushman would do for the neighborhood
in which a church is located.
William Temple said that
the only organization in the world
The heart of Methodism's heritage is the which exists primarily for those
prayer group. Local congregations may omit it, but it who do not belong to it,
can never be eliminated from the history and heritage is the Christian Church.
of Methodism. The church with such an experience
From: "Aldersgate Can Happen to You" will find endless ways to minister to those who often
by Asbury Lenox feel that the church doesn't care.
From: "Wesley's Aldersgate and Ours"
by Bishop James K. Mathews
From: The Book 20th Century Aldersgate
"In Christ Persons" by Ten Methodist Bishops.
At Aldersgate he (Wesley) finally found salvation in
Christ by a simple faith which he felt. This came from
the heart and not from the mind.
He became an "in Christ" person rather than
an "in scholarship" person. Aldersgate is a witness for all the ages that
Christ, thereafter, used the mind and the religious belief is made real through experienc e. All
knowledge of John Wesley as other beliefs stem from the fact of Christian experience.
never before.
Repentance is the preparation for—
He became an "in Christ" person rather than Conversion is the way to—
an "in church" person. The Witness of the Spirit is the seal of—
Christ used him to try to bring a new birth Perfection is the fruit of—
to the church of which he The Social Gospel is the result of—
was a priest.... Christian Experience.
He became an "in Christ" person rather than From: "Abundant Life Through Aldersgate"
by G. Ernst Thomas
an "in social reform" person.
Christ used him as never before to reform
These pages of preface to the History for Forrest
the nation and the new on
Burdette Memorial United Methodist Church have
which (His Spirit) was loosed.
been prepared in order that we, as Methodists, may
receive an insight to John Wesley, the founder of
We Methodists need to be "in Christ" persons. From:
Methodism, and the profound meaning his experience at
"What Aldersgate Means To Me"
Aldersgate made upon his life.
by Harry Denman, Together, May, 1963
V
Whitefield and the Wesleys were too much afire to
OUR ROOTS, OUR HERITAGE remain within the Church of England. When its doors
were closed to them, they took to the open air, John
Someone once said "We are unable to see where preaching and Charles writing the hymns of the revival
we are, nor can we see where we are going if we do in streets, barns and private homes and in the mining
not know from whence we came". Therefore, here pits of Cornwell, preaching repentance, regeneration,
follows a few paragraphs concerning the roots or justification, holiness and sanctification. The upper
heritage of a people called United Methodist classes laughed and the lower classes listened to
according to Frank S. Mead. --- the first words of hope they had heard in many a
It all began in England's formal old Oxford year. Converts came thick and fast and it became
University which has been called "the cradle of lost necessary to organize them into societies. The first
causes ", but at least one cause born there was not "Methodist Society " was attached to a Moravian
lost. This was "Methodism", known and ridiculed congregation in London in 1739 and later became
at Oxford in 1729, but claiming today, in the 90's, self-sustaining in their own quarters in an abandoned
8,940,836 lay members in the United States and government building known as the Foundry in 1740.
9,672,839 around the world. Between 1739 and 1744, the organizational
In 1729, the Oxford Methodist, also dubbed the elements of Methodism were instituted. We read of a
"Bible Bigots" and the "Holy Club", were a tiny group of "circuit system" and of an "itinerant ministry", of class
students who gave stated time to prayer and Bible leaders, of lay preachers and annual conferences.
reading. Prominent among them were John and There was phenomenal growth in membership, more
Charles Wesley and George Whitefield. They were that 26,000 Methodists worshipping in England,
methodically religious, talking of the necessity of Ireland, Scotland and Wales in 1767. Their impact
being justified before they could be sanctified and of upon British society was startling; the cruelties and
the need of holiness in human living, reading and barbarisms of the times were alleviated and a
discussing Millam Low's, A Serious Call to a Devout "French revolution" averted. It was primarily because
and Holy Life and A Treatise on Christian Perfection. of the lay movement.
The Wesleys, sons of a clergyman of the Church of Wesley did his best to keep the movement within
England, along with other members of the "Holy Club" the Church of England. An Evangelical Party grew
stood their ground against jeering students and within the church, but the greater numbers recruited
went out to preach and pray with the poor and from among the unchurched made a separate
desperate commoners of England, prisoners in jail, organization imperative. In 1739, Wesley drew up a
paupers in homes and homeless, "underdogs of a set of general rules which are still held by modern
British society that was perilously close to moral and Methodists and an ideal definition of Bible rules and
spiritual collapse". Methodism started on a campus conduct. A Deed of Declaration in 1784 gave legal
and reached for the masses status to the yearly Methodist Conference, but John
The Wesleys came to Georgia in 1736. Charles Wesley was dead in 1791 before Methodism in
came as secretary to General Oglethorpe and John England had the name of a recognized church, the
was sent by the Society for the Propagation of the Wesleyan Methodist Connection.
Gospel as a missionary to the Indians. It was an Meanwhile, the movement had invaded the
unsuccessful and unhappy two years for John Wesley. American colonies. In 1766, three lay Methodists,
In crossing to the colonies, John had met a group Philip Embury, Robert Strawbridge and Barbara Hick
of Moravians and became deeply impressed by their began missionary work in the American colonies.
piety and humble Christian living Later, when he Embury, an Irish lay leader preached in New York and
returned to London, he attended a meeting on inspired the organization in 1766, of the first Methodist
Aldersgate Street and heard Luther's preface to the Society overseas. Wesley sent Richard Bardman and
Epistle to the Romans and felt his heart "strangely Joseph Phumore to the colonies and in 1777, he
warmed" as the meaning of the reformer's doctrine, sent Francis Asbury who was destined to become
"justification by faith", sank into his soul. The the Father of American Methodism. In 1769, the New
evangelistic spark energized his life and started the York Methodists had built Wesley Chapel, today,
flame of the Wesleyan revival in England. From the known as John Street Methodist Church.
pious Moravians, via Wesley, came the emphasis To the south, Captain Thomas Webb, a veteran
upon conversion and holiness which are still the of Braddock's ill-fated army established societies in
central themes of Methodism.
1
Philadelphia and Robert Strawbridge started a revival Wetters and Freeborn Garrettson were circuit riders,
in Maryland and built a log cabin church at Sam's ministers on horseback, riding the expanding frontier
Creek. Deveraux Jarratt, a transplanted evangelical and preaching far up along the Potomac, called New
Anglican minister, led a revival in Virginia which won Virginia. The message was free grace, individual
thousands. responsibility and the need of conversion and
The true center of Methodism , in those days, regeneration. Their itinerant ministry was perfectly
did indeed lie in the South. Out of 3,148 Methodists in adapted to the democratic society of the frontier.
the colonies, in 1775, about 2,384 lived south of the The first circuit within West Virginia, Berkeley,
Mason-Dixon line. was formed in 1778. About 1784, Methodism began
Wesley, aware of the rapid spread of the movement to cross the mountains, into regions of "westward
in America, sent other missionaries to the colonies, flowing waters". The Redstone circuit embraced the
among them, Thomas Rankin, later the first area of the Monongahela Valley and by 1787, the
"superintendent of the entire work of Methodism in Ohio circuit (the Northern panhandle) and the
America". Rankin presided over the first conference in Clarksburg circuit (North Central West Virginia) were
America, attended by ten ministers, at Philadelphia in formed.
1773. There were about 1,160 Methodists Settlers in Monroe County organized a "society"
represented in the conference of 1773. near Union in 1784 and Rehobeth Church,
When the Liberty Bell rang in 1776, there were less completed in 1786, is still standing and is the oldest
than 7,000 in all the colonies, and they seemed Methodist Church building west of the Alleghenies
doomed to disappear as quickly as they had been John Smith organized the Greenbrier circuit in 1787
gathered. The majority of the preachers had come and was later ordained at Rehobeth by Bishop
from England and were incurably British and they Asbury in 1788 (the first ordination west of the
were so roughly handled by the patriots that by 1779, Alleghenies).
every one of them had fled to Canada or home to
England. Wesley's pro-British attitude aroused
resentment, and Francis Ashury, working almost
single-handed, had a difficult time keeping some of
the churches alive. But a miracle occurred' Of all the
religious groups in the colonies, the Methodists alone
prospered during the revolution. When the surrender
came at Yorktown, membership had grown to 14,000
with nearly 80 preachers. Wesley accepted the
inevitable and ordained ministers for the colonies and
appointed Asbury and Thomas Coke as bishops.
The formation of the Methodist Episcopal Church is
inseparably connected with three famous old
buildings, two of them still standing: Barratt's Chapel in
Delaware, Perry Hall near Baltimore, and Lovely
Lane Meeting House in downtown Baltimore. The
third, in which the organizing conference took place, is “Old Rehobeth Church" The logs were “scutched", or
long since gone, its location marked by a bronze roughly hewn, while the cracks were “chinked and
plaque fixed on a modern business wall. Barratt's daubed." Long after it was built the worshipers carried their
Chapel was the scene of the historic meeting of guns to church with them, that they might be prepared in
Thomas Coke and Francis Asbury shortly after the case of an attack from the Indians. A late r log structured
former arrived in America. The fine brick building church is still standing. (Hardesty’s History of W. Va.’s
takes its name from Philip Barratt, who gave the land Counties)
and, with the help of Waitman Sipple, built it in 1780.
Methodism not only swept through the cities, it
developed an amazing strength in small towns and The Methodist Book of Concern was established in
rural areas. Richard Owings and John Hagerty were 1789, providing the circuit riders with a religious
probably the first preachers bringing Methodism into literature which followed the march of the American
the eastern panhandle of West Virginia. William empire south and west. The camp meeting, born
2
among the Presbyterians, was adopted by the black preacher who sometimes traveled with Francis
Methodists and exploited to the limit. Its revivalistic Asbury, apparently preached in West Virginia as early
flavor and method were made to order for the followers as 1781. In 1786, the minutes of the Methodist
of Wesley and Whitefield. Conference began listing membership by "white and
The Methodist Protestant Church was formed in colored". The first West Virginia circuits recorded
1830 and the first Methodist Protestant Church in West black members. By 1788, Methodists in America
Virginia was at Hacker's Creek in Lewis County. Old numbered 30,809 whites and 6,545 blacks.
Harmony Church, erected in 1819, also, became Throughout its history, the Methodist Episcopal Church
Methodist Protestant at that time. included black members.
Further divisions occurred, when objections were The United Brethren in Christ were spreading the
made of the abuses of the system. In 1844, a Gospel in West Virginia as early as 1836 when two
devastating split came over the issue of slavery. preachers, Jacob Rinehart, presiding elder, and
From this division, came the Methodist Episcopal Moses Michall were sent from the Virginia Conference.
Church and the Methodist Episcopal Church, West Virginia Evangelical Brethren have direct
South. It was a split that concerned neither doctrine relationship with the work of Bishop Philip Otterbein. In
nor policy. It was purely political and social and it was 1840, a colony of Germans came into Braxton
a wound that waited until 1939 for healing. In that County from Otterbein's church in Baltimore, Maryland
year, the three branches were re-united at Kansas On June 11, 1969, at West Virginia Wesleyan
City, Missouri. College, the Service of Union created the West
The Episcopal Church split had a tremendous effect Virginia Conference of the United Methodist Church
on border areas such as West Virginia. Much of the which included the former Methodist and former
region became a no-man's land, which each United Brethren Churches as well as that part of the
denomination tried to make its own. Probably the former EUB Virginia Conference within the state of
most controversial was the Kanawha District which West Virginia.
included most of the western part of the State. (The The bishops, boards and committees of the United
last conference of the three separate branches and Methodist Church administer a fast growing global
the first meeting of the West Virginia Conference mission as well as the work in the United States.
was held in Fairmont in September, 1939.)
The Methodist Episcopal Church, South, organize
at Louisville, Kentucky in 1845, held its first
conference a year later in Petersburg, Virginia under
the presidency of Bishop James O. Andrew and
Joshua Soule. The Southern Church brought to the United Methodism Is……
1939 merger, three universities, 26 colleges, 20 In Fact
secondary schools and a membership of 3,000,000.
This branch of Methodism, as do all other branches, In the United States and Puerto Rico——
preach and teach doctrines of the Trinity, the natural
sinfulness of mankind, man's fall and need of 8,940,886 lay members
conversion and repentance, freedom of the will, 38,177 ministerial members
justification by faith, sanctification and holiness, 1,367,114 preparatory members
future rewards and punishments, the sufficiency of 37,514 local churches
the Scriptures for salvation, perfection and the 25,796 pastoral charges
enabling grace of God. Two sacraments, baptism 540 districts
and the Lord's Supper, are observed. 72 annual conferences
Historically, Methodists have never built 49 episcopal areas
theological fences or walls to keep anyone out 5 jurisdictions
Methodists have stressed the great foundation 3,873,654 persons enrolled in church
beliefs of Protestantism and offered common ground schools
acceptable to those uninterested in theological 1,197,609 United Methodist Women
trivialities.
members
Black persons were early associated with the
255,269 United Methodist Men
Methodist movement in West Virginia. Harry Hosier, a
members
3
In the Central Conferences——— LOCAL BEGINNINGS
In 1848, (fifteen years before West Virginia became a
732,003 lay members State) Putnam County was carved from portions of
2,742 ordained ministers Cabell, Mason and Kanawha Counties. Although settlers
247,959 preparatory members were recorded in the Hurricane area as early as 1771 , it
4,863 organized churches was not until 1815, when a small community began to
38 conferences form near the present eastern corporate limits of Hurricane
17 episcopal areas on Old Route 60, that records indicate that both Baptists
592,932 persons enrolled in church and Methodists held services in a log building used also
schools as a school house and public meeting place. (This
structure burned sometime around 1863 when a Civil War
Skirmish was fought in the area.)
In Mission——
729 international missionaries
350 national mission workers
333 short-term volunteers in
mission
13 schools of theology
15 colleges
11 hospitals
234 retirement & aging facilities
55 pre-school & child care
facilities
650 missionaries in 40 countries
The License of J. Mynes, an exhorter in the M. E.
Church South is hereby renewed by order of the
-
Quarterly Conference of Coal’s Mouth, Circuit of the
Charleston Dist. held at Hurricane Bridge, July 17th,
The influence of Methodism can hardly 1869. M. Briscoe P. E., P. M. Martin, Sect.
be measured by its size and spread. The The document above was discovered in a book,
Moses & The Prophets, Christ & The Apostles, Fathers
May 10, 1949, issue of NEWSWEEK said & Martyrs by J. E. Stebbins, published in 1867, owned
that: "Methodist strength lives not so by Carl & Agnes Henderson (which may have been in
much in figures as in the vitality of the the library of Forrest Burdette).
church itself......(its members) emphasize
brotherhood and friendliness in their
religion, unhampered by a strict theology,
they lead with their hearts instead of their In 1871, Collis P. Huntington began construction of
heads. a rail line from the waters of the Chesapeake to the
Ohio River. Hurricane Station grew up around the
With evangelistic passion for conversion local depot and railroad line. In the census of 1850,
and righteous living in the individual, on there were 455 farms, 4704 free inhabitants and 632
one hand, and a social passion matched by slave inhabitants in Putnam County. The Town of
few other Protestant bodies on the other. Hurricane was incorporated in 1888.
The Methodist Church has had an effect The first Methodist Society in the community was
upon the individual and upon society organized in the home of one of the members in 1890 and
which cannot be read in its statistics." theand
4
the present church emerged from that society. The
churches in the area were visited by circuit riders
and young preachers from Morris Harvey College in
Barboursville.
Following the organization of the first society, the
congregation worshipped in the Hurricane Baptist
Church for a number of years--each congregation
having part-time ministers. When special services
and events were held, members from both
congregations usually attended.
The Methodist Church, North, worshipped in a
building on Main Street on one of the lots now used From Hurricane Breeze
as a parking lot for the A-Z grocery store. The
church was later moved about one mile east in
Teays Valley and was known as the Rock Cut Church. Quarterly church conferences were held among all
The Liberty Methodist Episcopal Church, South, the churches that were in the charge under one serving
was located on upper Cow Creek. pastor. In 1911-12, the Hurricane charge included
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas (Vaturia Conner) Harbour Hurricane, Liberty, Mt. Salem and Mt. Olive led by M. C.
deeded the lot on Putnam Avenue to the Methodist Johnson, pastor. The following are excerpts from the
Church, South in November, 1899. Thomas Harbour minutes of the meetings held during the following years.
was born in 1845 and spent his entire life in Hurricane.
He was a lay minister of the Methodist Episcopal Huntington District, Western Virginia
Church, South for over 20 years (known affectionately Conference, December 23, 1911, B. M. Keith,
as Squire and Preacher.) Thomas and Vaturia were Presiding Elder in the Chair. Religious services were
the grandparents of Forrest Gordon Burdette. conducted by M. C. Johnson, Pastor of Charge.
Hurricane members present: T. M. Harbour, W. A. Bias
and I. Lipscomb.
E. C. Neumeyer from Liberty was appointed to
examine the church registers and records of Church
Conference.
W. A. Bias, I. Lipscomb, Scott Taylor were elected
Stewards of Hurricane.
Amount raised for the support of the ministry
and how it has been applied:
Hurricane P. C. 1.30 P. E. 2.00
Liberty 1.95 1.00
Mt. Salem .00 .00
Mt. Olive .00 .00
3.25 3.00
April 15, 1912, B. M. Keith, Presiding Elder in the
Chair. Religious services conducted by M. C. Johnson,
Pastor of the Charge. Hurricane members present: T.
Thomas and Vaturia Harbour
M. Harbour, F. G. Burdette and W. A.. Bias.
F. G. Burdette made application for license to
Records show that in 1906, the M. E. Church, South exhort. F. G. Burdette and E. C. Neumeyer were
was meeting the first Sunday night of each month at elected delegates to the District Conference. J. F.
the Baptist Church, Prayer meeting every Thursday Mynes and Edgar Chapman were elected attendants.
night and Sunday School at 10:00 a.m. each week with
B. M. Keith, Pastor
5
Amount raised in support of ministry and how it Scott is a new addition to the charge at this time.
was applied Funds raised in support of the ministry this
Hurricane P. C 11.25 P. E. 3.67 quarter:
Liberty 4.40 1.00 Hurricane 7.40
Mt. Salem 3.29 .00 Mt. Olive 3.45
Mt. Olive 15.20 .00 Mt. Salem .00
34.14 4.67 Scott 4.10
Liberty 15.24
Pastor of the Charge Report: 31.59
April 14,1912, for the president and members of
the Second Quarterly Conference from M. C.
Johnson, Pastor in Charge: August 17, 1912, B. M. Keith, Presiding Elder in
Dear Bret hren: the chair. M. C. Johnson, Pastor of the Charge, held
"The entire Charge seems to be on the religious service. Hurricane members present: W. A
upgrade and the spiritual state of the Church has Bias, Steward, F. G. Burdette, Steward, T. M. Harbour,
very much improved. Lay Pastor.
The people are hungry for the word and
response to it's truth. I have held our revival at Mt. Funds reported raised in support of the ministry:
Olive and have received the following named Hurricane 27.34
persons into the church: A. Rupe by church vow. Liberty 1.35
Pearl Searls by baptism and vow, Lola Talman by Mt. Olive 4.89
baptism and vow, John W. Lucas by vow, C. W. 33.58
Rupe by baptism and vow, Sophania Rupe by vow
and Lucy Rupe by baptism and vow. At Mt. Salem, Mt. Olive spent $24.78 for seating.
C. E. Ellis, baptism and vow, W. M. Ellis, vow, T. O. Stewards were elected for the two ensuing years:
Ellis, baptism and vow, Ora Mynes, baptism and F. G. Burdette and W. A.. Bias
vow, Dena Mynes, baptism and vow. Trustee: W. S. Lassie
If the Charge could be made self-supporting for a
while so as to enable the pastor to devote more time A very important committee was elected at the
to the work, we feel encouraged to believe that a conference for building a church at Hurricane:
good charge could be built up in a year or two." T. M. Harbour
F. G. Burdette
July 6, 1912, B. M. Keith, Presiding Elder in the W. C. Harrison
chair. Religious services by M. C. Johnson, Pastor of
Charge. From M. C. Johnson: T. M. Harbour of Hurricane was Lay Pastor for the
charge. He rode his horse to the other churches
Pastor of the Charge Report: when the preacher in charge could not be present.
Dear Brethren:
"I submit the following report and general state of
the church. During 1912-13, J. J. McKinnon served as the
The people are very attentive to the preached Pastor of the Charge. The quarterly conference
word. We find throughout this territory there are reports were submitted as follows:
quite a number of people who are friendly toward our
Church, and by careful work the charge could be built November 9, 1912, the First Quarterly Conference
up. was held with B. M. Keith, Presiding Elder, in the
The people seem to be enjoying a portion of the Chair. Religious services held by J. J. McKinnon,
Spirit in all our meetings. Have received twelve Pastor of Charge.
members into the church at Hurricane appointment
and feel that the outlook for our church there is better Roll was called:
than ever before in its history." W. M. Searls, Mt. Olive
Solicitors are now at work gathering funds to be A.. Rupe, Mt. Olive
used in the erection of a new church at that place. Albert White, Mt. Olive
6
Total amount raised for support of ministry was: Dear Brethren:
Hurricane 6.48 We are sorry we have no Sunday School or
Liberty 6.05 Leagues, but hope to be able to organize some in the
Mt. Salem 1.00 near future. We trust that the people of the circuit will
Mt. Olive 12.92 become aroused on the subject of Sunday School
Scary 1.00 work, it is very important.
Lone Oak 1.74 The spiritual state of the church on the circuit is
29.19 much improved at Hurricane. We held a meeting last
Lone Oak being a new church added to the Charge winter with Brother Carder helping us. There were
made six churches. fifteen conversions. We have not received any
Trustees elected: Albert White, Mt.. Olive members this quarter. No baptisms The interest in
Rev T. M.. Harbour, Hurricane general is very good. We expect to hold meetings at
E. C. Neumeyer, Liberty other places soon, and trust that we shall have good
John Harris, Scary success.
Lon Ellis, Mt. Salem
April 12,1913, conference held at Scary with B. M.
I. Lipscomb and Charles Leake were elected Keith, Presiding Elder, in the Chair. Religious
additional members of the Board of Stewards at services conducted by B. M. Keith.
Hurricane.
J. J. McKinnon, Pastor of Charge The
amount raised in support of the ministry:
(The quarterly conference was held in the country Hurricane 1.81
church at Mt. Olive. Members from the Hurricane Mt. Olive 1.00
church were unable to attend (not many of them had Mt. Salem .00
horses to ride), however, the members from t e h Scary 1.05
country churches had their own horses and attended Scott .00
in good number when the conference was held at Liberty 2.10
the Hurricane Church.) 5.96
Elected delegates to District Conference.
E. C. Neumeyer
March 8, 1913, the Second Quarterly Conference Forrest Burdette
of the Hurricane Charge was held with J. J. McKinnon,
There is no record of a Fourth Quarterly Conference
Pastor of Charge in the Chair. Religious service was
held and roll was taken. for 1912-13.
Edgar Chapman, Liberty, .Steward
E. C. Neumeyer, Liberty, S. S. Supt. Edgar P. Billups was the Pastor of the Charge in
Davis Black, Class Leader 1913-14.
October 13, 1913, First Quarterly Conference held
Amount raised in support of the ministry: at Hurricane, J. K. Moore, Presiding Elder, in the
Hurricane 20.46 Chair. Religious services held by J K. Moore. Roll was
Liberty 12.15 called:
Mt. Olive 12.84 E. P. Billups, Pastor of Charge
Mt. Salem 2.75 J. R. Neumeyer, Liberty, Trustee
Scary 7.70 F. G. Burdette, Hurricane, Steward
55.90
Amount raised in support of the ministry:
Pastor of the Charge Report: Hurricane 2.37
To the Chairman and Members of the Second Mt.Olive 1.60
Quarterly Conference of the Hurricane Circuit Liberty 2.00
Methodist Episcopal Church, South in session at Scary .25
Hurricane, March 8, 1913: 6.22
7
Pastor of Charge report: League at the country appointments because of
Dear Brethren: the distance some have to go to reach the church.
We own one church building at Mt. Salem and The Sunday Schools are not running now because
half interest in one at Mt. Olive (Baptist owned one of the winter. As soon as weather permits, we intend
half). At Hurricane, we worship in the Baptist Church. to open them.
"While the Baptist people are very kind to us, We have no Sunday School at all at Hurricane.
we do not feel as free as if we were in our own There is one school there and that is conducted by
church. We own a lot in Hurricane and by God's the Baptist people. We, however, have three or four
graces, we expe ct to build a church there this year." teachers and several children who attend this
The spiritual state of the church is very good at school. We have bright prospects for a Sunday
Hurricane, at the other appointments, it is not what it School and Epworth League when we get our own
could be, by far. church.
The prospects are bright for good meetings Supplement (B)
(revivals) at all appointments. There has not been a The spiritual state of the church is better than at
meeting for four years. It is my intention to begin a this time last year. We have received and baptized
meeting at Liberty, if God wills, on the third Sunday in five during the last quarter.
November. Those baptized were, Lola Burdette and Donald
ElIis at Hurricane; Mrs. Saunders, Miss Grace
Saunders and Miss Beulah Craft at Scary. We, also,
Epworth Leagues and Sunday Schools: lost one member, Virginia Keesaer of Hurricane, who
With the exception of Mt. Salem, the Sunday moved her membership to the Roan Street M. E.
Schools were kept up during the summer at Church, South at Charleston.
all the appointments, but were closed on the first of We have a u nion church at Scary and a school
October for the winter. house at Liberty. We expect to commence on our
It is my understanding that the Sunday School at church at Hurricane soon. The Ladies Aide have
Hurricane is a union school (both Baptist and organized and have raised over one hundred
Methodist together) and is kept up all year. There is ($100.00) on the church. Everyone is anxious for a
no reason for these other charge schools closing church and willing to help. I think we can easily build
so early. They could run until Christmas, at least. a church there.
It is our aim to get the people to see the importance
of the Sunday Schools, that the schools might be run
the year round. Members were quoted in the Hurricane Breeze
saying: "If we pray enough and work enough we
June 31, 1914, Second Quarterly Conference held can, with God's help, have our church..." “The
at Mt. Olive. H. K. Moore, Presiding Elder in the founders and supporters did pray enough and work
Chair. Religious services held by H. K.. Moore. Roll enough and the result was one of the most beautiful
was called as follows: and sound churches in the community. The church
Edgar Billups, Pastor of Charge was built in troublesome times right before and during
Alonzo Rupe, Mt. Olive World War I. It was not done with ease, but with great
Albert White, Mt. Olive sacrifice in the beginning and also, in later years,
William Searls, Mt. Olive when the church was remodeled and improved."
Total members reported for the charge was 86, two Money was raised for the churcb la Many ways.
houses of worship valued at $1,600.00. Two Sunday Mr. and Mrs. Ct. M. Woodworth hosted a "Sock
Schools numbering 120. $6.00 was raised by the Social" IN JANUARY . 1914. Socks were given out
Sunday Schools. and the person was asked to Multiply their sock
Pastor's Salary collected $28.06. size by two and place tbe cents inside the sock.
Forrest Burdette was elected Church Leader. The Ladies Aid pieced and quilted quilts, tacked
and wove rugs, had dinners and sold bottles of
Pastor of Charge Report: Supplement (A) flavoring to raise their “share” for the new
We have no Epworth Leagues on the work. It would building.
hardly be possible to conduct an Epworth
8
“A SOCK SOCIAL Supplement (B)
This little sock I give to you The church is in very good condition. The spiritual
Is not for you to wear; condition of the church is not as good as it could be. I
Just multiply your size by two have been sick the greater part of the last quarter
And place therein with care and have not been able to go to all of my
In pennies or in cents, just appointments. We have taken in one member, Ida
Twice the number that you wear Burton in profession of faith, and have dismissed one
(We hope it is immense) by letter, Mrs. Virginia Harbour Kessaer. We have a
So if you wear a NO. 10, Ladies Aide Society at Hurricane. The Society has
You owe us twenty-—see? about thirty members who are doing fine work. They
Which dropped within the sock, have raised about seventy-five dollars in the past
Will fill our hearts with glee. quarter.
Tis' all we ask---it isn't much
And hardly any trouble; July 9, 1914, Fourth Quarterly Conference held at
But if you have good sized feet, Hurricane, H. K. Moore, Presiding Elder in the Chair.
We'll surely charge you double! Religious services conducted by H. K.. Moore.
Now if you have a friend quite dear Following members were present: Edgar Billups,
You'd like to bring with you Pastor of Charge and T. M. Harbour.
Or if you know someone who'd come $25.17 had been raised for support of the ministry
We'll gladly give you two; So and $200.00 for church extension.
don't forget the place and date The following Stewards were elected:
We'll answer when you knock, And Forrest Burdette, Hurricane
welcome you with open arms, Dr. G. C. Roberson, Hurricane
BUT DONT FORGET THE SOCK. Albert White, Mt. Olive
J. T. Mynes, Mt. Salem
"The Sock Social proved to be an interesting affair. E. C. Neumeyer, Liberty
Many people from this town and other cities and towns B. O. Saunders, Scary
attended. After many interesting games were played,
refreshments were served. About $65.04 was made." Forrest Burdette was elected Recording Steward.
G. C. Roberson was elected District Steward.
April 16, 1914, Third Quarterly Conference held at C. H. Kent was elected Sunday School
Hurricane H. C. Britner in the Chair. Religious Superintendent at Hurricane. George Roberts at Mt.
services conducted by H. C. Britner. Roll was called: Olive, Edgar Chapman at Liberty and Samuel Specht
(location not listed).
E. P. Billups, Pastor of Charge Trustees elected were: Thorton Ellis at Mt. Salem
T. M. Harbour, Hurricane and Billy Searls at Mt. Olive.
C. W. Leake, Hurricane
F. G. Burdette, Hurricane Pastor of Charge Report: Supplement (A):
A total of $22.81 was reported raised this quarter in We have three Sunday Schools on the charge.
support of the ministry. $75.00 was raised for the The enrollment numbers about 125 and they are all
church extension. doing effective work. We have no Epworth Leagues.
F. G. Burdette and G. W. Roberts were elected (Youth group)
delegates to the District Conference.
Supplement (B):
Pastor of Charge Report: Supplement (A) The spiritual state of the church is very good. We
The Sunday Schools, which have been dormant have received four members during the past quarter:
during the winter, have just opened up for work. We Miss Erma McCann by baptism; Mrs. George Ellis by
have four Sunday Schools on the work and will be a letter; and Miss Nell Wise and B. D. Saunders by
credit to the church. It is our aim to encourage the vows.
young people, get them interested in the work and We raised $1400.00 by subscription for the new
keep the Sunday Schools running during the winter church at Hurricane, and now have the plans in
months. hand of the contractors. We expect to begin the
church as soon as we receive the bids.
9
Post Script: After reading this report, don’t you of property in the town limits.
just feel like shouting “PRAISE GOD”! Can’t you This church has been a great burden to its members,
feel the JOY? Praise God in Thanksgiving for but it will stand here, and its influence will live when its
those who worked so hard, made real Sacrifice to builders have ceased to exist here, and will ever be a
prepare a place to worship for the p eople called living monument to their sacred memory. Hurricane now
Methodist. TODAY, we have the same obligation has two churches, one in the South, and one in the East
to work bard and make sacrifices for future end of town, and if people do not give praises to the
Methodists to worship. great Creator, it will be their own fault. Let it be hoped
that the members of both churches may help each
Hurricane Breeze: Saturday, May 29, 1915: “The other and strive to enter in the Last Great Day, at the
M. E. Church South, which was begun several months same Gate."
ago is completed, and the first services in the new This church was built in the conference year of
building will be held tomorrow, Sunday. 1915 and 1916. Rev. Bruce B. Lambert was the pastor.
This is one of the most complete churches in this The stewards were: T. M. Harbour, G. C. Roberson, C.
section and its members deserve much praise for the H. Kent, C. W. Leake and F. G. Burdette.
noble work of undertaking such a structure, there not Sunday School Officers: F. G. Burdette, Supt., G. N.
being such a large number of members of this Dean, Sec., Dakota Rice, Treas., Mrs. C. M.
denomination in this immediate section. The Ladies Woodworth, Cradle Roll Supt.
Aid Society has been a great factor in helping to raise This church, costing about $4,000, with a
money for the building, and the people of all membership of seventy-six, was built by faith, zeal
denominations helped liberally in this as they do for and perseverance of its members.
every good that comes along in this community.
Hurricane people should be proud of this new church Charter members of the Hurricane Methodist
situated on Putnam Avenue just south of the Breeze Church, South were:
Office and should send up their thanks for this T. M. Harbour, Vaturia Harbour, W. A.. Bias, Forrest
building, which is only one more large link in a greater G. Burdette, Scott C. Taylor, Mrs J. H. Conner, Charles
Hurricane, and has helped to increase the value W. Leake, Mrs. Charles W. Leake, Warner Leake,
ofelped Frank Bias, I. Lipscomb, Mrs. I. Lipscomb, Mabel
Musgrave, Hilda Rumbaugh, Dymie Conner, Alva
Taylor, Bryan Conner, Lisle Peyton, Mrs. E. D.
Rumbaugh, E. D. Rumbaugh, Allie Taylor.
Garland Harbour, Stella Sharp, Mrs. Sarah E. Losee,
Lola Burdette, Donald Ellis, Mrs. Ida Burton, Mrs.
George Welker, Erma T. McCann, Mrs. George Ellis,
Susie Hall, Mollie Coffman, Clayo Lipscomb, James A.
Gary, Mrs. James Gary, Dr. G. C. Roberson, Mrs G. C.
Roberson, C. H. Kent, Mrs. C. H. Kent, Mr. Charles
Searls, Garland H. Dean, Dakota Tay lor, Mrs. L. V.
Rose, Virginia Grobe, Mrs. Kate Burdette, C. N.
Rogers, J. B. Thompson, John Ford, Mrs. John Ford,
Opie C. Searls, Anna L.. Bias, S. D. Wise.
The first Hurricane Methodist Episcopal Church Mrs. C. H. Hall. Marie Kinder, Mrs. C. E. Whitten,
South. The architecture was of the period with a Ouida Ellis, Marie McCallister, Mrs. Bertha Searls,
steeple and belfry in which hung the cast iron bell Mable Searls, Mrs. Callie Bridgeman, Mrs. A. M.
which is now rung at the beginning of our services, McCallister, C. M. Woodworth, Mrs. C. M. Woodworth,
75 years later. The exterior was concrete block with C. H. Hall, William Wallace, Herbert Burton, Belma
a copper roof. The interior finished with plaster Hall, Harvey Wood, B. L. Bias, Ethel Caldwell, Mabel
walls, oak wainscoting, oak trim and floors, The Kinder, Ceber Alford, and Zelma Williamson.
furnishings included oak pews and a beautiful
circular oak chancel rail altar. Stained glass windows
depicting the church symbols (anchor, lamb, dove)
were donated by members of the congregation.
10
Hurricane Breeze: Friday, March 24, 1916: Hurricane Breeze: Saturday, February 9,1918:
Hurricane, W. Va.
REVIVAL MEETING
Sunday School 10:00 A..M.
The Revival Meeting which has been in progress at
the M. E. Church South here for several days is
Preaching services 2nd Sunday of each month at
7:30 P. M. and 4th Sunday of each month 11:00 A. M. meeting with much success, and the church is filled to
and 7:30 P. M. its capacity each evening.
Much interest has been shown in the afternoon and
Prayer Meeting every Thursday 7:30. evening services, and people have been coming
Workers Council Friday 7:30 P. M. from the country regardless of the bad weather.
Evangelist Hanes has been delivering some masterly
Ladies Aid every Thursday afternoon.
sermons, and the instructions to the choir from Chorus
leader, Lifsey will be beneficial long after the
Special invitations are hereby extended to all to
meeting has been closed.
attend our services.
Many have been converted and the great good that
has been accomplished in the community, can no
B. B. Lambert. Pastor
doubt be seen for many months. Sunday marks the
F. G. Burdette, S. S. Supt.
closing days of the great revival, and a big day is
expected Sunday. To get a seat no doubt one will have
to get in early. The many friends that have been made
Hurricane Breeze: Friday, April 28, 1916: "Last
by Evangelist Hanes and Director Lifsey during their
Monday night, the " W illing Workers" Sunday short stay here will regret to see them go away Sunday.
School class of the M. E. Sunday School, South, was On account of the pressing call elsewhere for the
entertained by their teacher, Mrs. George Ellis, at the evangelist and his singer, they will be unable to stay
home of her sister, Marguerite Wise. The jolly girls here longer than Sunday.
and boys had all gathered at 8 p.m. and fun and A large crowd attended the Special Home Service
music ran high for two hours, then all made a charge Thursday evening. The solo sung by Director Lifsey
on the refreshment table and did ample justice to the "Will the Circle be Unbroken", was highly appreciated
dainties served. Violets and cherry blossoms were by the large audience."
used for decorations. Flash light pictures were taken
of the sixteen girls and boys, whom Mrs. Ellis declare
are the best looking girls and boys Putnam furnishes.
Several members of the class could not be present,
but when the hour for leaving came, all expressed
pleasure in the evening, and hoped to help celebrate
more "Easter" festives with their teacher. An Eye
Witness"
Hurricane Breeze: Saturday, February 2,1918:
REVIVAL
"A big Revival meeting begun Thursday evening
at the Hurricane M. E. Church, South. Evangelist, J
O. Hanes, of Birmingham, Ala., and Choir Director, M.
L. Lifsey are in charge of this revival. They came
here from Ashland, Ky. where they held a meeting
where they had one hundred and thirty conversions.
There will be four sermons in M. E. Church Sunday Forrest Burdette, teacher, of a one -room school
At 2:30, Evangelist Hanes will deliver a sermon to
men only, and ask all men to be present."
11
Hurricane Breeze: August, 1918:
A LETTER
From: F. G. Burdette
Tr. Det. Co. B.
State Fair Grounds,
Richmond, Va.
July 30,1918
To my many friends of the town of Hurricane and
the surrounding vicinity:
As time is the dearest thing in army life, I am using
this method of writing my many friends which
otherwise would be impossible.
In the first place I shall say this is a beautiful
country, there being quite a bit of level ground,
although very poor farming land but, strange to say
under these conditions, all the farmers have beautiful
homes.
This training detachment which gives mechanical
Forrest Gordon Burdette training and radio only, is situated on the State Fair
Grounds and we use the Exhibit Hall to eat and
Was born December 23, 1895, died October 3, sleep in, there being only eight hundred of us and we
1918. After receiving his early education at Hurricane, are all West Virginians too.
Forrest attended Morris Harvey College and taught Not wanting to boast, but, I must say that no
school in and around Hurricane. Some of his students Virginian is prouder of his state than we are of the
have shared with us some of Forrest's qualities: he rugged hills and valleys of old West Virginia. The
loved his family, especially his grandparents, and historic James is not to be compared with the beautiful
devoted so much of his time and talents to his Kanawha and Ohio, on whose bosoms have been
church. One of Forrest's friends wrote: he was a transported the many products that are blessings to
loyal Christian, a polished and cultured gentleman, a the whole world.
leader of men while yet a boy. He died at the age of While we love our state yet we love the "Stars and
22 years, 9 months, 19 days on the battleground Stripes" and are safe in saying that if we were given
where his grandfathers, Harbour and Burdette, fought the privilege to go home that the majority would refuse
during the Civil War. In a telegram sent to his until after this war is over. It is true that the soldier
parents by his commanding officer notifying them of boy has his dark days and we do not find things as they
his death, he said, "Forrest possessed qualities that are at home, most assuredly--but who can say that
made strangers respect him and friends love him". any man, woman, boy or girl doesn't have their dark
?
Another friend wrote: We first met him in prayer days in civilian life There are so many nice boys
meeting. We knew him as a Christian, visiting the here and as in civilian life, each boy finds his crowd
orphans and the widows, the first to the bedside of the for, "Birds of a feather flock together." We boys
sick, the first to appear upon a scene of death, the appreciate the good wishes, prayers, kind words, etc.
last to leave when anything was yet to be done. from those who are at home but I want to emphasize
On November 10, 1918, when the church was the fact that we do not want your sympathy, for, an
dedicated to his memory by Bishop U. W. V. American soldier is a man and does not need
Darlington, the Bishop said, " I feel that I am a better sympathy. Our "Fathers" sacrificed their service and
man by having known Forrest Gordon Burdette." some even their lives, that we might have our
?
submitted by Forrest Wellman for publication in the existence, and, how much better are we than they We
Hurricane Centennial Book. place ourselves upon the altar of service for you who
are at home and, that the un-born generation might
enjoy the liberties which we have had the pleasure of
enjoying
12
enjoying and if it need be we will spill our blood and Note: C. H. Rayl was known as the "singing
permit our bones to sleep beneath the sod of war- pastor". With a wonderful voice, he encouraged
ridden France for their great principles. I am sure that more singing and giving of skits and plays.
your editor will get tired of setting up so much type The Epworth Leagues were reported to be
so I will close. I want each one of you to consider growing and the Junior League growth required
this letter to you personally and I shall appreciate an dividing into two groups, the Junior and Primary
answer from any of you. Would love to write to all of Leagues with very good leaders.
you individually but, time will not permit but I want $100.00 was raised for repair of the church.
you to rest assured that I think of you often and
remember you when I talk to HIM who doeth all things
well.
Sincerely,
Forrest G. Burdette
Forrest Burdette played a most important part in
the history of the church. He worked tirelessly in
every project connected with the church. The
Methodist Messenger said of him in April, 1939:
"The most influential member was Forrest Burdette.
The church stands today as a memorial to the life of
that fine Christian man who died while young in years
but did so much for the building of the Kingdom of An early Congregation Meeting
God while he lived."
In 1928-29, B. Elmo Kelly served as Pastor of the
On November 10, 1918, the church was .
Charge; W. H Withrow, Lay Leader; W. M. Black,
dedicated to the memory of Forrest Gordon Burdette Sunday School Superintendent; C. M. Woodworth,
who died on October 3, 1918. At the dedication. Gladys Henderson, Mrs. C. H Hall, C. M. Woodworth,
Bishop U. V. W. Darlington said: "I feel I am a better M. H. Withrow, and W. M. Black, Stewards; W. P.
man by having known Forrest Burdette". Davis, C. A Henderson, and C. M. Woodworth,
Trustees; Mrs. C. M. Woodworth, President of
Missionary Society; and Irene Hamilton, President of
Records are not available for the following years Epworth League.
until 1927-28 when C. H. Rayl was the Pastor of the The Pastor's salary was raised to $600.00 for
Charge. the year.
C. A. Henderson was the District Steward, Church (From the Pastor's Report) The general state
Steward and President of the Epworth League; C. M. of the church is good. There is a spirit of worship
Woodworlh, Steward; Ben Kiff, Sunday School Supt.; and sincerity manifested.
C. W. Leake, W. H. Leake, and B. L. Burdette, Four separate Church Conferences were held with
Trustees; W. H. Withrow, Lay Leader; and Mrs. C. M. a fair attendance and good interest shown.
Woodworth, President of the Women's Missionary General plans for the future are:
Society. 1. To work for better attendance in all departments.
The Sunday School classes were reported to be 2. We feel the need of a revival of religion in the
growing under the leadership of fine Christian leaders. church and community.
3. We hope to strengthen our deficiency in
organization and work.
During the first quarterly conference, Ben Kiff, 4. To draw nearer to and do greater work for GOD.
C. M. Woodworlh and C. A. Henderson were Note: And we still strive for these same goals
appointed to consider a new parsonage. TODAY!
13
was the beginning of the "Great Depression”.
Many of our members had lost t h e i r jobs, and
it was really a struggle to meet the bills as they
came due. God provided a way even though
thoughts and plans for building new Sunday
School rooms had to be put "on hold" and it
would be ten vears before this was
accomplished.
In 1929-30, E. B. Spears was Pastor of the
Charge; W. M. Black, Sunday School
Superintendent; W. H. Withrow, Lay Leader; H C.
Graham, Epworth League President; Mrs. L. W.
Easter. President Missionary Society; W. P Davis,
C. W. Leake, C. A. Henderson, C.. M. Woodworth,
and W. H. Leake, Trustees; H. C. Graham, G. S.
Sowards, W. H. Withrow, Mrs. B. Burdette, and C. M.
Early Church Gathering Woodworth, Stewards.
Note: In the early days, most of the reports of
the various departments were oral, therefore, we
The flu epidemic raged in the community during the do not have a record or a clear picture of the
first quarter of this year. However, during the activities of the church. Some of the pastors
remainder of the year, Sunday School attendance insisted on written reports from heads of the
increased. departments, but not many.
The church held revival, 23 members were recorded
during the second quarter, Sunday School
attendance doubled.
Note: Two members of this revival remain
active and loyal TODAY, Ruby Conner Pullen
and Agnes Burns Henderson.
H. C. Graham was confirmed as president of the
Senior Epworth League. The pastor reported great
interest in the prayer services and commended the
young people as responsible in the Christian activities
of the church.
The pastor noted the present physical equipment
"barred" doing the work. The Missionary Society
pledged to raise the finances of the church. S. S. members include: Opal Leake, Faye Miller.
The goal for the year was to raise in full the Mrs. C. M. Woodworth, Iva Faulkner. Iris Leake, Laura
conference claims as well as salaries. Lovet & others.
Lay Leader, W. H. Withrow, reported 30 to 35 at
prayer meetings. Young converts were enthusiastic to
help all grow in the faith.
The Sunday School membership was listed at 130
Note: Pastor Elmo Kelly was a very fine with average attendance about 75. The church
young pastor just out of Morris Harvey College, membership was 118, the Epworth League, 35, and
a Methodist supported college at Barboursville. Missionary Society, 9.
He worked very hard and the people loved him as
a person and for h i s leadership. The church
was experiencing low financial support as this
14
The parsonage committee stated: "That upon Trustees elected for the Hurricane church were:
investigation, advice, and opinion of the church C. M. Woodworth
membership, and those interested in the W. P. Davis
church, the opinion of this committee is that W. H. Leake
the church building should have the necessary C. A.. Henderson
repairs, now very much needed, and an addition to W. H. Withrow
the church in the way of Sunday School rooms
before considering the purchasing of or erection of The Pastors Report stated: During a revival in
a parsonage." N. R. Rupe, Chairman, C. A. Henderson, the third quarter, "ten souls" were saved with prayers
W. P. Davis, W. H. Withrow, and Mrs. C. E. Whitten. for many more to accept the Lord.
We wish to express our thanks for the Pulpit Bible
which was presented to our church by the Willing
Note: N. R. Rupe family came from Mt. Olive, Workers Class, also for the hundred new song books
still known as M. E. South even though the donated by the various organizations.
Hurricane Church was known as Forrest Burdette
Memorial. Note: Although at the first quarterly
The parsonage committee was discharged and conference the pastor's salary was set at $600.
a committee to repair and enlarge the church for the year, he was not always paid the full
and build Sunday School rooms was appointed: amount. First quarter, $100., second quarter,
C. A. Henderson, W. M. Bailey, W. H. Withrow, Mrs. $30. plus $32.62 for incidentals, third quarter,
C. E. Whitten, W. P. Davis, and Mrs. Nannie McCann. $79.50, and fourth quarter, there was no report.
Note: Merrits Creek Church in Cabell County W. H. Withrow was elected Lay Leader, Mrs. N. R.
added to the charge this year. Rupe, Director of Golden Cross and Edith Easter
(Roberts) was confirmed as President of Senior
League.
In 1930-31, Okey Summers was the Pastor of
the Charge. The charge had a membership of 156
at the beginning of this term. Two churches were In 1931-32, Fred Oxendale was the Pastor of the
valued at $4,500. The pastor's salary was set at Charge which was called the Bethesda-Hurricane
$600.; $60. for the Presiding Elder; $600. for Charge.
Conference work, $320. for general work and The Board of Stewards estimated the budget: $1,000
$100. for extension of the kingdom. for support of the preacher in charge, $125. for his
W. M. Black was serving as Sunday School assistant, $70. for the Presiding Elder, General
Superintendent who reported an average attendance of 87 Conference, $400, District work, $1000. (Bethesda,
during the second quarter of the conference year. $400 and Hurricane, $600).
Mrs. Ed Bowyer and Mrs. Easter were confirmed as
the Temperance & Social Service Committee.
A revival service was held during the third quarter
and five persons were added to the church by
baptism and vows.
The Pastor's Report: Brethren: As a review of
the year, let me state that the charge has received
by baptism and vows ten members and by vow,
one- a total of eleven members.
The Epworth League at Hurricane has before it a
better prospect of life than it had at the beginning of
the year.
Wm. M. Black. S. S. Supt. & song leader for The Sunday School at Hurricane has increased
many years during the year, one third in attendance.
The Missionary Society at Hurricane, wholesome in
mem
15
membership (12), is an active missionary spirited Note: "He Huffed & He Puffed" discouragement,
group. but God's people held fast to their faith, sacrificed
We have marked with great pleasure among and loved their God and each other through the
these people this year, we have seen that unselfish dark days of the Dig Bad Wolf" (The Great
Christian spirit prevailing among some of our Depression). Forrest Burdette Memorial United
people. Methodist was alive and well! (Many members who
While finances of the church are not as we had gardens contributed vegetables, fruit, and other
would like to see them, yet our prayers are that food stuff to the minister and to each other during
God will keep to see, and to find, as time goes by, these trying times.)
that greater Christ like spirit.
Churches in the Hurricane Charge, at this time. Since efforts to continue with year to year data
were: have been hindered, the history continues thus ----
Hurricane
Bethesda
Bryant Chapel
l,ower Creek In 1936, the former Liberty Methodist Church,
(located on Cow Creek) was moved from the country,
The Years of the “Big Bad Wolf” repaired and joined to the main building of the church.
(The 1930’s Great Depression) Rev. I. N. Fannin was the Pastor. That building was
named Epworth Hall and served as Sunday School
Collections for November. 1935 classrooms and a small kitchen for church dinners
Forrest Burdette Memorial, M. E. Church South The building was later sold and moved to another
location on Virginia Avenue.
Bayliss, Mrs. M. E. …………… $2.00
Billups, Iris ............................. 1.00
Coyner, Mrs. G. W. …………. 1.00
Easter, L. W. …………………... 1.00 Hurricane Breeze: Friday, February 27, 1936:
Fannin, Mrs. I. N. ……………. 1.00 YOUNG PEOPLE’S DAY
Harbour, Garland F. ……… …… 5.00
Hedrick, Lula M. ................... 5.00 Sunday, March 1, 1936, 7:30 P.M.
Henderson, Carl ...................... 5.00 M. E. Church, South
Neal, Mrs. W. S. ..................... .25
Ramsev, Miss Irene .................. 1.00 Prelude, "Take Time to be Holy"
Rice, Mrs. H.E. ..................... 1.00 Call to Worship
Sowards, G. C. .................. 7.00 Prayer
Smith, Hannah F. ……………… 1.00 Hymn, "Jesus Calls Us"
Woodworth, Albert ………… 2.00 Scripture Reading, Isa. 6:1-8;
Woodworth, C.M. ........... 8.00 Psalm 1
Woodworth, Mrs. C. M. ……. 3.00 Announcements Offertory
Woodworth, Mary L. ………... .25 Introduction of Theme, “Discovering God’s
44.50 Plan for my Ijfe
Special music, "My Task" -- Virginia Handley
Balance on hand November 1st $10.75 Geka and Gail Stover
Col lections as above 44.50 Talk, "God's law with us" -- Jimmie Turner Poem,
"Obedience" -- Opal Martin
55.25 Talk, "How do we find God's plan for our
Paid to I. N. Fannin $55. 00 1
lives " Clarice Smith
Challenge. "Are ye able" -- William Black
Balance on hand $.25 Benediction
Everyone is cordially invited to attend.
December 2nd 1935
G. C. Sowards, Treas.
16
Hurricane Breeze: March 6,1936: Hurricane Breeze: Friday, December 25,1936:
FORREST BURDETTE MEMORIAL Christmas entertainment will be given at both the
METHODIST CHURCH Baptist and M. E. Church, South, here Thursday
evening at 7:30 o'clock.
I. N. Fannin, Pastor
Forrest Burdette Memorial
Church School at 10:00 a.m. Mr. J. E. Billups, M. E. Church, South
genera] superintendent.
We are trying to bring our attendance up to normal. "The Little Church With A Big Heart"
To this end, we trust that every one will be present
next Sunday.
Owen E. Mercer, Pastor
The pastor will preach Sunday morning at 11:00
o'clock and Sunday evening at 7:30. Morning theme,
Sunday School at 10 a.m. J. E. Billups, general
"Seeing the Unseen", and evening theme, "The City
that voted Jesus In." Young People's meeting, superintendent.
Epworth League at 6:30. Prayer meeting eac h
Morning worship 11 o'clock. Sermon subject:
Wednesday evening at 7:30, special program. I have
often wondered how people calling themselves "Transformed By Grace."
Christian can get along in their Christian life and never Intermediate League 5:30 p.m., Miss Agnes Burns,
go to prayer meeting and rarely ever attend church counselor.
unless it is a funeral service. It is observed that they Young People's League 6:30 p.m., Miss Gail Stover,
can go anywhere else they want to go. President leader.
Harding said, "I should like to see America a religious Evening Worship 7:30 o'clock, Theme for pastor's
nation. I wish every man in America would attend message: "Christ's Call To Youth."
church. A trio composed of Misses Gail and Jeka Stover and
Miss Laeuna Rumbaugh will sing "Transformed" at the
morning service.
Hurricane Breeze: Friday, May 29,1936:
The evening service will be dedicated to the
children and the young people of the church. A
candlelight installation service will be conducted for
FORREST BURDETTE METHODIST CHURCH
the officers of the new organized Intermediate League.
I. N. Fannin, Pastor
Church School at 10:00 a.m. Mr. J. E. Billups,
general superintendent. Please let everybody be in
their class with a friend or a visitor, we should have a
hundred and twenty-five present. The Young people
meeting, Epworth League, will meet at 6:45 p.m. The
pastor will preach at 7:45 p.m. Theme, "The
significance of Memorial Day."
Prayer meeting each Wednesday evening at 7:45.
We are glad to announce to the people of Hurricane,
the coming of Miss Olive Gentry, a dramatic artist, of
Los Angeles, California. Miss Gentry will be at the
Forrest Memorial church for one of her great
entertainments Friday evening, June 5th. She is a
nationally known artist, and all of our people should
hear her. Tickets will be sold in advance at very
Rock Cut Church
reasonable price.
17
In 1938, The Rock Cut Church (located on At first, we felt that this was an impossible
property across from the Hurricane High School, undertaking. But by some very generous
today) was destroyed totally from the foundation by contributions and assistance from our official board,
a freak twist of nature (possible tornado). It was we raised our quota.
during this same time period that the "North" and The Personal Home Visitation Evangelistic
"South" factions were becoming the united Campaign was assigned us from Area
Methodist Church. Many members of the headquarters. We worked on this more or less
congregations of the Rock Cut and Liberty according to suggestions given us. We experienced
Churches joined Forrest Burdette Memorial some great blessings. I believe it greatly helped our
Methodist Church. workers, and it also increased our attendance. But
as to results in numerically adding new members
by conversions etc, I cannot feel it was a success.
In 1939-40, a new addition containing We observed the Week of Dedication and made
classrooms and a choir loft was added to the west a follow-up of same with our revival meeting. Our
side of the former sanctuary. Concrete blocks were revival was well attended and we experienced
sold to members and friends of the congregation to unusual success. All told, we had fifty-one accept
pay for the new addition. Rev. H. L. Phillips was Christ for their first time or re-dedicate themselves
Pastor. anew to Him. Many of these joined our church.
Several were of Baptist constituency and joined the
Baptist Church.
In 1940 to 1945, Rev. Holly O Shamblin served Our vacation Church school averaged 65 for a
as Pastor. The Pastor's Report in 1943 states: two week period. This is the first year Hurricane
"Last Fall, we were asked at Hurricane to raise has ever attempted to conduct more than a week of
$150 to go to the West Virginia Wesleyan College such school."
State Bond liquidation.
riTTVU tat UHiltm •inl^ •• thM* fa *r *t*M E I rTMft A >M, Mr »*4 •«*«• G**rj. Inp.r t.M «Mrf». «n Ml SMrto
•VI *»#- C«n*f. fc^ Mrf Mi aittrr. Hn MR. !>•• KM A •*» JOT *•»*•». Nn Hrrtb «*vta> Mn C
I* TV turn by !*•• €»)••*, Jr.
18
The church membership was 233 and church school
enrollment, 218.
In response to ministers and their families
for the 75th Anniversary, Darrell Shamblin sent
the following response:
The Shamblins spent five happy years in Hurricane,
during the World War II years. In fact, I can recall
sitting in the living room of our home—the church's
parsonage—as our family heard the news on the radio
about the attack on Pearl Harbor. Our first thoughts
were, "Will Dad have to go to war?" Had the war
continued a bit longer, I would have been drafted
myself!
We moved from Hurricane to Point Pleasant in the
Fall of 1945, just after I had begun my senior year at
Hurricane High School and it was with mixed
emotions that I moved with the family to graduate in
Point Pleasant. (Some of the members there
volunteered to let me remain in their homes to
complete that final year of high school, and although I
Brother Irvin Conner, one of our finest young men,
decided to move with the family, I felt this gesture
has answered the call of the Master to preach the
showed real appreciation for our family.)
Gospel of our Lord. Brother Irvin's call brings us to
I would like to be there with you to celebrate. But I
the climax of a joyous year in God's work.
think my Mother, Claris, who lives in Ohio, will be
(Ruby Pullen's brother).
there, along with my sister, Geraldine, and her husband
who live in an Indianapolis suburb. Others of our
In 1944-45, Pastor Shamblin was active in
family are Donald (and family) who live in Cherry
religious instruction both in the elementary school and
Valley, California, where he teaches languages in high
junior and high schools. In cooperation with the other school and college and Marlin (and family) who live in
churches of town, a union Thanksgiving service was Sidney, Ohio, where Marlin teaches languages in high
held and offering taken. "There being no known school.
needy people in our immediate vicinity, we My mind races back to the five great years where
saved the money until Christmas time and we were active in Methodist Youth Fellowship (at the
purchased flowers for the shut-ins." The Methodist local church, district, and West Virginia Conference
and Baptist ministers, assisted by some interested levels). Names come to mind include Billy Hall,
laymen went from house to house and presented George Coyner, Joe Coyner, Elizabeth and Connie
these shut-ins with a well selected and wrapped potted Banks, Marion Sovine, Charles Duke, Irvin Conner,
flower. Lillian and Mae Rose Sowards and Neva, etc, etc.
Many adults also are remembered from Sunday
School, church, and mid-week prayer meeting. Some
of these folk are deceased now, I would gather, and
many of the younger ones no doubt have scattered in
their professions.
My own adult life took me to Korea (in the U.S.
Army) and in communications work for our church in
Pittsburgh, Chicago, Evanston, 111., Dayton, Ohio, and
since October, 1986, Nashville, Tenn. Suzanne and I
have three children—two boys and a girl. One of the
boys will be getting married in late October. Both
boys are college graduates and the daughter, Holly
(named for her grandfather
1945 Bible School Class include: Alice Gibson, Thelma
Sovine, Faye Miller, Opal Coyner, Mae Smith, Claris
Sharablin,
19
(named for her grandfather), is half-way through group that is cooperative and willing to do anything
college. As for myself, I am three years from the pastor asks them to do. They have the church at
retirement age and can't believe that the years heart in every respect. Their financial contributions
have gone by so rapidly. As I said earlier, our last are above the average in the church as a whole.
year in Hurricane was in 1945—forty-five years ago
this year! A considerable amount of money was raised
I don't know if this will be read or summarized , but for necessary repairs and equipment. The
however the words are shared, please consider balance of the parsonage debt, which was
this letter a heart-felt appreciation to all for your around $240 was paid off. A new Hammond
friendship with the Shamblin family. Sept. 20,1990. organ was purchased, boug ht equipment for
the parsonage and had money on hand to build
a garage.
Church membership in 1952 totaled 271.
Sunday School membership was 225 with an
average attendance of 183. With a 23% increase in
attendance, the greatest need expressed was
adequate class rooms for the Primary Department.
The Rev. Holly O. Shamblin Family
From 1945 to 1948, Rev. Ralph T. McCord
served as Pastor. In 1946, $1,000 was borrowed
from M. E. Bayliss to purchase a house on the
corner of Virginia Avenue and Conner Street to
be used as the church parsonage . (That
property was sold in 1962.)
The general state of the church, at this time The Mentz Family
was expressed as being "rather low". The pastor
attributed concern about members and their feelings
toward one another. But, by June, 1948, the pastor During the pastorate of Rev. Ira Mentz in 1953, an
related an increase in attendance in all phases of educational addition was begun. A Building
work. Committee was elected: E. A. DeFrehn, W. M. Litton,
After a two week revival, eight new members were D. O. Gibson, W. L. Clark and Clarence VanDyke. A
received into the church: five by profession of faith Building Fund Committee was also appointed: Basil
included Jane Graham, Arlene Pullen, Laura Jo O'Dell, Herbert Gibson, W. H. Miller, Carl Henderson
Neely, Judith Gibson, and Lowell G. Wise. and Joseph Ridler.
The church was valued at $8,000 and the In July, Albert F. Tucker, Architect of Huntington
parsonage at $4,000. Total members 240, church was retained to draw plans for the new proposed
school, 212 with average attendance 108. educational building. In January of 1954, a campaign
was held to raise $30,000 for the construction.
Pledges totaling $43,291. were made for the
In the Pastor's Report of 1949-50, by O. S. new structure. The addition provided classrooms,
Donohoe, "We have among our Active Members a multi-purpose hall, and kitchen.
group
20
Rev. Tom and Mrs. Peggy Schuler
Rev. Tom Schuler served Forrest Burdette
Church from 1957 to 1961.
Loyalty Dinner: Front: Rev. Morman Parker, Basil O'Dell, In 1962, additional classrooms were added, new
Rev. Ira Mentz, Faye Miller; Back: Carl Henderson, Dr. heating system installed, and a new parsonage at
William Knox, Dist.. Supt., S. W. Thomas, C. M. 304 Ada Dell Avenue was purchased. Rev. Alien
Woodworth Parrish was Pastor. During the week of September
16-20 the Church engaged in a campaign to raise
Building for a Century was the campaign for $50,000. On this goal, more than $45,000 was
this expansion of Forrest Burdette Church. Church raised in cash and pledges. (The project was
leaders expressed the nation's problem as the completed and in 1965, the indebtedness totaled only
"religious education of the youth of America. $24,000. The committee for fund raising included:
The future of the church, home and state is Basil O'Dell, General Chairman, Mrs. C. M.
dependent upon the present generation's ability Woodworth, Honorary Chairman, Ransford Ransom,
to anchor successfully the minds of the future Mrs. Donald Rowsey, Alien Parrish, Mrs. Harry
generations into moorings of basic religious Shanklin, C. A.. Henderson, W. L. Clark, J. B. King, W.
fundamentals. This can be done only by M. Litton, W. R. Durham, Charles Duke, E. E.
impressing in the child's mind today, Christian Valentine, D. O. Gibson, Homer Canterbury, C. J.
ideals. The literature continued to say: "Only Van Dyke, Ronnie Bennett, Jack Burdette, Jack
occasionally do we experience the exhilaration which Kessler, Jack Saunders, Kenneth Fisher, Mrs. Betty
comes from engaging in a really ennobling Newsome, and Gordon Wise.
undertaking. Surely the provision of suitable religious
facilities for ourselves, our children and our children's
children challenges the best there is in us. This is
OUR OPPORTUNITY——this is OUR HOPE."
Note: "What shall we render unto the Lord for all
His benefits?"
The New Parsonage on Ada Dell Avenue
(Note:) Each time the church experienced a need
for expansion and improvements, the congregation
attended organized Loyalty Dinners to hear the
plans and to pledge a commitment to the funds for
the project. Usually, the conference sent an
origanizational chairman to assist with the
campaign. There were Division Majors assigned to
designated family units in the church.
Laura Jo Smith, Wanda Allen, Opal Leake, Thelma Wise
McElroy, Mary Ann Wise
21
Loyalty Dinner: Carol Rowsey, Morman Parker, Basil Charles Duke, Dennis Gibson, Homer Canterbury,
O'Dell, Anna Woodworth, Back row: E. E. Valentine, Ronnie Bennett, E. E. (Boots) Valentine, Bob Beaver
Alien Parish, Ransford Ransom, Jack King, Carl
Henderson
Cooks & Servers, loyally Dinner: Front: Virginia
Valentine, Gusta Burns, Dorotha Black, Alice Hall, Billie
Saunders, ?, Opal Ransom, Bertha Krenzin. Back: Mary
Hill, Carol Rowsey, Hilda O'Dell, Bonnie Parrish, Jo
Anne Sovine, Roberta Abbott, Deloris Breedlove, Sybil
Edwards.
Note: Forrest Burdette United Methodists:
Jack Burdette, Jack Kessler, Betty Newsome,
Billie Saunders, Gorden Wise, Don Garrett proclaiming grace and freedom; claiming the
past, celebrating the present, challenging the
future. A congregation always looking to the
possibilities for ministry.
22
The 50th Anniversary of the building of the church
was held on June 6,1965.
FROM REV. ALLEN PARRISH:
Greetings to you as we close our first fifty years of
service to Christ and the Hurricane community.
Beginning with a few faithful members, we have
grown to more than four hundred members. There
have been wars and a great depression, good times
and bad times, and days of discouragement, and
days of spiritual refreshing. God has been good to us
and our church.
Faithful ministers have stood at the sacred pulpit and
proclaimed the Gospel of Christ. Good laymen have
carried the responsibility of the church in matters of Summer Class Get-Together: Ivan Coyner, Rev. Alan
finance, teaching, and organization. Many of them Fairish, Bonnie Parish, Allie Coyner, ?, Anna
have claimed their heavenly reward. In the wake of Woodworth, Bertha Krenzin, Mrs. Withrow, ?, Alice Hall,
their going, we who remain share the challenge of a ?, Mrs. Roach, Mrs. Black, Sallie Burns, Mrs. Williams,
great heritage. It is no small thing to share the heritage Mrs. Goldschmidt
of the people who call themselves Methodist.
Set today in a growing community, we face our next
half-century with hope and confidence. Knowing that
the God of our fathers has aided those who have
gone before, we know that He is able to sustain us,
and to make us profitable servants in His Eternal
Kingdom.; In the name of Christ, we bid you
welcome to our church, its services and its varied
activities. "Come with us and we will do thee good."
n
Easter Sunday Worshipers i clude: Mrs. Fred Hypes,
Paul Lane & girls, Mabel Burdelte, Judy Grass, Mae
Smith, Mildred Graham, Hilda O'Dell, Janet Fisher
A Welcoming Church in Hurricane
23
Forrest Burdette Memorial Methodist Church Order of Worship 11:00 AM
2848 Putnam Avenue Phone 562-6418
Hurricane, West Virginia
June 6,1965
Prelude
FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY * Call To Worship
* Hymn 176
AND HOMECOMING 1915-1965 * Responsive Reading "The Way of Good Men" 589
* Gloria Patri
Order of Worship 8:30 AM * Affirmation Of Faith
Anthem
Prelude Scripture Lesson From Acts 2
Call To Worship Prayer
*Hymn 162 The Lord's Prayer
* Responsive Reading "The New Covenant" 589 Choral Response
* Gloria Patri Announcements
* Affirmation Of Faith Offeratory
Anthem * Presentation Of Offering
Scripture Lesson and Prayer - Choral Response * Hymn 179
Announcements Sermon Rev. Sherwood W. Funk
Offeratory Retired Minister from Kentucky
* Presentation Of Offering Annual Conference
* Hymn 381 * Hymn 286
Sermon Rev. Ira Mentz * Benediction
Associate Minister * Choral Postlude
Highlawn Methodist Church
Huntington, West Virginia
* Hymn 402
* Benediction
* Choral Response
* Postlude
___________________________________________ ___________________________________________
* Congregation Stands * Congregation Stands
We welcome former members and friends who
worship with us today. You are invited to join us for West Virginia Annual Conference convenes
all the activities of the day. After the 11:00 o'clock Wednesday morning at 10:00 o' clock on the campus
service, dinner will be served. of West Virginia Wesleyan College in Buckhannon.
EVERYONE IS REQUESTED TO REGISTER.......
A year book for the fiftieth anniversary has been
prepared and you are welcome to your copy today.
24
Rev. Joseph and Mrs.fRuth) Byrd served the provide much needed additional parking. Those
church from 1965 to 1971. Their dedication and serving on the committee were: James Matthews, Mrs.
service to the Lord's ministry in Hurricane is still J. P. Byrd, Mrs. C. M. Woodworth, K. M. Lowe,
remembered by many. Mrs. Byrd could be seen Joseph P. Byrd, Mrs. Dennis Gibson, Charles Duke,
working around the church day and night, sweeping, Kenneth Fisher, Mrs. Tom Hall, Albert Woodworth, R.
singing, visiting, babysitting for circle meetings or W. Ransom, Robert Beaver, Dr. J. B. King, Everett
cleaning up. Byrd Hall and Ruth Byrd Circle will Carter, Dr. W. R. Durham, Mayo Lester, Mrs. Iris
continue to remind us of their faithfulness. Billups, Webster Counts, Rollie Hill, Jack Gibson,
Gerald Leadman, Phil Hyre, Norvall Mallory, Floyd
Ramsey, E. E. Valentine, Darrell Alien, Homer
Canterbury, Frank Barberine, Dennis Gibson, and
Harry Shanklin.
The New Parsonage, Putnam Avenue
In 1967, the Ada Dell Avenue parsonage was sold.
The Dr. Erwin property, one of the oldest houses in
town, adjacent to the church property, was
purchased to provide additional parking and to
serve as a parsonage. (The property was originally
a part of the Conner family farm.)
Loyalty Dinner: Alice Hall, Alice Gibson, Anna
Note: A man named Max Conner began Woodworth, Second Row: Red Lowe, Morman Parker,
construction of "Asbury House" in the late 1870's Ransford Ransom, Charles Duke, Jim Matthews, Rev.
to become the future home for his bride-to-be. Joseph Byrd, Robert Beaver, Mrs. Ruth Byrd.
The bricks were hand-fired on the Henderson
property on Main Street. Mr. Conner fell ill just
after the framework was finished and work
completely stopped on the house. The house was
not finished until about the late 1890's. A family by
the name of McGhee provided room and board
from this house in 1906,for the workers
building the second track of the Chesapeake &
Ohio Railway. Mr. William McCallister secured the
property and his son, Cline made extensive
improvements in the early 1920's. Dr. H. A.
Erwin purchased the property for his residence.
From November 27 to November 30, 1967, the
church raised $40,000 to pay off the indebtedness
of $15,000, to purchase the additional property and loyally Dinner: W. R. "Bud" Counts, Jack King,
Mayo Lester, Everette Carter, 1967
25
Parking lot Dedication, Choir Directed by loAnne
Loyally Dinner: lack Gibson. Floyd Ramsey, Bud Adkins, Rev. Joseph Byrd. Pastor. Members: Betty
Leadman. Rollie Mill. Phil Hyre, 1967 Newsome. Peggy McClanahan. Phyllis Lovely
Collins, Janet King, Jackie Craigo, Norval Mallory,
Charles Duke. Allen Parrish. Ransford Ransom. Hilda
O’Dell. Eileen Holdren
Loyalty Dinner: E E. "Boots” Valentine. Dennis Gibson.
Darrell Allen, Harry Shanklin, Homer Canterbury. 1967.
Kindergarten Graduation 1971
A kindergarten for five year olds was established and
taught by Mrs. Evelyn Hatfield, assisted by Mrs. Connie
Dawson, community residents. Graduation 1971.
Parking Lot Dedication May, 1970
26
Construction pictures follow:
NEW SANCTUARY GOING UP -- The congregation of
the Forrest Burdette Memorial United Methodist
Church in Hurricane h opes to worship for the first
time in their new sanctuary in May -- certainly by mid-
year. Talking it over under the huge laminated
beams with construction foreman James Prince:
Mayo Lester, chairman of the church building
committee, John W. Chapman, who was present
when the first cornerstone was laid 60 years ago, and
the pastor, the Rev. Charles W. Hinkle. -- Daily Mail
Photo by Adrian Gwin.
Rev. Charles Hinkle came to Hurricane in 1971
to "build a Church". The community was growing
and the church conference recognized that
leadership would be required to raise funds to build Dedication Held July 1,1974
a new sanctuary which would accommodate the modern life.
expected growth for the Hurricane church.
In 1973, The original Forrest Burdette United The Building Committee was Mayo Lester, Burl
Methodist Church sanctuary was razed. The new Neely, Co-Chairmen, Robert P. Gregory, Samuel H.
construction included the church, a nursery, offices, Holdren, Norval Mallory, R. Lyle Smith, Howard C.
narthex, basement with social hall, kitchen and Smith and Clarence J. VanDyke.
restrooms. Estimated cost, $286,000. The Building
Fund Committee resigned to ask the 286 family
units for a $1,000 pledge.
The contemporary design for the new sanctuary
speaks to all who enter and all who pass by that God
in Christ is at the heart of our contemporary society.
He remains the answer to the deepest needs of our
27
In 1974-75, 415 members were reported on the building fund. We are encouraged by what we see
minutes of the Charge Conference (December 30, happening in our Church School. We can be
1974). Rev. Samuel Starling, Jr. was the Pastor. thankful for the wealth of leadership potential we
have among our people, and for their willingness to
From the Pastor's report: a volunteer secretarial accept responsibilities of leadership. We do not sec
pool was established to assist with communications to the numbers we remember from the "good old
the congregation. days". However, we have a staff of dedicated
Pastorial calls, visitation and counseling were workers committed to Christ as well as to the
listed as priorities. Community religious survey was children and adults of our church. That, coupled
conducted in co-operation with the Baptist and with the power of the Spirit, must result in quality
Nazerene churches. Christian education and spiritual growth.
The 1975 (December 30) report listed 429 Response to the cause of world hunger
members, an active Council on Ministries, church continues to be most gratifying. The Council on
renewal seminar and a growing commitment in the Ministries and the United Methodist Women are
congregation. developing plans for dialogue with the people of
Ebenezer United Methodist Church which ministers
to many.
In 1978, the former Quails -Hodges properly
located on Virginia Avenue was purchased with
five "Faith Partner Pledges" received for down
payment. The home became the parsonage. (The
property was originally a part of the Conner Family
farm. The house was built by Mr. and Mrs. Judd
Quails in 1906. Mr. and Mrs. Warren Hodges
purchased the property and house and remodeled
before selling to Forrest Burdette Church.)
Rev. William D. Slates
The New Parsonage on Virginia Avenue
Children's Time became “Very Special.” Included are:
David Danner, Holly Ferris, Tiffany Bennett, Bill
Alexander, Lee Simmons, Brian Andrews.
From January, 1976 to December, 1978,
church membership grew to 469. Rev. William D. The Cross - A Special Memory
Slates was the Pastor.
From the Pastor's report: Giving showed an
increase of 36% on the budget and 62% on the
28
FROM WILLIAM D. SLATES:
Reflecting on my ministry while at Forrest
Burdette, I will always be thankful for one of the
most unique times in my ministry. Serving in West
Virginia where we continue to experience a
declining economy with loss of population, it was
an opportunity to be a part of a situation where
there was phenomenal growth. New people were
moving into the community everyday. I often said
that all one needed to do was open the church
doors and the people rolled in. What a great
challenge and opportunity for evangelism and
proclaiming the Good News. There is none other
Rev. Bill Deel
like it in the West Virginia Conference.
What was so rewarding to me was that the
In 1979, from the Charge Conference report,
people of Forrest Burdette were anxious and "Exciting is the word that describes my feelings
committed to meeting that challenge. I felt
about this church. All we need to do is raise our
surrounded and supported by a host of lay persons
visibility, continue to visit, and show people that we
equipped with a host of talents, gifts, and graces to are a caring church, offer them programs that meet
meet, with effectiveness, the great opportunity that
their needs, and involve new members in the life of
God had placed in their midst.
the church."
All that was symbolized for me one day when the During these six years, the music ministry was
cross that hangs over the chancel of your
superb, the sanctuary debt was retired, additional
sanctuary arrived. It had been ordered for some
property for expansion was purchased and the
time, and the people had been anxiously awaiting community was very much aware of the ministry of
its delivery. When it came, the church secretary
Forrest Burdette from the beginning of the
called some folks to tell them. As I remember the
Community Cupboard and a service to assist the
situation, that very day several came to the church, jobless.
and what a thrill and a blessing we had as we
hoisted that beautifully crafted contemporary cross
into the air. There it hung, seemingly suspended in
air, speaking to us of our Christ who has been the
hope of all ages past, but is as contemporary as
the growing community where we were called to
minister in His name. I often think of that day!
May God's richest blessings continue to be with
you and the good people of Forrest Burdette
Church. March 10,1991
Note: The Bronze Cross which is hanging in the
Sanctuary was purchased by an insurance
endowment from Wade F. Hill, son of Mrs. Erma
McCann Hill, grandson of Mrs. Nannie McCann and
nephew of Mrs. Garnet McCann who regularly
attends Forrest Burdette Church today.
Rev. Jan Oldham Tbornton, Associate Pastor
From 1979 to 1985, Rev. Bill Deel served as
Pastor. Membership grew from 469 to 537 not Jan Oldham was hired as Director of Visitation
including preparatory members. Records were in 1980 and later served as Associate Pastor (in
updated to have an accurate accounting of member 1981). She later became a Pastor of the United
rolls.
Methodist Church. A pre-school was opened for
three and four year-old children. Teachers and aids
were employed and a Board of Directors was
elected.
29
In 1981, the budget increased 30%. The shepherding of the Master Plan, renovation of the Christian
program was established and support for missionaries Education Building and Asbury House, were
was initiated by the United Methodist Women. The completed. (Phase I I , an addition to the
church received recognition from the United Methodist sanctuary, and Phase I I I , administrative offices ,
Conference of West Virginia, Conference Church of multipurpose building and prayer chapel were put
the Year. on hold.) Just Older Youth, JOY, (a retired person's
A "Year 2000 Committee" was formed to fellowship) was inaugurated. Financial plight was
evaluate the future needs and direction of our recorded, suggesting leaders institute a serious
church. This committee evaluate d the many stewardship program.
possibilities for our future and developed a
consensus along with the congregation. This In the Pastor's report: The church has the
consensus was to remain at our present site, potential for becoming one of the great leaders of
secure additional property, and expand the this conference. All that is required is dedication and
facilities to meet future growth. The property hard work on the part of the congregation and
of Dakota Rice, to the east of the sanctuary, guidance and support by the district and the annual
was purchased for additional parking. conference. Given that support and reinforcement,
Forrest Burdette will move forward in God's Kingdom."
Cris Wagoner was hired as Christian Education
Director in 1982. The church doubled its budget from
the previous four years.
In 1983, Sunday School attendance increased due
to the excellent leadership in terms of resourcing and
training provided by Chris Wagoner." Additional
property, owned by Dr. Samuel Henson, was
purchased to be used for parking. The church hired
an architectural firm, Gandee, Thomas and Sprouse, 1986 Cherub Choir
to prepare a 20-year master plan for development of
our facilities.
1986 Youth Choir: Leigh Anne & Bill Alexander, ?,
Susan Hyre, Robyn Marcum, Jennifer Litton, JoAlan
Erwin, Angela Ogle, Cynthia Hyre, Mitch Clendenin
The Samuel Henson property, owned previously by
Postmaster Griffith was purchased and retained as rental
property until October, 1987 when it was demolished.
In 1984, Stewardship and reactivation of inactive
membership were the emphasis programs. Sunday
school attendance averaged 186, among the top six JOY Fellowship: Carl & Mae Smith, Maxine Hunt, Sam
Holdren, Ruby Pullen, Harry & Margaret Shanklin
in the conference. Renovation of the education
facilities and Ashury House was undertaken.
In 1985, Forrest Burdette was 50th in size in the
West Virginia Annual Conference but was 10th in
average attendance at Sunday Morning worship. Phase I
30
From 1986 to 1989, Rev. Robert P. Johnson was A New Life Mission and an Adventure in
Ihc Pastor of the Charge. Membership increased from Discipleship were conducted through the Board of
537 to 590. The Sunday School recorded over 200 Discipleship.
in average attendance. A new church sign with the church's full name was
The missionary support, early child education, JOY made for the main church building.
program and Community Cupboard programs were Wednesday Night Live, a family program that
stressed. averaged about 100 in attendance, was begun and
In 1987, "Flood Relief assistance was a priority. much enjoyed.
The Age-Family Ministries group promoted Much of my ministry was spent in pastoral calling
Wednesday Night services for all age groups. A and counseling, 5,408 calls.
Singles Ministry, open to the community, was We are glad that God permitted us to pass that
organized way and to know some of the finest people in the world.
My community involvement was the ministerial
association, the bicentennial steering committee, the
Adopt-A-Highway program, and the Hurricane
Planning Commission.
May the CHURCH be blessed in its years to come.
August, 1990
Forrest Burdette Church Welcomed Bishop and Mrs.
William Boyd Grove and District Supt. and Mrs. loan
Bowyer in 1988 with a reception hosted by Rev. and
Mrs. Robert lohnson and the congregation.
FROM ROBERT P. JOHNSON:
Alma and I were pleased to be a part of the history
Alma and Robert P. Johnson
of Forrest Burdette Church. We felt that we were there
during a very significant part of the growth of the
church. Some say that the church was at the right
place at the right time. The church had a ministry 1989 to the present with Thomas J. Bickerton
focused on people. Forrest Burdette is a caring as Pastor. In the 1989 Pastor's report, the
church that ministers to the community through the estimated value of the church, Asbury House,
members. furnishings, land and equipment was $1,344,300;
While we were there, 26 weddings and 25 parsonage and property, $115,678. The total of full
funerals were conducted. There were 45 children, and associate members was 645. The Year 2000
youth, and adults baptized. 165 persons were Committee was dissolved. The theme of the Church
received as members. Conference was "What Would Christ Have Us to Do?"
The church acquired the properties on either side
of the church, contributing greatly to its appearance In 1990, membership totaled 693. From the Fall
and also its future possibilities. A van was purchased. Planning Retreat, church leadership stressed the
A new heating & cooling system was installed at statement, "The Mission of Forrest Burdette Memorial
the church and parsonage, making both much more United Methodist Church is to unite the Body of Christ
comfortable. The pre-school playground was in a way that fulfills the spiritual needs of the
completed and the plans were well on the way for the household of faith and leads others into the fellowship
garage to house the van and pastor's car. of God's love by: invitation and example, worship and
sharing, prayer and obedience, learning and nurturing,
and outreach to all."
31
Members of the congregation celebrated 75 A commemorative service to recognize long
years of caring ministry since the construction standing members was held on the organizational first
of the Hurricane Methodist Episcopal Church, Sunday in June. From the 1920 and 30’s, Carl
South. Henderson, Gladys Henderson, Edith Easter Roberts,
Agnes Henderson, Hubert Ellis, Albert Woodworth,
The 75th Anniversary Task Force, Karen Lilly, Ruby Pullen, Alice Gibson, Beulah Kerns, Midge and
Chairperson, David Bobbitt, Grace Boggess, Harold Chester Mynes were listed.
Crawford, Kim Dunlap, Linda Gihson, Carl and Agnes Ladies of the church, Doris Clark, Garnet McCann,
Henderson, Joe McMillion, Earl Miller, Barbara and designed a quilt with the first sanctuary and present
Steve Morrison, and Billie Saunders earnestly planned sanctuary and the cross and flame, symbol of the
with the many work area committees to make the year United Methodist Church. Jean Herman, Alice Gibson,
of 1990 a joyous Celebration of the past, present and Evelyn Warner, and JoAnne Sovine helped with the
future. quilting of the outstanding wall hanging which was
presented to the church for display throughout the
A local artist, Tony McCallister, was commissioned year.
to design a commemorative seal which would depict
the church's growth since 1915. Tony McCallister
chose pictures of the church buildings during those
years and combined the structures within the logo to
impress the image upon the mind's eye, not only of the
physical growth but the spiritual growth within the
community.
75 Years: Garnet McCann (left), JoAnne Sovine,
75th Anniversary Logo Evelyn Warner, lean Herman, Alice Gibson and Doris
Clark bold the commemorative quilt.
"Blasts from the Past" were written to inform the
congregation of the rich heritage of Forrest Burdette
Church and the community became aware of the
Celebration when the children's department planted a
marigold garden in the shape of 75 on the front lawn
of the church. Brenda Duke McBrayer wrote a drama presentation
for the combined Sunday School Classes and on
the week end of September 22-23, 1990,
members, friends, former pastors, favorite sons and
daughters and community well-wishers joined in a
celebration of games, music, food, stories, praying and
preaching.
Sunday morning services were led by Rev. Tomas J.
Bickerton, pastor, William D. Slates, Thomas W.
Schuler, Bill Donohoe, Harold Crawford, James
Burdette, former ministers and friends and Leo C.
Farley, Charleston District Superintendent.
32
Supt. Leo C. Farley Rev. William D. Slater
Rev. Thomas W. Schuler
James Burdette
Tom Conley, Sherman Burlingame, David Shanklin,
Pat McBrayer
“Tom in Jail” “Tom in Pies”
33
Jean Herman, Bernice Sovine, Roberta Abbott, Tom Davis, Darrell Black, Don Rowsey and
Joan Bancroft, Edith Mangus Ted Black
Carl Henderson
“Memories” Agnes Henderson, Linda Swann,
Alice Gibson “Happy 75th Birthday”
520 attended the services and dinner on the
grounds was served to 325 joyous persons
who were entertained by Don Rowsey and
Friends. After sharing cake and ice cream,
those present shared memories and witness of
75 years of loving and caring ministry.
34
ORDER OF CELEBRATION
Sunday, September 23, 1990 The Sixteenth Sunday after Pentecost
11:00 a.m.
"God has been good to us and our church. Faithful ministers have stood at the sacred pulpit and
proclaimed the Gospel of Christ. Good laymen have carried the responsibility of the church in
matters of finance, teaching, and organization. Many of them have claimed their heavenly reward. In
the wake of their going, we who remain share the challenge of a great heritage. It is no small thing
to share the heritage of the people who call themselves Methodist." -Rev. Allen Parish (reprinted
from the Fiftieth Anniversary Yearbook, June 1965)
The Ringing of the Church Bell Bob Litton
The Prelude Barbara Cole
The Lighting of the Altar Candles Acolytes
The Greetings and announcements
-The Registration of Attendance
The Introit "This is the Day" Choir
*The Call to Worship Leader and People
(L): We have come today to celebrate the birthday of our church!
(P): We have gathered to celebrate the gift of ministry that has been ours for seventy-five years.
(L): We have come to celebrate God's grace that has guided us and to open ourselves to God's Spirit
that it might fill us for our future.
(All): O God, help us to put our selfish desires aside and direct our thoughts to you, that your power
might fill this church and our lives fully, just as it has filled churches and people throughout the
ages. Teach us today to be YOUR church and YOUR people. Amen.
The Opening Hymn of Praise "O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing" No. 57
The Prayer of Celebration (In Unison)
Gracious God, the excitement and joy of this day surrounds us. How long we have prepared
for this hour! Help us to remember that it is not our own doing that brings us here, but only your
grace and love. Your love surrounded us in 1915 when our ministry in this place began. Your love
has been present in your word and in the words and acts of others for seventy-five years now.
Your love will guide us into our future as a church family. For this we give you thanks. Teach us
to walk gently in your path of love, seeking justice, making peace, cherishing one another, and
nurturing faith in all who enter our doors. Enliven our imagination that we might see through
present challenges to future newness. Remind us of your presence, that we may truly celebrate
this special occasion and, in turn, renew our commitment for our future in ministry. In joy we offer
you our praise. Amen.
The Children's Moments (as the Children come forward, let us sing "Jesus Loves Me")
The Anthem "Let Us Celebrate" Choir
(Nancy Price & Don Besig)
There are roads that each of us must travel, though we may not be sure where they lead. But our Lord is
always there to guide us He will give us the confidence we need. We are bound together in His spirit, and
we know we are never alone. We have share His love and understanding, and our faith and fellowship have
grown. Let us celebrate, let us celebrate and give thanks to the Lord for showing us the way. Let us
celebrate let us celebrate, let us celebrate the journey which has led us here today. Though at times we
may have been discouraged, we have known that our god was always near. He has kept us strong in times
of trouble; He has helped us keep our purpose clear. From a dream we shared with one another, we have
traveled together to this place where God's love is everywhere around us, and we rest securely in His
grace. Let us celebrate, let us celebrate and give thanks to the Lord for showing us the way. Let us
celebrate, let us celebrate, let us celebrate the journey which has led us here today. But we know the
journey is not over, for the work of the Lord is never done. We will meet the challenge of tomorrow with our
hearts and voices joined as one! Let us celebrate, let us celebrate and give thanks to the Lord for showing
us the way. Let us celebrate, let us celebrate, let us celebrate the journey which has has led us here today!
Come, let us celebrate!
35
*The Gospel Lesson Luke 24:44-55
*The Ritual of Friendship
The Epistle Lesson Philippians 1:3-27
The Sermon "Precious Memories and Heartfelt Dreams" Rev. Bickerton
The Litany of Commitment Leader and People
(L): Lord, you have never waited for us to become perfect before showing us the measure of your love, or commissioning
(P): We dare to believe you are always calling us to a new venture; pointing us to new
horizons in ministry, and will never cease to do so.
(L): This is a task Lord, we cannot do alone; we need you as our guide, and the love of each other.
(P): On this occasion of our seventy-fifth anniversary as a church family, we therefore claim
the privilege of committing ourse lves anew to your service.
(L): With your help we will hear one another's burdens, and love our neighbor as ourself.
(P): We will accept disappointment and frustration, opposition and rejection, and not lose
heart.
(L): We will love your world as you love it, bring friendship into our work, and courage into our
politics.
(P): We will bring freshness into our homes, excitement into our studies, and adventure into
our church.
(L): Create in us a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within us. Stir into flame the gifts you
have given, and the faith to use them without reserve.
(P): As your disciples make us know the freedom to move into the unknown and the
untried, to see the opportunities of the new day, and to serve our present age with
compassion, imagination, and courage.
(ALL): LORD, BE WITH US UNTIL WE HAVE DONE OUR PART AND SHARE YOUR JOY. AMEN.
*The Hymn "Blessed Assurance" No. 369
The Baptismal Covenant No. 33
The Reception of New Members
The Joys and Concerns of the Community
The Pastoral Prayer
The Lord's Prayer (In Unison)
The Sharing of Our Gifts
The Offertory Bill Warden
*The Doxology "Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow" No. 95
*The Invitation to Christian Discipleship
*The Hymn of Invitation "God of the Ages” No. 698
*The Benediction Tune: EDELWEIS
May the Lord, mighty God, bless and keep you forever. Grant you peace, perfect peace, courage
in every endeavor. Lift up your eyes and seek his face, and his grace forever. May the lord,
mighty God, bless and keep you forever.
Bless, O Lord, as we part, f i l l us with joy and thanksgiving. May our hearts, flow with peace,
ready to serve and obey you. Friendship and peace may they bloom and grow, bloom and grow
forever. Bless us now, bless our friends, bless a l l people forever. Amen.
*The Postlude Barbara Cole
__________________________________________________________________________________
(* - Congregation Standing)
36
OUR LEADERSHIP TEAM
The Accompanist: Barbara Cole
The Special Music: Bill Warden
The Acolytes: Heather Wyatt & Mary Casey O'Dell
The Greeters: Don & Carol Rowsey, Joanne & Bob Sovine, & Jan Rowsey (Backdoor)
The Infant Nursery: Laura Tarvin
The Toddler Nursery: Debbie Cunningham
The Lay Leader: Harold Crawford
The Secretary: Carol Kessler
The Liturgists: Former Pastors and Friends
The District Superintendent: Rev. Leo C. Farley
The Pastor: Reverend Thomas J. Bickerton
The Ministers: The Congregation
OUR ATTENDANCE
(Week Of August 19)
Early Worship (8:30): 58
Mid-morning Worship (11:00): 316
Sunday School: 198
Sunday Night Worship: 48
Wednesday Study: 55
ABOUT TODAY'S HYMNS
No. 57 O For a Thousand Tongues to Sing
Among the most celebrated of Charles Wesley's texts, traditionally the first hymn in our hymnals, it has
become Methodism's "anthem." It proclaims God's saving grace and invitation to Christian disciple-ship, and it
is Charles Wesley's personal testimony, written on the first anniversary of his own heartwarming experience in
1739.
No. 369 Blessed Assurance
Fanny Crosby, the blind nineteenth century gospel hymn writer, wrote over 8,000 texts. One day Fanny's
friend, Phoebe P. Knapp, composed a tune and played it for Fanny. Immediately Crosby said that the tune
suggested the words "Blessed Assurance, Jesus is mine" and within a short time she had completed the text.
Blessed Assurance is one of the ten most popular hymns among United Methodists. It was written in 1873.
No. 698 God of the Ages
Written for the centennial of the United States on July 4, 1876, Daniel C. Robert's text, originally with the first
line "God of our Fathers" has become one of the most loved national hymns. It is a prayer for safekeeping
and righteousness with the beginning and ending notably acknowledging God as leader.
If you are a visitor at Forrest Burdette Church today, we greet you in Christian joy and love.
Thank you for coming to worship with us t h i s morning. As we continue to share the joy of
God's love each week, we invite you to journey with us! As sisters and brothers in the faith,
WELCOME to God's house and our home of worship!
THANK YOU!
There are always many appropriate occasions for the church to celebrate jobs that are well done. This is
one of those days. Special thanks are expressed to Karen Lilly, Chairperson of the 75th Anniversary Task
Force for her tireless efforts and special attention to the smallest of details. Sincere thanks is also expressed
to the each of the 75th Anniversary Task Force Members for their faithful participation and suggestions. Also,
a special thank you goes to Nancy Connelly, Chairperson, and all the members of the Age-Level & Family
Ministries Committee who organized yesterday's activities. We also express thanks to our United Methodist
Women for coordinating today's meal. Last, but not least by any means, we wish to thank all of you who made
significant contributions to make today's service and celebration a success. From table setters to stage toters,
37
from actors to singers, from grass cutters to hedge trimmers, from cleaners to musicians, from bulletin stuffers
to door knockers, we simply say thank you from the bottom of our heart. There are quite simply, too many of
you to mention for fear of leaving someone out. But please accept our heartfelt thanks for a super job and a
terrific contribution to a very memorable day.
The Future of Forrest Burdette
38
From the Pastor's report in 1991, over 100
persons were involved in a DISCIPLE weekly Bible
Study, two additional staff persons were hired. Rev.
Charlie Thompson, Associate Pastor, and Becky
Bickerton, Program Director. A second morning
service was initiated at 8:30 a.m. Average attendance
for morning worship was over 400 and Sunday School,
235. Church membership grew to 772. Forrest
Burdette Memorial Church was suffering from "growing
pains". Pastor Tom stated. "I don't ever want any of our
growing pains to stand in the way of our wonderful
opportunity to be the church that God called us to
be,...not any of them! All I pray for daily is that Forrest
Burdette Church might focus itself not on the minor
issues, but on the BIG picture and to become the kind Thomas J. Bickerton
of church that was present in the days of the New
Testament, a church that "with great Power.....gave their experienced twelve presidents and literally thousands of
testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great innovations and developments. As a church, over the
grace was upon them all." (Acts 3:33)". past seventy-five years, we have experienced three
different buildings, thirty-two pastors, and hundreds of
fellow Christians. Seventy-five years is truly quite a long
In 1992, a committee, Vision 2020, was appointed to time.
discuss the growth of the church, the programming and And yet, it's really only a beginning. Much has been
future expansion required for the ongoing of the accomplished in the name of Jesus Christ in this place.
ministry of Forrest Burdette Memorial United Methodist Converts have been won, buildings have been built,
Church. The Vision 2020 committee includes: Merrild programs have been established. Yet, the Holy Spirit
Hoover (1994), Chairperson; Clarence Woodworth continues to blow it's mighty breath of life into this
(1993), Facilities Sub-committee Chairperson; John place, calling us to win new souls, build new
Call, James Martin, John Giles, Joe McMillion (1993), buildings, and continue reaching out with programs
Leonard McCoy, Lea Ann Hunt, Jennie Counts (1994); that minister to the people of this wonderful area. One of
Becky B i c k e r t o n (1993) Program Sub-committee the greatest gifts our Lord has given us is the gift of
Chairperson, Debbie Rexrode, Gloria McCane, Monty looking back and learning from our history. One of the
Vickers, Carol Miller (1993); Nathan McBrayer (1993) greatest challenges before us as disciples is to use that
Philosophy/Goals Sub-committee Chairperson, Joe history as we walk boldly into the future in Christ's
Schock (1993), Rob Proffitt, Don Kinneer, Betty Wilson, name. This book represents the heart of Forrest
Suzy Richardson, E. E. Valentine, Julie Cramer, Jack H. Burdette Memorial United Methodist Church: it's people.
Gibson, Larry Wagner (1994). Through the faith, witness, and hard work of it's people,
Forrest Burdette continues to be a vital, growing
church. Through the presence of the Holy Spirit that
The goals of t hi s committee include a
binds us together in Christian love, we call ourselves a
comprehensive plan for the ministry of Forrest Burdette
church family. Through the commitment and dedication
Memorial United Methodist Church into the twenty-first
of the people of Forrest Burdette, we will continue our
century.
call to be a faithful community of word and witness.
I'm proud to have the opportunity to be your pastor.
FROM REV. TOM More than that though, I'm thrilled to have the
opportunity to continue our journey together as
Seventy-five years is quite a long time when you Christians into the twenty-first century in the name of
begin to think about it. It encompasses two World Jesus Christ our Lord.
Wars and at least three other military conflicts. It has The journey continues.....
39
PASTORS
HURRICANE METHODIST EPISCOPAL Entering the Ministry, by way of Forrest
CHURCH SOUTH Burdette United Methodist Church are the
following:
Sept. Sept.1906 B. M. Keith
Sept.1908 Sept.1909 J. B. F. Yoak Francis Kiff, early 1940's, United Brethren
Sept.1909 Sept.1910 Arden P. Keyser
Sept.1910 Sept.1911 Subscribed Irvin Conner, 1942, United Methodist
Sept.1911 Sept.1912 M. C. Johnson
Sept.1912 Sept.1913 J. J. McKinnin Darrell Sovine, during 1950*s, Church of God
Sept.1913 Sept.1914 Edgar P. Billups
Sept.1914 Sept.1917 B. B. Lambert Jan Oldham Thornton, 1982, United Methodist
Sept.1917 Sept.1918 Orpha R. Casto
Sept.1918 Nov. 1918 O. M. Ball Leo Pauley, 1983, United Methodist
FORREST BURDETTE MEMORIAL Mike Amory, 1983, United Methodist
METHODIST EPISCOPAL
CHURCH SOUTH James Burdette, 1986, United Methodist
Nov. 1918 Sept. 1920 O. M. Ball James Dumire, 1987, United Methodist
Sept. 1920 Sept. 1921 Harry F. King
Sept. 1921 May 1922 A. L. Burgreene
May 1922 Sept. 1922 Sherwood W. Funk
Sept. 1922 Nov. 1923 Austin A. Hollister The Sunday School Ministry
Nov. 1923 Sept. 1924 J. E. Wright and of Forrest Burdette
C. D. Harsh
Sept. 1924 Sept. 1925 Sherwood W. Funk John Wesley was a constant and determined enemy
Sept. 1925 Sept. 1926 J. L. Layne of ignorance. Long before his experience of the warm
Sept. 1926 Sept. 1927 Wilbert A. O'Dell heart, he knew the meaning of a trained mind. The
Sept. 1927 Sept. 1928 C. H. Rayl first eleven years of his life were spent in a school his
Sept. 1928 Sept. 1929 B. Elmo Kelly mother established in their home for her many children.
Sept. 1929 Sept. 1930 E. B. Spears Not only did Susanna Wesley teach her children the
Sept. 1930 Sept. 1931 Okey Summers educational subjects, she also set apart an hour each
Sept. 1931 Sept. 1934 Fred Oxendale week when she would meet with each child alone for
Sept. 1934 Sept. 1936 Isaac N. Fannin prayer and religious instruction. Thus, John Wesley
Sept. 1936 Sept. 1937 Owen E. Mercer grew up relating religion and education. For him,
Sept. 1937 Sept. 1939 H. L. Phillips there was never any conflict between the two.
Sept. 1939 Sept. 1940 James D. Bell Wesley promoted and planned studies for his
preachers, literature for the masses of people and the
development of the Sunday School.
FORREST BURDETTE MEMORIAL In 1983, in United Methodist Churches, there were
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 138,730 Sunday Schools with 4,068,179 enrolled. This
constitutes both teaching and evangelistic
Sept. 1940 Sept. 1945 Holly O. Shamblin opportunities. Many Methodists were carried to
Sept. 1945 Sept. 1948 Ralph T. McCord Sunday School as (Cradle Roll) babies. Children grew up
Sept. 1948 June 1952 Ottie S. Donahoe with the feeling of belonging. Before learning to read,
June 1952 June 1957 Ira M. Mentz the basic principles of the Christian faith were instilled
June 1957 June 1961 Thomas W. Schuler, Jr. and children considered themselves to be Christian,
June 1961 June 1965 Allen H. Parrish never questioning any other way.
June 1965 June 1971 Joseph P. Byrd The educational process goes on throughout one's
June 1971 June 1974 Charles Hinkle life in the Methodist Church. The church school is
June 1974 June 1976 Samuel Starling concerned about every age, not only children.
June 1976 June 1979 William D. Slates
June 1979 June 1986 Bill Deel
June 1986 June 1989 Robert P. Johnson
June 1989 June Thomas J. Bickerton
40
Methodism has a very effective program for Youth, were recognized for the week. The children would give a
(M.Y.F.) Methodist Youth Fellowship, formerly known as penny for each year in the offering plate on the alter
Epworth League. and the "Ladies" usually dropped in a dollar, safe-
An important emphasis today is on "Singles", guarding the telling of their age. The members
especially in metropolitan areas, where there are very would share reports of sickness or need within the
large numbers of single young adults. This group is an church or community.
important part of any church program. Couples' There were "special" events throughout the year:
classes, for both younger and older couples, are given 1. The Children's Day program held one Sunday in
much attention. There are inter-generational June. (The children and teachers held the worship
groupings. And in United Methodist Church Schools service.)
loving attention is given to Senior Citizens' groups. 2. The annual Summer Picnic attended by all of the
The educational process covers the entire lifespan and classes in one of the nearby fields under the shade of
the United Methodist Church never gives up on the the beautiful trees. After filling the body with fried
impossible task—the perfection of human character. chicken, country ham, potato salad, deviled eggs,
Charles L. Allen: "Meet The Methodist" pickles, rolls, green beans, com on cob, custard, apple
and raisin pie, chocolate and coconut cake and
lemonade (sometimes watermelon); then participating in
From the 1911 records, the Sunday School was games and stories for all ages; the soul was satisfied
mentioned as being active in the Hurricane Methodist with prayer and songs (from "Farmer In The Dell",
Episcopal Church South Charge; however, not having a "My Bonnie" to "Amazing Grace").
church building, the Sunday School met with the 3. The Easter Egg Hunt for the Children.
Baptists as a "Union Sunday School". 4. The Christmas program and a treat from Santa
After the Methodist Church was completed in 1915, an was always a special time. Each class presented a
organized Sunday School was held weekly. little play or musical celebrating Christmas. The young
Many of the members remember, as children, being people and adults would present a "special play".
lifted up to grasp the bell rope and "riding" down to Santa would visit, call each child's name to come
the floor of the vestibule entrance of the little white forward with eyes sparkling. One Superintendent was
church, hearing the bell call the hour for worship. remembered remarking that he would like to be
Cards with the picture of Jesus on the front and a Bible Superintendent all of the days of his life, just for the
story on the back were given to the smaller children. A moments of Christmas.
"study quarterly" was presented to the children as In 1923-24, enrollment reached 100 in Sunday
they became older and were promoted. Memories School and by 1929-1930, the enrollment was 130,
have been shared of the "Young Peoples Class", the with average attendance of 75.
"Young Married Class" and the "Ladies" or the "Mens" Some of the earliest teachers were: Mr. Tom
Bible Class which signified the "Golden Years". Each Harbour, Forrest Burdette, Mrs. C. H. Kent, Mrs. Gene
week, of each year, was significant and an event Ford, Mrs. Harriet Roberson, Mrs. Edith Hall, Mrs.
"looked forward to". Elizabeth Roberman, Mrs. Edith Easter Roberts, Mr.
From 1915 until 1936, Sunday School classes were Ed Rappold, Mrs. C. M. Woodworth, Mrs. Ora Faulkner
held in the one room church. A typical service was as and Rev. Mitchell (a Baptist but loved as Methodist).
follows: The Superintendent opened the service by
ringing the church bell. The Song Leader announced
the opening hymn which was followed by prayer. The
subject of the lesson was announced and classes were
dismissed to their appointed class section within the
room.
Primary Class—2 to 6 year olds—left front pew
6 to 9 year olds—next pews behind
10 to 12 years old—back pew on left
12 to 14 years old—right front pews
15 to 20 years old—next pews behind
Young Marrieds——center pews
Bible Classes— rear of church
The arrangement was changed from time to time.
At about 10:45, the Superintendent would ring a 1920’s, Erma McCann Hill, Mrs. Ford with Son, Nannie
little bell to call all the classes together for closing McCann, Lynn “Buck:: McCann, Mrs. Stover. Front:
exercise at which time, the Secretary would announce Georgie Ellis, Tom Harbour.
the attendance, the offering and the weather. Birthdays
41
In 1936, the congregation of Liberty Methodist
Church united with Hurricane and the Liberty
church was moved into town to provide more class
room space for the Sunday School. One side of the
building was "curtained off". There was a kitchen
stove for church dinners, even though water had to
be carried from Mrs. Taylor's next door. The class
meetings and Epworth League meetings were also
held in the new addition.
Through the years, the Sunday School of Forrest
Burdette Church has continued to grow. The
message has been "Tell Them of Jesus". The
Educational Building was constructed in 1954 to
provide additional class rooms and activity space.
Today, in the '90's, attendance has reached 298
in 19 Sunday School Classes. The cry is heard for
"More Room". God will not leave His "believing"
people without "provision". Did he not provide Israel
with manna?
The following have served as Sunday School
Superintendents: (Note that records have not been
Circuit-Riding Preacher Visits Hurricane
available to substantiate all the time span.)
Hurricane Breeze, March 31,1966
1914-1915 C. H. Hunt
The Twentieth Century Circuit Rider, the Rev.
1915-1917 Forrest G. Burdette
Sidney Dillinger, will be riding horseback through
1918-1919 Ben Kiff
Hurricane on Friday, April 8, on his way to Baltimore,
1920 Susie Hall
Maryland, and the celebration of the 200th anniversary of
1921-1924 Carl A. Henderson
the founding of American Methodism. His schedule will
1925-1926 George C. Sowards
include a speaking engagement at a family covered
1927-1928 Ben Kiff
dish dinner at 6:30 p.m. at the Forrest Burdette Memorial
1929-1934 William Black
Methodist Church. At 7:45 a.m. he will deliver a brief
1935-1938 J. E. Billups
Holy Communion Meditation and participate in
1939-1943 Carl A. Henderson
administration of the Lord's Supper.
1944 K. O. Judy
"Saddlebags East" is the theme designated for this
1947-195? Buryl Neeley
project involving a group of 12 Methodist ministers
1963-1965 Homer Canterbury
selected from 128 volunteers who are riding horseback
1975-1977 Tene Barcroft
from different Methodist historical points in the United
1979 Lois Brewer
States to the celebration to be held April 21-24 in
1980 Joan Henson
Baltimore, Maryland. The theme will be "Forever
1981 Clarence Woodworth
Beginning," which will include some Methodist history
1982-1983 Tene Barcroft
but will also consider the Vital Issues Facing the
1984-1986 Cynthia Woodworth
Christian Church Today.
1987 Gale Thompson/Joe Wyatt
Mr. Sidney Dillinger, a Methodist minister from
1988-1989 Gale Thompson
McCracken, Kansas, began his travel from McKendree
1990-1992 James Swann
Chapel near Cape Girardeau, Missouri, leaving there
on March 18 with his arrival schedule in Baltimore on
April 20. The 1,000 mile trip is being made on his
four-year-old pure-blood Morgan gelding, "Chester." He
will be the guest of Rev. and Mrs. Byrd and his horse
will be cared for by Jack Saunders.
42
The History of Women of Forrest Burdette missionary service. Throughout the world, wherever
there is a United Methodist Church, you may be sure
Our heritage goes back to the Women o the f the women are there too. Caring for the entire
Tomb. To those grieving, yet believing women, to population, especially the women and children,
those frightened, yet hope-filled women, who found missionaries are building schools, teaching, nursing,
the risen Lord and became the first witnesses of doctoring, instructing the women of the tribes and
the resurrection. villages in new and better methods in caring for their
Our heritage includes women who founded and families, improvements for their diets, sanitation,
led Christian communities in the first centuries of conservation of water and producing food from their
the church, who nurtured the faith and the faithful in own gardens.
their homes, who left country and culture and The early women had "Bible Readers". Women
language to bring the Gospel to far-away places. went into the homes and read to the family and taught
Our heritage includes women of faith who lived them to read the Bible.
and still live in the strength of the resurrection. Women's Home Missionary Society of the Methodist
Our overseas missions were one of the Episcopal Church was organized in 1880. (In 1878,
strongest factors leading to the formation of the the Women's Foreign Missionary Society was
Woman's Foreign Missionary Society. The country organized by the Methodist Episcopal Church, South
which stands out in the early history of this and in 1890, the Women's Home Missionary Society.)
movement is India. India, in southeast Asia, has The Methodist Protestant Church organized the
been linked intimately with the United States United Women's Foreign Missionary Society in 1879 and in
Methodist Church for about a century and a half. 1893, they, too, organized a Women's Home
The first missionaries in the Methodist Episcopal Missionary Society.
Church who arrived in India in 1857, were Dr. In 1910, the two Societies of the Southern Church
William Butler and his wife, Clementina Rowe became known as Women's Missionary Council. ln
Butler. Mrs. Butler played an outstanding role in 1939, upon unification of the three branches of the
taking up the cause of the deprived women of Methodist Church, the women's mission group became
India. Clementina Butler was one of the light the Woman's Society of Christian Service Wesleyan
courageous women who founded the Women's Service Guild.
Foreign Missionary Society in 1869]
sionary
Two other pioneer women followed: Miss Isabella In 1968, the name was changed to the Women's
Thoburn and Dr. Clara Swain. The Power of God led Society of Christian Service Wesleyan Service Guild
three women and a great many others in United Methodist Church. And, in 1972, with the
missionar unification
43
unification of the United Methodist Church and
Evangelical United Brethren Church, the name was
changed to United Methodist Women.
The earliest date which would indicate organized
women's work in our area, is a program bulletin of the
Twenty-seventh Annual Session of the Women's
Missionary Society of the Methodist Church, South
held at the Nighbert Memorial Church, Logan, West
Virginia in 1938.
Before that time, the women's group was known as
"The Ladies Aid Society". The Hurricane Church also,
had a little club called the "Stitch and Chatter" club.
The members were: from the two churches, Baptist and
Methodist. Among the members remembered were:
Lena Stover, Jean Wilkerson, Lula Withrow, Anna
Woodworth, Edith Easter Roberts, Wilmoth Rumbaugh,
Annie Erwin, Elizabeth Roberman, Armazetta Hodge, Departing for Jackson's Mill, 1985, Brenda McBrayer,
Laura Riddle, Artie Sovine, Grace Burdette, Mary Kirtley, Chris Wagoner, Helen King, Malinda Shanklin (1992
President). Second row: Hilda O’Dell, Karen Lilly, Jennie
Marie Easter, Flora Fannin and Nannie Conner. These
Counts, Diana Skeens, Helen Crawford, Charlene Carter,
ladies would meet to make quilts, tack rug strips to be JoAnne Sovine, Vicki Jarvis. Third row: Carol Rowsey,
loomed into rugs to be sold to help meet the churches' Marion Howell Cottrell. In van: Mary Hill, Billie Saunders.
expenses. They, also, repaired donated clothing to be
given to those families in the community who might be in
need.
The quarterly conference reports indicate that the The women have followed the examples of those
Hurricane Church had a very active Ladies Missionary early women in that they used their time and talents to
Society as early as 1913-1914, reporting their great further the cause of Christ. Following the example of
efforts in raising money for the church to be built. Priscilla, of the first century church, they have used
After it's completion in 1915, they worked tirelessly to their gifts for writing and witnessing and like Phoebe,
help "pay off the debt", to develop their Society to be an whose ministry of service was an inspiration for all
outreach branch of the Church in the Community, the deaconesses, have used the gift of teaching, singing
Conference, and to contribute to the Foreign Mission and nurturing through the ages to further God's
Program. kingdom, making a great experience in walking with
The women of Forrest Burdette United Methodist Christ.
Women have, from their beginning, played a great role in As early as 1910 the Ladies Aid Society has been
the life of the church, teaching the children's and mentioned as "doing fine work". No record as been
adult Sunday School classes, planning projects to raise found about the leaders of these women but the
money for the needs of the church, (purchasing Pastor's Reports acknowledged the "outstanding
literature, study books, kitchen equipment, sound efforts" in raising money for the church building
equipment for the sanctuary, hymnals, carpet, paving completed in 1915.
for the alley, alter furnishings, parsonage furnishings, In 1940-41, minutes verify the organization of the
and much more), or sending food and clothing to the Women's Society of Christian Service under the
coal fields of West Virginia during the coal field war of direction of Rev. Holly O. Shamblin with Mrs.
the 1920's, contributing to Amherst Settlement in the William Black serving as president.
1930's, as well as, to Scott's Run Settlement in the From 1941 to 1945, Mrs. C. M. Woodworth,
1970's and 80's, the Beckley Child Care Center and president, led the women in an "unusual amount of
around the world, supporting students and missionaries. work for the Red Cross war effort", collecting relief
The women have attended Schools of Missions, items for displaced persons and sending boxes of
Spiritual Life Retreats and workshops to better prepare supplies to Amherstdale.
themselves to bring the message of our Lord to the
congregation of the church and to those who are met in
the daily walk of this Life.
44
From that time, the following women have served as 8. Christmas gifts for Scotts Run.
president: (Again, as record allows.) 9. Collected bedding and clothes for the
Welfare Department.
1945-46 Mrs. Carl Smith 10. 8 patients at Barboursville State Hospital
1946-48 Mrs. Thelma Sovine Wise were remember on special days.
1948-49 Mrs. Edith Easter Roberts 11. $1,370.00 spent on local church projects.
1949-51 Mrs. Thomas Hall 12. 100% in the 9 points of Giving for Dist.
1962-63 Mrs. Carol Rowsey
1965-66 Mrs. Bertha Krenzin
1969-70 Mrs. Karen Lilly
1971-72 Mrs. Janet Fisher
1973-74 Mrs. Helen King
1976-77 Mrs. Gertrude Graham
1977-78 Mrs. Ann Durham
1980-81 Mrs. Ginger Davis
1981-82 Mrs. Opal Ransom
1983-84 Mrs. Vicki Jarvis
1984-85 Mrs. Pat Burlingame
1985-86 Mrs. Diana Harkins
1986-89 Mrs. Helen Crawford
1990-91 Mrs. Linda Gibson
1992 Mrs. Malinda Shank lin
NOTE: A letter dated June 2, 1957, from Mrs. C.
Christmas Meeting, Circle #3, 1988, at the home of
M. Woodworth to Mrs. Thelma Sovine stated that:
Mrs. Edith Mangus. Front: Helen King, Alma
"The circles, to empty their treasuries, bought four new Johnson. Linda Gibson, Charlene Carter, Joey Crace.
tables for the social hall and a dozen each, knives,
Back row: Edith Mangus, Frances Capp, Delores
forks and tables poons. (Queen Bess pattern) We save
Price, Myrtle McCane, Marion Howell Cottrell, Hilda
General Mills coupons. Over a thousand dollars O’Dell, Carol Rowsey, Alice Gibson, Frances Gibson,
passed through my accounts for missions and local
Helen Crawford, President, United Methodist Women.
activities the past year. Please do not think I am
bragging but humbly think it is grand for our 75
1991:1. Increased membership to 84 members.
members".
2. 2 women attended School of Missions.
3. 28 women attended Spiritual Life Retreat.
In order that future members will know of the
4. Increased reading program & purchased new
work of the United Methodist Women in the recent
books.
past, examples of two years follow:
5. Supported Lucy Gray, student from Liberia,
sending her $50.00 per month for expenses.
1976: 1. Pledged $600.00 to Conference Missions,
6. Sent $1,200.00 through Conference for relief in
paid $767.46.
2. $100.00 Emergency Fund was established and Liberia in name of Lucy Gray.
made available to Dept. of Welfare. 7. Clothes and additional $300.00 to Lucy Gray for
3. 15 shawls made and delivered to Morris college supplies.
Memorial Nursing Home. 8. Supported W Va Conference of United
4. 100 toboggans made for needy children. Methodist Women through pledges, special
5. Filled 100 Christmas stockings for needy mission recognitions, gifts in memory and World
children. Thank Offering.
6. Christmas gifts for 22 needy children. 9. Supported Church Women United.
7. $175.00 for layette items for Scotts Run 10. Filled food baskets for needy at Thanksgiving.
Settlement House. 11. Purchased books throughout the year for
needy children at Christmas.
45
12. Filled Christinas bags with persona] items for
Dept. of Human Services elderly shut-ins.
13. Christmas party for foster care persons.
14. Supported minister in training with financial
assistance.
Through the years, the women have established
annual projects (Easter Eggs, Craft Fairs, and the
famous Turkey Dinner) as well as special events in
support of the local church, community and world
mission.
1988 Turkey Dinner. Frances Gibson, Karen Lilly,
JoAnne Sovine
1989 Easter Eggs: Opal Ransom (above), Alma
Johnson & Linda Gibson (below.
1986 Christmas Bazaar, Joan Mullins
The United Methodist Women have as their purpose:
"That they shall be m community of women whose
purpose is to know God and to experience freedom
as whole persons through Jesus Christ; to develop a
creative, supportive fellowship; and to expand
concepts of mission through participation in the
global ministries of the church."
46
The United Methodist Women of Forrest Burdette
United Methodist Church will, in a few short yean, be
celebrating their first century. There are women in our Elizabeth Roberman: As you left your room this
midst, with immeasurable reservoirs of potential that morning, did you think to pray..........
have barely been touched. Our responsibility is to
support and encourage their rightful places in life. Hazel Racer "Give thanks for all things unto God."
Ephesians 5:20
Susie Goldschmidt: The fear of the Lord is the
beginning of knowledge.....".Proverbs 1:7
Mae Smith: Train up a child in the way he should go:
and when he is old, he will not depart from it." Proverbs
22:6
Annie Cremeans: "Let us hold fast the profession of
our faith without wavering....." Hebrews 10:22
Alice Hall. Opal Leake. Wilma Bush: The Lord is My
Shepherd; I shall not want .."Psalm 23
1958 Mission Study Program. Front: Opal Ransom, Babe Beulah Kerns: "Let your light so shine before men, that
Bennett, Back: Clarice Bayliss, Joann Sovine, Billie they may see your good works, and glorify your Father
Saunders, JoAnn Adkins.
which is in heaven." Matthew 5:16
The future education of our children and youth lies in Laveda Coyner: "Blessed are the pure in heart, for
our hands. As teachers, parents, educators, they shall see God." Matthew 5:8
counselors, principals, concerned individuals, we must
be committed to the philosophy that education of the
mind , heart and spirit enables all persons to become
all they are capable of becoming.
We, United Methodist Women, pray God will give the
gift of imagination and the courage to truly live, to help
us see the immeasurable possibilities in one another
and realize the potentials within ourselves. As we
commit ourselves to His service, may we also
commit our lives anew to each other.
On May 17, 1977, the ANNA WOODWORTH
CIRCLE prepared the program for the annual Mother-
Daughter Banquet. The following is a Potpourri of
Verse which was called the "spiritual food",
sustaining the members of this circle down through the
years: 1967, Circle #1, Row #1: Suzie Goldschmidt, Nancy
Anna Woodworth: Break Thou the bread of life, Allen, Anna Woodworth, Sally Burns, Dortha Black, Mrs.
Dear Lord, to Me, C. O. Smith. Row 2: Ruth Byrd, Laveda Coyner,
As Thou didst break the loaves Augusta Burns, Douglas Coyner, Alice Hall, Opal Leake,
Beside the sea; Mrs. Bush. Row 3: Hazel Racer, Rev. Joseph Byrd, Mae
Beyond the sacred page Smith, child, Debbie Browning.
I seek Thee, Lord;
My spirit pants for Thee,
O Living Word.
47
Allie Coyner: I think when I read the sweet story
of old. The History of Methodist Men
When Jesus was here among men,
How He called little children as The United Methodist Men have been an active part of
lambs to His fold, the church for many years, however, records are not
I should like to have been with available to give a date of it's beginning. It is known that
them then. the United Methodist Men sponsored the Boy Scouts
(Miss Allie was the Cradle Roll Lady.) in 1955. Dennis Gibson and Kinsman E. Boso were two
of the early Presidents.
Maude Deskins: "In all thy ways acknowledge him, and
He shall direct thy paths." Proverbs 3:6
Sallie Bums: Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and
lean not unto thine own understanding." Proverbs 3:5
Nannie Sowards: These things I command you, that
ye love one another." John 15:17
Dorothy Black: "Oh, what peace, we oft en forfeit.
Oh, what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry,
Everything to God in Prayer."
Nancy Allien: "For God so loved the world, that 1980 Charter Meeting. Front: Jim Matthews, Leo
He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever Pauley, Jim Fisher, Steve Cousins, Herb Gibson, Bill
believeth in Him should not perish, but have Deel. Back: Coy Mullins, Clarence Woodworth, Herb
everlasting Life." John 3:16 Alexander, Corky Martin, Orin McCallister.
Lorraine Melton: For whosoever will save his life, shall The United Methodist Men have been attending
lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the Men's Fellowship Retreat at Jackson's Mill
the Gospels, shall save it." Mark 8:35 since the early 1970’s. In 1991, twenty-eight men
attended. A special award, the Palmer Award, is
Nannie Colwell: "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, given each year for the most men from one church
from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the attending. Forrest Burdette Church received this
Lord, which made heaven and earth...." Psalm 121:1-2 award in 1991.
During Lent, the United Methodist Men
Bertha Krenzin: An old Chinese Proverb: presented a drama. “The Living Last Supper",
If there is righteousness in the heart. There created and developed from a program using
will be beauty in the character. Leonardo da Vinci's painting. The Last Supper.
If there is beauty in the character, Many persons from the church and community
There will be harmony i n the home, have enjoyed the performances in 1990 and 1991.
If there is harmony in the home, There The men's group has also been responsible for
will be order in the nation many major building repairs including roofing the
There will be peace in the world. educational building and construction of a two-car
garage for the church van and parsonage storage.
AND REMEMBER: TAKE TIME TO SMELL THE They have been committed to a community project,
ROSES--as you go through life cleaning two miles of highway along Route 60 two
For it is written: THAT MAN (NOR or three times a year.
WOMAN) SHALL NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE
48
The annual Christmas Tree Sale is also another Mary Lou Woodworth, Gale and Geka Stover,
on-going project of the group. Raymond Peak, Jack Saunders, Hilda O'Dell.
Records show that the following have served as In the 1930's, the pastor would rotate to all the
president in recent years: churches on the charge and the youth would
1979-80 Ed Davis sometimes lead the Sunday Evening Services.
1980-81 Jim Swann One Easter Sunday in the absence of the pastor, the
1985-88 Tim Landin youth presented the program using material taken from
1988-90 Joe McMillion Mrs. Woodworth's "Methodist Women". The
1990-91 Coy Mullins congregation declared it to be the "finest service".
1991-92 Bill Donahoe Another time, at Christmas, a program was planned
by the teachers for the young children to present and
the youth made costumes and portrayed scenes as
The History of Youth Ministry the reader read the Christmas Story from Luke. (Mary
of Forrest Burdette Lou Woodworth played the piano).
The story of Jesus can best be told by the children
It was after the Hurricane Methodist Episcopal and young people. Adults seem to open their hearts to
Church South had their own church building that the message and blessings received especially at Easter
the youth groups were organized. The Epworth and Christmas.
League evidently came into being about the year
1918 after the dedication of the new name of
Forrest Burdette Methodist Episcopal Church
South. Records are not available, except from the
memories of two or three of the persons who were
members of the League in the 1920's
A revival was held in 1920, lasting four weeks.
The youth continued the services for two more
weeks after the Evangelist moved on to the next
appointment.
The record lists presidents: 1927-28, C. A.
Henderson, 1928-29, Irene Hamilton, 1929-30, H.
C. Graham. Among other leaders were: Mrs. W. H.
Miller, Elizabeth Roberman, Agnes Burns
Henderson,
Christmas in the SO's. Included are: Mark Adkins, Charlie
and & Debbie Canterbury, Paul Boyles, Scott Beaver, Nancy
Skidmore, Jan Rowsey, David Boyles, Steve Garrett, Sue
Ann Stephenson, Santa, and Billie Saunders.
Bible School in the 40's included: Front: Donald
Leadman, Ned Easter, Lowell Gene Wise, Jack Gibson,
?, Denzil Newmeyer, ?. Second: ?, ?, ?, ?, Jack Clark, Christmas in the 60's. Included are: Devin Beaver, Becky
Judy Gibson, Kay Turner, Mabel Smith. Third: Patty Ellis, Hart, Steve Fisher, ? Keener, Timmy Lewis, Pam
?, Sue Smith, Mary Lou Ellis, Geraldine Shamblin, Carol Taylor, Scott Dehainaut, Santa,Jackie Kessler Chaney.
Sue Chapman, ?, Lois Sovine, Mary Lou Turner. Last:
Carol Sovine, Doris Smith, Wanda Allen, Rev. Holly
Shamblin, K. O. Judy.
49
Throughout the years, the young people and leaders have
been faithful to the commitment of serving the Lord and
enjoying the fellowship such as picnics, camping week
ends, youth retreats (held in early years at Morris-Harvey
College, a Methodist supported school in Barboursville
and later at Spring Heights), Youth Congress at W. Va.
Wesleyan, and beach trips.
1984 Youth Program participants included: Front: Kristi
Easter, Cathy Swann, Chris Wagoner, Jennifer Litton,
Christmas, 1970. Left to right: ?, Tom Fisher, Billy
Joe Grass, ?, Jerri Jo Bailey, Cheri Gibson, Donnie
Hart, Brian Bailey, Mark Dunlap
Holly Ferres, Alysia Deskins. Back: Stephanie Fisher,
Chris Landers, John Martin, Tom & Nancy Connelly, Scott
White, Jason Swann.
1985 Fall Ralley. The smallest 'banner carrier", Angie
Harkins.
The work continues today, in 1992, as the Middlers
(20 7th and 8th graders) meet and participate in
studying life situations and using the teachings of the
Bible for every day application and the Senior High
Youth (25) learn and share in a structured study group.
Easter program, 1971
50
was sponsored by various organizations. The Lions
Club, the Lodges, and the Methodist Men. Parents and
citizens supported the total program of scouting.
From 1945-1948, when Rev. Ralph McCord was
pastor, the youth of the church were encouraged to
become a part of the scouting program.
In 1955, Troop 236 was organized and sponsored by
the Men's Fellowship of Forrest Burdette Memorial
United Methodist Church. Since that time, until
January, 1991, some of the Scoutmasters have been:
George Spangler, Richard Rehinhart, Harold McKinny,
Bill Keener, Richard Holcomb, Charles Graham.
In 1970, Charles Graham organized the Cub Scouts
and for 20 years plus, "Scouting" was a "family" word. (At
Always Helpers! Jennifer Litton, Michelle Maynard, one time, there were 94 boys in the total church
Andrea Litton and Young Harold Crawford. program.) "Charlie", wife, Gertrude, and Bill Keener
have been "mentors" to many, many young boys. The
church has been a sponsoring organization and the
pastors and congregation and the many youngsters and
parents who participated in the program helped to
make Troop 236 a leader within the Buckskin Council.
1991 Youth Beach Trip
Plans to attend the Youth Celebration at W. Va. Wesleyan 1990 Scouts in Forrest Burdette Troop 236 include Jon
and several recreational trips are underway. Fisher.
United Methodists have always considered the children
and youth their greatest concern and each adult member
of Forrest Burdette Church should remember to live the
example of our Lord as the eyes of the children and youth Today, Pack 236 is very active under the
are upon them. leadership of Gail Lovejoy, Scoutmaster and Cindy
Never underestimate the youth. They are a product of High, Assistant.
the teaching, guiding, loving and nurturing of the HOME
and the CHURCH. Note: Jo Ann (Ellis) Adkins and Billie Saunders
established the first Girl Scout Brownie Troop about
1955.
The Boy Scout Ministry
of Forrest Burdette
In the year 1913, scouting came to Hurricane when
Troop No. 36 was organized with Louis Wilson as the first
Scoutmaster. The troop, down through the years, was
sponsored
51
The Music Ministry of Forrest Burdette Charles Wesley wrote six thousand, seven thousand
hymns, maybe more. He inspired Methodists to sing.
Music enriches man's religious life. This was true On Easter Morning, we sing with joyous enthusiasm
when the Jewish people worshiped Jehovah in the the hymn Charles Wesley gave us——"Christ the Lord is
tabernacle and temples. It was true during the early Risen Today!"
centuries of the Christian Church. The music of the Many believe that had not Methodism been a
church was the wind that spread the flame of the singing church, it would never have grown and
Protestant Reformation. The rise of pietism and expanded as it did. Singing is a vital part of our
evangelism in the 17th and 18th centuries, with the church, and today, we remember John Wesley's
emphasis on individual conversion and holy living, Directions for Singing (Book of Hymns, p. VII):
was promoted through hymns by writers such as Isaac
Watts and Charles Wesley. I. Learn these tunes before you learn any others;
Excerpt from: Preface of "The Endless afterwards, learn as many as you please.
Song", Kenneth W. Osbeck II. Sing them exactly as they are printed here,
without altering or mending them at all; and if you
have learned to sing them otherwise, unlearn it as soon
UNITED METHODISTS—A SINGING CHURCH as you can.
III. Sing All. See that you join with the congregation
We Methodists speak often of John Wesley, but we as frequently as you can. Let not a slight degree of
sometimes forget Charles Wesley. After John weakness or weariness hinder you. If it is a cross to
Wesley's heart had been "strangely warmed", he first you, take it up, and you will find it a blessing.
went to Charles, and it was to him he first said "I IV. Sing lustily and of good courage. Beware of
believe". Later, when they faced the question of singing as if you were half dead, or half asleep; but lift up
whether or not the Methodist Societies should sever your voice with strength. Be no more afraid of your voice
the connection with the Church of England, it was now, nor more ashamed of its being heard, than when
Charles who said, "Church or no church, we must you sung the songs of Satan.
attend to the work of saving souls", though he was V. Sing modestly. Do not bawl, so as to be heard
opposed to leaving the Church of England. It was above or distinct from the rest of the congregation that
Charles who, so faithfully, recorded the Christian you may not destroy the harmony; but strive to unite
experiences of those early Methodists as he wrote the your voices together, so as to make one clear
hymns they sang. melodious sound.
Through the years, Charles Wesley's hymns have VI. Sing in Time. Whatever times is sung, be sure to
been the binding cord of all Methodism. His hymns keep with it. Do not run, before, nor stay behind it; but
gave the Methodist movement life and warmth and attend close to the leading voices, and move
heart. It was said of many a Methodist preacher: "He therewith, as exactly as you can; take care not to sing
gathered a congregation about him by singing, and, too slow. This drawling may naturally steal on all who are
after prayer, began to preach." lazy; and it is high time to drive it out from us, and sing all
We can never measure the influence of hymns on our tunes just as quick as we did at first.
Methodism. It has been said over and over that where VII. Above all sing spiritually. Have an eye to God in
one reads the sermon of John, a thousand sing the every word you sing. Aim at pleasing Him more than
hymns of Charles. The first hymns in The Book of yourself, or any other creature. In order to do this,
Hymns of our Church is Charles' "O For a Thousand attend strictly to the sense of what you sing with the
Tongues to Sing"———indeed, that hymn is the sound, but offered to God continually; so shall your
keynote of Methodism. singing be such as the Lord will approve here, and
O, for a thousand tongues to sing, reward you when He cometh in the clouds of
my great redeemer's praise, heaven.
My gracious Master and My God, Charles L, Allen—Meet the Methodist
assist me to proclaim.....
There we have it——praise and proclaim. Those are
the foundation stones of evangelistic faith. Charles Wesley
had wonderful poetic gifts which he used to do the work of
an evangelist.
52
The music of the church should involve everyone— Mrs. Mildred Graham joyously played the first
not just a few elitist musicians. Worship and praise are organ purchased in the Spring of 1949. She faithfully
predominant throughout the Scriptures. The voice lifted gave the congregation the great music of her God
in praise is one of the most sublime ways to honor the given talent for forty years.
Almighty God. Mrs. Faye Miller and Mrs. Doris Clark organized the
We, at Forrest Burdette, have, down through the first full time choir in the early 1940’s. Mrs. Clark, having
years, been blessed with an ample supply of musical great "energies and fortitude," (a testimony from Mrs.
talent. We have enjoyed congregational singing, using JoAnne Sovine) also organized a very fine youth choir
the little green Cokesbury hymnal and a special choir at with 16 young people. Today, she remembers them as
revival times only. being "Just Great!"
To be remembered is another "Just Great" youth
Note: Members have recalled numerous times when choir, “The New Minds", directed by Laura Jo Smith in
the congregational singing during revivals would draw the 1960's and 70’s. Guitar's were played by Jeff Hunt,
crowds of listeners along the street and across the Billy Ashworth, and Rick Smith; piano by Pam Lester; and
overhead railroad bridge. drums by Jan Rowsey. There were, sometimes, as
many as 60 young people attending practice and they
Lola Burdette, sister of Forrest Burdette, was a very often took their "message" on the road to many
talented young lady of our early church history. She was churches. The music and presentation was new but the
a student of piano at Cincinnati Conservatory of Music story of God's Love was always the same and Forrest
in the early 1920’s, at the time the famed Evangelist, Burdette Memorial Methodist Church was proud to
Billy Sunday, was holding meetings in that same town. send these witnesses out into the world! Among them
One evening the pianist was unable to take her place were: Susan Ward, Beverly Hunt, Cathy Elswick, Debbie
in the service, Homer Rodahaver, the director of music Sovine, Pam Hall, Jolene Ward, Kirn Kessler, Teresa
for Rev. Sunday, sent a call to the Conservatory Carter, Kathy Lewis, Debbie Atkins , Anita King, Cathy
requesting a pianist for the evening. The school chose Adkins, Cindy Pauley, Nancy Lowe, Elice Breedlove,
Lola and as a result, Mr. Rodahaver became a visitor Carol King, Debbie Carter, Bridget Edwards, Jan
of the Burdette family in Hurricane. One of the Rowsey, Sara Graham, Susan Graham, Bobby Slack,
greatest events of the church was the privilege of Pam Lester, Vicky Grass, Karen Lester, Becky Adkins,
hearing Mr. Homer Rodahaver sing during a church Anita Brannon, Donna Thompson, Maxie Foley, Lynn
service on two different occasions. Grace, Darlene Searls, Mary Newsome, Pam Roberts,
Mr. William Black was song leader for many years. Mary Ruth Gregory, John Hill, Tom Slack, David
Many members played the piano for the services: Keener, Marshall Adkins, Richard Smith, Victor Smith,
Reba Whitten, Iris Billups, Opal Leake, Marion Sovine, Billy Ashworth, Joe Fisher, John Fisher, Sammy
Holdren, Ray Vanater, Howard Rowsey, David Atkins,
Darrell Shamblin, Leonore Coulter, Mary Lou Woodworth,
J. B. Burdette, Jeff Hunt, Brett Bailey, Phil Gregory,
Hilda O'Dell, Mae Rose Sowards, Brenda Duke
Frank Johnson.
McBrayer, Alma Thompson, and Barbara Simmons
Over the years, the children's choirs have always
among them.
been an inspiration to keep the scripture before us,
"And a little child shall lead them". So many faithful
people have assisted with the practices and
presentations, but Hilda O'Dell and Eileen Holdren
have been outstanding in leading those "little voices" to
sing.
There were volunteer directors for the adult choirs
from 1953 to 1960. Among them were: Jo Ann
Adkins, John Rumbaugh, Mr. Parkhurst, Frank Jones,
James Andrews.
Mrs. Mildred Graham
53
Mrs. Barbara Cole became the full-time organist
upon the retirement of Mrs. Graham. She continues
the rich heritage of special music for the worship
services and other special occasions.
Today, the music ministry includes: Chancel Choir,
Gerry Simmons, Director; Youth Choir, Karen
Campbell, Director; Angelica Choir, Barbara Simmons,
Director; Cherub Choir, Dcbbie McCoy & Tracey
Patterson, Directors; The Goodtimes Choir, Eileen
Holdren, Director and comprehensive Bell Choirs for
many occasions.
The congregation of Forrest Burdette has been, in
Children in the Christmas Cantata. 1971. First Row: the past, and, at the present, led in true Methodism —
?, Richie Brewer, Scott Cole, Shannon Ferres "Don't Neglect The Singing!"
Warden, Jamie Michaels Jones, Kim Cole. Second
Row: Cheryl Dunlap Foster, ?, ?, ?, ?, ?, Michael
Kennedy. Third Row: David Lovely, Jamie Hill, ?,
Cheryl Gibson Rollyson, Mike Lester, Janette
Neumeyer, Teresa Melton, Belinda Cole, Andrea
Hinkle. Forth Row: Andy Lovely, Fred Fisher, Jerri
Bailey, Jane Garrett Held, ?, ?, Joyce King. Agnes
Henderson, Narrator.
1980 Youth Choir. Front: Elizabeth Mitter. Alicia
Simmons. David McCane. Shannon Ferres Warden.
Middle. Nicki Raynes. Kim Cole. Corky Mitter. Karen
First Row: Peggy McClanahan, Jackie Craigo, Phyllis McCane, Nancy Simmons. Back: Wayne Magaw, Brad
Lovely Collins, Betty Newsome, Pam Lester, Laura Jo Deel, Doug Henson. Terry Floyd.
Smith, Janet King, and Nancy Lowe Adkins. Second
Row: Billie Saunders, Debbie Adkins Russell, Joann
Adkins, Virginia Edwards, Mary Newsome G regory,
Mary Adkins, Nannie Colwell, Carol King Proffitt,
Jane Duke. Third Row: Clyde Sampson, Charles
Duke, Norval Mallory, David Adkins, Kay Adams,
John Rumbaugh, Hilda O’Dell, Ransford Ransom,
Eileen Holdren, Mildred Graham, Accompanist.
Seventeen years ago, the music ministry required so
many hours for the music selection and preparation
time that a director, Gerry Simmons, was hired. Gerry,
his wife, Barbara, and their entire family have been
involved in the total music program of Forrest Burdette. Niki Raynes Horner, Alicia Siimmons. Joy Manson Browne,
Truly, they have taken Psalm 100 as their dedication Shannon Ferres Warden, Todd Masmon, Karen McCane
theme, "Make a Joyful noise unto the Lord," and to Clatworthy, Nancy Simmons Freese, ?.
"enter unto His Presence with singing."
54
Throughout these pages, there has been a
witness of the many loving caring persons who
have kept the Faith, shared the Word and brought
the ministry of Forrest Burdette Memorial United
Methodist Church into the 1990’s. The following
persons have responded to a call to give witness to
the church TODAY!
A FAMILY THAT PRAYS TOGETHER
The Alexander Family (Cornelia, Herb, Leigh Anne
and Bill)
Although Cornelia is from Princeton (Mercer County)
and Herb is from Fayette County, Hurricane is the only
home our two children have ever known. And Forrest
Burdette United Methodist Church is the only church we,
all four, have belonged to together.
1990 Adult 75th Anniversary Choir. Front: Sue Floyd and Vada Ramsey were the reasons the
Bennett, Judy Clendenin, Barbara Martin, Gloria Alexander family started attending Forrest Burdette.
McCane, Vickj Jarvis, T ene Barcroft, Joan Heaton,
We had been their neighbors on Buff Creek (Lake
Cathy Ellison, Laura Jo Smith, Barbara Simmons.
Washington) for several years and they were always
Back: David Shanklin, Clarence Woodworth, Tom
very special to us. So, because of their friendship and
Connelly, Sherman Burlingame, Sam Cole, Betty
encouragement, we began attending church regularly.
Ferris, Hilda O’Dell, Helen King, Priscilla Deskins.
In 1978, when Bill Slates was our minister, we
joined the church. Active in the Stewards of
Fellowship Sunday School class. Herb was also an
usher and Cornelia sang in the Choir, played in the bell
choir, and was also a member of Ruth Byrd Circle.
Leigh Anne and Bill were also active in their
Sunday school classes (Joan Henson being their
favorite teacher), participating in the many different
programs, also singing in the various choirs and
playing in the bell choir too. When they were small,
Leigh Anne always watched over Bill like a "good
little mother.” Leigh Anne graduated in June, 1991,
from Hurricane High School and Bill is a senior.
In August 1983, when Bill Deel was our minister.
Cornelia became church secretary and treasurer. She
remained at this position until October, 1987, when she
moved to the Cultural Center in Charleston to become
1959-60 4th grade S. S. Class: First Row: Sarah editorial assistant for GOLDENSEAL magazine.
Boggess, Shelia Lipscomb, Penny Oliver. Second During the years, at Forrest Burdette, we have made
Row: LaDonna Rowsey, Diana Beaver, Joyce Kerns, many good and lasting friendships which we shall
Debbie Evans, Betty Welker. Third Row: Jane Duke, cherish always.
Cheryl Bullock, Angie Neumyer, Jill Ramsey, Jane
Saunders, ?. Fourth Row: Jimmy Lewis, Steve
Cyrus, ?, Vickie Valentine, ?. Fifth Row: Fred Fisher,
Donna Beaver, ?. Back Row: Eddie Sampson, Jan
Craigo.
55
A FAMILY GROWS
CARING CHURCH
The Blankensbips (Bob, Mary Ruth, Kelly, Rachel and
Becky Bailey Robbie)
I moved to Hurricane in 1990 and Anne Fulwjder In the Summer of 1966, Mary Ruth moved to
invited me to Forrest Burdette Church. I liked the Hurricane with her parents, Robert and Evelyn
friendliness and the excitement which I felt amidst the Gregory, when her father was transferred on his job.
congregation and became a member in January, 1991. She was baptized and joined Forrest Burdette in
Forrest Burdette Memorial United Methodist Church 1967. She married a childhood friend, Bob Blankenship,
is one of the most active, caring churches I have ever on November 1, 1981.
attended. I am impressed with the on-going ministries Now, there are three children, Kelly, Robbie and
and the insight of members to look to the future. Rachel, who also attend church and are becoming
active in the children's activities.
There are many memories from Sunday School and
youth groups and now they are brought to mind
FIRST SUNDAY SCHOOL watching the children in the same activities.
Some of the most inspiring people have been Hilda
Iris Leake Billups
O'Dell who teaches us all lessons constantly and shows
people how caring we must be and loving parents who
I was enrolled in the first Sunday school of the
have set such an example to follow, making the church
Hurricane Methodist Church. Mrs. Myrtle Robinson (wife such an active part in growing up.
of Dr. Robinson) was my first Sunday school teacher. The Blankenship family hopes to follow the traditions
Mr. Forrest Burdette was my first grade school of making the relationship with Forrest Burdette
teacher. strong and steadfast one with many more memories
I joined the church about 1921 when my father, for Kelly, Robbie, Rachel and their children to come.
Charles W. Leake, was one of the first trustees of the
church and his faith influenced my decision to become a
part of the congregation.
On December 18. 1929, I married Edward L CHANGE, CONVERSION, CALLING
Billups. We now spend most of our time in Florida but I
am still a member and still support the Forrest Jim and Glenna Burdette
Burdette Memorial United Methodist Church.
Ten years ago, in February, 1982, a man, recently
divorced, and four of his children walked in the front
door of your church to be greeted by Rev. Jan Oldham
and Rev. Bill Deel. After introductions that were warm
and caring, we took our seats among your
congregation.
Today, ten years later, I am near graduation from
Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky. I
have been accepted by the Board of Ordained
Ministry of the West Virginia Conference of the
United Methodist Church and look forward to
appointment as an ordained deacon in June, 1992.
You, Forrest Burdette Church, displayed the Love of
Christ to us in the very beginning. You helped us begin
our healing process and nourished us in faith, mercy
and grace. All of you became our friends in Jesus
Christ.
Ed and Iris Leake Billups You opened the door to me to minister in my broken-
brokenness that
56
ness that others may be forewarned of the pain of sin.
Yet, the result was the overwhelming forgiveness of
God to a contrite heart. Oceans of joy flooded my being
and strengthened me for the battles that lay ahead
although obsure. Many of you watched and listened in
grace as the battles were incurred. You ministered again
and again!
Then one day, on Interstate 64, God worked His
work within me. He turned my life around at a
phenominal pace!
Before I could realize what was h appening, your Mrs. Sallie Burns
prayers brought Glenna, Greg and I together with my
children. We were soon married and God blessed us TO THE CONGREGATION OF MY CHURCH:
with Jessica and Joshua. That made a total of eleven
children and since the old adage “That they're cheaper Mrs. Sallie Burns
by the dozen" came to mind. World Vision provided our
12th child. Dear Ones:
In the meantime, there was serving the Lord I am so sorry I am unable to attend our church's
through many various boards and offices in the church. 75th birthday. I am afflicted with something they call
Your involvement in the community expanded our "Advanced Age" which has slowed me down and has
outreach through Literacy Volunteers and The Gideons robbed me of the ability to do many things.
International and Auxiliary. I miss the people of my church, especially my
During this time, God was laying the call of friends who have gone home to be with Jesus, Mrs.
pastoral ministry upon hearts. We sold most of what we Woodworth, Mrs. Hall, Mrs. Bush, Mrs. Goldsmith and so
had and followed Him to seminary. many more. I remember the "happy times" of the Circle
At this writing, I am again humbled by the and Women's Society.
countless number of lives you have affected for Jesus My "Advanced Age" has given me more time to
Christ and your support while in seminary. remember places, people and things. More time to
We will always remember you, both those who live read the Word of God. Oh, how I love it! I can pray with
and those who have gone to their glory in the Lord. more time for my family, my church and for those I read
That's not looking back: That's knowing where we about in the paper, suffering from illness,
have been and how God the Father, Son and Holy earthquakes, hurricanes and wars.
Spirit has been faithful to us through you. Thank you for Our praying church has witnessed many miracles in
loving us in Christ Jesus! We love you! Shalom, our answered prayer. I remember the young man needing a
Friends! kidney transplant, a young lady named Sue and the
Ransom's.
Jim & Glenna Burdette I rejoice everyday in God's great love. Please pray for
Greg Turley, Jessica, and me and those of my children who are not walking in the
Joshua light of God's love and for my grandchildren.
Jim Jr. & Terah Burdette & Dana Renae Pray for our church, our Pastor Tom and our boys
Jeff & Patty Burdette and girls in the service of our Country.
Richard & Terrie Burdette If you should be afflicted with "Advanced Age", it's not
Steve & Kay Burdette so bad, don’t give up just because you can’t hear or see
Scott & Patty Carroll, Nathan & Andrew so well, and maybe need someone to help you to your
George & Susan McPhail feet. There are many things you can do to still serve our
Jeff & Mary Beth Neal & ? (Due November, 1992) Lord.
John & Marianne Burdette & ? (Due June, 1992) Have a Happy Day, a Happy Life, and most of all
Trust in the Lord. Love, Sallie E. Burns
Note: Ms. S a l l i e was age 98 years 6 months
when she prepared this message for her church
family. She returned HOME to her Heavenly
Father on January 14, 1992 just weeks short of her
100th birthday.
57
DIFFERENT BUT THE SAME beautiful buildings but they are still serving the
purposes for which they were dedicated.
Grace Boggess During the past forty years that we have lived in
Hurricane, our family has increased with a son and
Arnold and I lived in Ripley, W. Va. until 1951. I was another daughter, two granddaughters, two
a teacher at Ripley High School and a member of grandsons, and two sons-in-law; but I still recall
Epworth Methodist Church. Our first child was on the vividly our beginning in Hurricane. DIFFERENT
Cradle Roll there. BUT THE SAME!
We moved to 118 Taylor Street, Hurricane, June 2,
1951, a Saturday, to be closer to Arnold's employment. Note: Grace Boggess served as a member of
We didn't have Interstate highways then but he the 75th Anniversary Committee. She retired
eventually worked on many of them. from teaching and has been an active member
Our next-door neighbor, Mrs. Allie Coyner, took me of the United Methodist Women, their historian of
under her wing and went with me to the stores in town TODAY. Her keepsakes and treasures have added
and introduced me to many people. Mrs. Doris Clark much to this publication.
owned the Five to Dollar Store, Denver Hodges had just
-Z
opened his A Store, Raines Drug Store had a soda
fountain and booths for the high school crowd after
school. Several grocery stores, dress shops, shoe repair OUR HOME CHURCH
shops and furniture stores flourished downtown and, of
course, the C&O depot was located in the heart of town. Thelma Carter
Mrs. Coyner, also, went with me to the Forrest
Burdette Memorial Met hodist Church on Putnam Family members: Everette, Thelma, Pam and
Avenue. She was a charter member of the church. The Teresa.
church was a small building of gray blocks, and some Everette and I moved to Hurricane from Sandusky,
people said it looked like a doll house. Rev. Donahoe, Ohio, in 1956, where Everette did watch repair.
Bill's grandfather, was the pastor. Charles Duke was At this time, we had one daughter, Pam. We opened a
the teacher of the Wesley Pioneers Sunday School grocery store and watch repair shop on Teays Valley
Class. When the old sanctuary was razed, the Loyal Road. A short time later, we had another daughter,
Service, Progressive Bible, and Wesley Pioneer Teresa.
classes merged into one class, the Loyal Pioneers. When we came to Hurricane, we visited a few
The first time I took my young daughter to Sunday
different churches before we united with Forrest
School, Alice Gibson was the teacher of the nursery
Burdette. I was raised a Methodist and we had a few
class. Dennis Gibson and Rev. Donahoe were the first
friends at Forrest Burdette so, we felt more at home.
people from the church to visit us.
Everette, Pam, and I became members in 1963 and
The day I walked in the Church, I was shocked.
Teresa in 1968.
The sanctuary looked exactly like the one I had just
Rev. Joseph Byrd married Pam and Keith Smith in
left in Ripley. The stained glass windows, the red
the old sanctuary before it was razed. Teresa is
carpet, the choirloft, and the Alter were all in the same
married to Gary Janeway and they live in Tennessee,
places.
I transferred my membership from Epworth where she has transferred her membership.
Methodist to Forrest Burdette Memorial in 1952. Two While we have been at Forrest Burdette, Hilda
others transferred membership: Clarence and Lottie O'Dell has been an inspiration to my family. We feel
VanDyke. truly blessed by the congregation, lasting friendships
The following year, I began teaching at Hurricane and good memories while we have been in OUR
High School. Again, I entered a building just like the one HOME CHURCH, Forrest Burdette.
I left in the Spring. Hurricane High School was an exact
twin of the school building in Ripley. The only
difference was red brick on one and buff brick on the
other.
Both the church and school have been replaced with
beautiful
58
NEW IN MANY RESPECTS the drug store for "Doc" and Edna Raines for a few
years.
The Cole Family: Sam, Barbara, DeWayne, I was married to Howard Cook on June 15, 1962.
Belinda, Scott, and Kimberly He came to Forrest Burdette Memorial by letter from
Mullens, WV.
Because a fire destroyed our home in February, Mom died December 23, 1969, and Howard died
1971, we felt the need for a new environment. Sam October 18,1976.
accepted a position with the radio station being built in Until the Lord calls me Home, I hope to continue to
Hurricane and we moved from Elkview in May. The live here where my Church friends can find m e
children were enrolled in school: DeWayne was in anytime.
seventh grade; Belinda, second grade; Scott, first
grade (Hilda O'Dell's class); and K imberly had not yet
started to school. It was a traumatic time for our
family and we needed a church home.
Having met Reverend Byrd, only once, we were
disappointed to learn that he w ould be moving and that
another minister would be coming to Forrest Burdette.
The "new" minister, Charles Hinkle, his wife,
Virginia, and daughter, Andrea, soon became very dear
to our hearts. It was during Reverend Hinkle's
ministry that construction began on the present
sanctuary, and Sam worked actively with "Charlie" in
this effort. We became members of Forrest Burdette
during this time.
In 1972, I began playing the piano, along with
Wedding of Erma Patterson to Howard Cook. Miss
Mildred Graham on the organ, for church services and,
Alice Pall, Hobert Pall, Wilda Williams, Mr. Pizeno,
except for a couple of years, have continued to be
active in that role. Sam loves to sing. Singing with a Opal Shannon, Howard Cook, Erma Patterson Cook,
quartet has prevented him from full-time participation in Arthur R. Patterson, Sarah Patterson, U. J. Shannon,
the choir, but he does occasionally sing during a Isabel Knight, Rev. Tom Schuler.
worship service.
The children were graduated from Hurricane High
School and have all moved out of state in search of
careers. The memories they have of attending Sunday FULL CIRCLE
School and participating in youth activities at Forrest
Burdette will remain with them throughout their lives. Marion Sovine Howell Cottrell
I grew up in Forrest Burdette Church and joined on
my own in 1940, at the age of 12. My membership was
ROCKED IN A METHODIST CRADLE taken to Milton Methodist in 1961, and then to Wesley
Methodist when we moved to Vienna in 1966. I moved
back to Hurricane, bringing my membership to Forrest
Erma Patterson Cook
Burdette, in 1987, following the death of my husband,
Gene Howell.
In April of 1942, my parents, Donald and Sarah
Our son, Stan, was baptized at Forrest Burdette in
Patterson, and I moved to the Hurricane area, one mile
1958 and our daughter, Beth, in 1960, both by Rev.
down Hurricane Creek Road.
Thomas Schuler. Beth Howell Montgomery was
We had always been Methodists. We attended the
married at the church in 1990 to John Harvey by Rev.
church here, for about two years. At that time, we
Herman Hayes. My grandchildren, Shaun and Shannon
came by letter of transfer from Chelyan Methodist to
Montgomery, attend church with me faithfully and now,
Forrest Burdette Methodist Church.
my newest granddaughter, Charlotte Harvey, is coming
Dad died in September, 1954. In the Spring of 1955,
with Beth occasionally.
Mom and I moved to 2626 Virginia Avenue. I worked in
the
59
Stan, with his wife, Carrie, and son, Adam, now live SERVING GOD
nearby and are coming to Forrest Burdette.
On January 24, 1992, Forest Cottrell and I were The Cunninghams: Debby, John, Margaret and
married at the church by Rev. Tom. Even though Catherine
Forest is a member of First Baptist Church, he also
attends some special services with me. Debby Cunningham was raised in a Methodist
When I came to Christ as an adult, it was at the altar Church. When she and her family moved into the
of Forrest Burdette on April 7, 1957—the very same community, she came to Forrest Burdette and was
day my sister, Lois, did. Inspiring individuals include my greeted by warm and friendly members. Helen Craw-
parents and grandparents: my sister, Carol Rowsey; ford extended a welcome and invitation to return. They
Clarence and Anna Woodworth; Basil and Hilda O'Dell, became members in November, 1987.
and many, many others. Debby has been active in the church ministry seeing
It seems I have come full circle—for once again my life caring people serve God by helping people in need, as
revolves around the activities of Forrest Burdette well as by spreading the Gospel.
Church where I have very much appreciated the
ministries of Rev. Robert Johnson, Rev. Thomas
Bickerton and Rev. Charles Thompson.
BAPTIST TO METHODIST
Kim Dunlap
GOOD PREACHING AND FRIENDLY PEOPLE
I was raised a Baptist on Hurricane Creek but when I
The Graces: Jim, Joey, Lynn, Jimmy, Kerry, began dating Mark, he invited me to the Methodist
and Phillip Youth Fellowship. We traveled with the group to an
event in Virginia called FISHNET.
Jim and I and our three children, Lynn, 8, Jimmy, 6, Mark and I continued dating and I loved the church so
and Kerry, 2 1/2, moved to Hurricane from St. Albans in much that I joined on Easter Sunday, 1980. Mark and I
1962. Phillip was born two months later. were married by Rev. Bill Deel and I still remember
We had been members of the First Christian Church the kindness the church showed me when my mother
(Disciples of Christ) for four years, so we decided to passed away five months later.
make the drive back and forth to St. Albans because It wasn't until after Josh and Cody were born that I
there wasn’t a Disciples Church in Hurricane The trip became more involved in the church. I love seeing the
seemed to get longer and longer during the next three kids on Sunday rooming and watching them grow, not
years, so we reluctantly decided to find a church in only physically but spiritually. Our family has been
Hurricane. blessed by the congregation and helping serve God at
The little white Methodist Church looked inviting, so Forrest Burdette is truly a pleasure.
we went in. Reverend Byrd was the minister then. The
preaching was good and the people were friendly, so we
stayed, finally joining the church in 1967.
Through the years, our family had enjoyed many THE CHURCH IS A FAMILY
fellowship dinners, Sunday School, Bible studies, and
worshipping with our Christian friends. The church is The Ferreses: John, Betty, Shannon
much larger now, but it is also more friendly and (Warden), Erin, April (Robinson), Holly
caring. The children are grown, but we still feel that
Forrest Burdette is our church home. Eileen Holdren invited me to attend church when
our family had moved to the area from St. Albans.
I transferred membership from Morris Memorial in
Kanawha City on June 25, 1978. John and I have
always felt love and concern of our Church Family
whenever we have had family illnesses or crisis.
Prayers, cards, and visits have uplifted us and
supported us. Rev. Tom, Hilda O'Dell, and Ransford
Ransom
60
his wife, Penny Summers Fisher, and Jonathan II, live
Ransom have been so inspiring during these times. in Winfield where Penny is assistant principal at
Shannon Ferres Warden and Holly Beth have been Winfield Middle School. They are active members of
baptized and April Dawn was married to Eric Dean Winfield United Methodist Church.
Robinson at Forrest Burdette. (And now Shannon and Joe is pastor of Kanawha Valley Baptist Church in
Bill have a precious daughter who is a part of this Eleanor. He is employed by the Board of Education. He
Family.) and his wife, Teresa Higginbotham Fisher, live in
I see a great ministry at Forrest Burdette Church led Winfield with their two sons, Timothy and Stephen.
by the Holy Spirit. I thank God for my Church Family. Their sons attend Winfield schools.
Tom is owner of Fisher Construction Co. He is
married to Mary Jo Lincolnogger Fisher. They live on Rt.
34 near the Putnam County Library. Mary Jo is a
I STORY BOOK CHURCH student at West Virginia State College.
Jeff is married to Rose Ellen Bird Fisher. He is a full
The Fishers: Janet, Kenneth, Fred, Jon, Joe, time member of the 130th unit of the Air National Guard
Tom, Jeff at Yeager Airport. Rose is an employee of Standard
Food. They live in Eleanor.
One warm sunny morning in August 1 958, the We still love the Lord and the new contemporary
Fishers moved into their home on Helen Drive where Forrest Burdette Memorial United Methodist Church.
they still live. Both the Methodist and the Baptist After all, that's where our children grew up!!
pastors had been there and left a calling card. We
chose to attend Forrest Burdette Memorial Methodist
Church because we both were Methodists. WITNESSING
We were delighted! The little white country church
with a steeple looked like something from a story Nancy Simmons Freese
book. Everyone was friendly. Kenny and I attended
Basil O'Dell's young adult class in the social room I was a child growing up in Christ's family at
(now Byrd Hall). We had three sons, at that time. Forrest Burdette Memorial Methodist Church
Fred attended Billie Saunders' kindergarten class. because this was the church my parents chose.
Jonathan and Joe Timothy were in the nursery. We (I'm glad.)
united with the church in January, 1959. I joined the church in 1976 by profession of faith
Ken joined the church choir and became a member and was married to Kevin David Freese in May of
in the late 50’s and 60’s. Carol Rowsey invited me to the 1987.
Women's Society. I was a member for many years. In Hilda O'Dell has had a very strong influence on
fact, I am a past president. Ken was a member of the my life. Her prayers and example led me to Christ
Official Board and the Board of Trustees. over 15 years ago. I will always be thankful for her.
Kenneth and I lost a son in 1964 to SID's. I will
never forget the support our church family gave us
when this happened. We can never thank them
enough.
Nine great pastors have served this church since we
moved here. We have seen many families come and
go through transfer. All of them are very good people.
We now have two more sons, Tom and Jeff. Three
of our children, Joe, Tom and Jeff, were christened at
Forrest Burdette. All of our children are married and we
have five daughters-in-law and four grandchildren.
Fred, Carolyn and Natalie live in Hurricane. Fred is
an independent electrician. Carolyn works for John
Amos Power Co. Natalie attends Hurricane Town
Elementary.
Jon is a math teacher at Hurricane Middle School. He, Lay Women’s Sunday, 1980. Malinda Shanklin,
his Nancy Simmons Freese, Alica Simmons.
61
A NEW CHURCH HOME go to Sunday School and Church with them.
Then in 1939,1 started coming most of the time to
Anne A. Fulwider Forrest Burdette.
Our son, Jack, and daughter, Judith both were
Bill Deel invited Bill and I to make Forrest Burdette our christened and Dennis, who had attended Bethel
"Church Home" in June of 1981. We transferred our Baptist Church, came to Forrest Burdette. S ince that
membership from Christ Church in Charleston. time, we have tried very hard to be faithful members.
One of our most memorable occasions was the I remember very well when the North and South
celebration of our 50th wedding anniversary on April 12, Methodist Churches united together. Then the United
1986. The entire Fulwider family attended Forrest Brethren also came into the Methodist Church and we
Burdette for worship together, the first time ever. became Forrest Burdette Memorial United Methodist
I have been very happy as a member at Forrest Church.
Burdette. I was welcomed into the Family and am no (The following is a memory which still lives vividly in my
longer a "newcomer". (Ann is a very vital part of the mind.) It was during Rev. Holly Shamblin's pastorate
ministry to welcome visiting newcomers to Forrest here, one of the greatest revivals was held in our
Burdette Church.) church. I will never forget one night during the revival.
The Holy Spirit descended on the congregation like a
"great wind". It seemed to come in through the double
COMING HOME doors and settle on the congregation. It was such a
feeling of great peace. That night, no one wanted to go
Sue and Don Garrett home. I know God was there and I feel it was partly
due to the cooperation of the many different
The first Sunday we attended Forrest Burdette after denominations taking part in the meeting. There were
moving to Hurricane with four children, Dennis, Jeff, Catholics, Baptists, Nazarenes, Seven Day Adventists,
Steve and Jane (Held), we knew we had found a Presbyterians, and Methodists, all working together for the
church for us. By the time the service was over, we upbuilding of Cod's Kingdom. What a wonderful
had met all of the friendly congregation. experience it was. One a person could never forget.....
I joined on August 20, 1959 and Don followed on
April 24, 1960. Steve and Jane were baptized and we (Note: Alice and Dennis are faithful members of
became active with our children. Forrest Burdette Church. Whether there is a call for
When we were re-located to Roanoke, Virginia, for cooking, cleaning, re-modeling, baking, visiting, Alice will
two and one-half years, our church family and friends answer the call.)
became one of the main reasons for our decision to
return to Hurricane.
MEMORIES OF OUR CHURCH
Alice Hayes Gibson
Forrest Burdette United Methodist Church has
always been a part of my l i f e ever since I can
remember. My family moved just five houses below the
church when I was very small, but my parents
attended the Rock Cut Church which was about a mile
up Teays Valley Road (in fact, across the road from
Hurricane High School) and I attended church with
them. Most of the time we walked to church. When I
didn't have to go to Rock Cut, I had friends who
attended Forrest Burdette Methodist Church and I would
go
75th Anniversary preparations: Alice & Linda
Gibson, Jack Gibson, Marvin Thompson, Bob Litton,
Chuck McCane.
62
JOYS OF CONCERN THE BEAUTIFUL LITTLE
WHITE METHODIST CHURCH
Linda and Jack Glbson
The Gregory Family: Bob, Evelyn, Barbara
Jack attended Forrest Burdette Church as a child (Karastury), Phil, Mary Ruth (Blankenship), John
with his parents, AJice and Dennis, and younger sister,
.Judv. Rev. Holly Shamblin baptized him when he was 12 Our family was transferred to West Virginia in
years old. August, 1966, from Alexandria, Virginia.
I attended St. Paul's United Methodist Church in The first Sunday we lived here, we came to the
Nitro, where I was baptized by Rev. L loyd Myers beautiful little white Methodist Church, with a very
when I was 12. warm greeting. Rev. Byrd was the pastor.
Being very active in church as MYF President, With Mrs. Byrd’s insisting, Evelyn attended the
youth representative on the Administrative Board and a September meeting of the Susanna Wesley Circle and
“regular" in Sunday School with 14 years perfect she still attends today.
attendance, I guess I was destined to be an active In September, 1966, Bob and Evelyn joined Forrest
participant of ministry at Forrest Burdette. I transferred Burdette by transfer from Heaters United Methodist
my membership from St. Paul's after marriage to Jack Church of Heater, West Virginia, along with Barbara
on July 2, 1959. and Phil by transfer from St. Paul Methodist of
We have raised three daughters, Cheri, Beth and Woodbridge, Virginia.
Jan, in the church and they all have been active in In 1967, Mary Ruth was baptized and joined and in
youth activities throughout their young lives. 1972, John was baptized and joined Forrest Burdette.
Some of our most memorable occasions have been Bob was on the building committee with Mayo
the christening and baptism of our daughters; the Lester, Howard Smith, Burl Neeley, Lyle Smith for the
marriage ceremonies of Beth and Scott (Krall) and new church sanctuary. The pastor was Rev. Charlie
Cheri and Mike (Rollyson); and the christening of our Hinkle. Bob, with experience in foundations on his job.
grandchildren, Derek and Rachel Krall. was over the foundation for the new building.
We are members of the Loyal Pioneer Sunday In 1981, we had two weddings in our church.
School Class of which Jack serves as class president. Barbara to Gary Karastury from Pennsylvania (Rev.
Jack had been active as a trustee and now serves on the Bill Deel) and Phil to Mary Newsome (Rev. Slates).
parsonage committee and is a member of the Methodist Mary Ruth married Bob Blankenship in 1981, and in
Men. 1989, John married Debbie Hebere of Bastrgs,
I have served as president of the United Methodist Louisiana.
Women and am a member of the Loyal Pioneers and There are six grandchildren, Jamie and Anthony
Dorothy Anderson Circle. Gregory, Davi d Karastury, Kelly, Rachel and Robbie
We have been coordinators of the Memorial Day Blankenship (three attending this church).
Partners in Mission Project at the I-64 Rest Area. This is It has been a wonderful church for the entire family as
probably one of the most rewarding projects in there was a place for everyone, from Junior Choir
which we are involved because we are able to witness to through MYF and more beginning again with the
others the "Good News" of Jesus Christ our Savior and grandchildren.
show others that Forrest Burdette United Methodist
Church is a caring and sharing congregation.
(Note: At age 11, Jack's JOY was so great when WW II "MEMORABLE"
was declared ended, that he ran all the way to the
Church to ring the bell!) Jo Anne Gyke
My husband, daughter and I moved to Hurricane
from Beckley in June 1970. Paul was a State
Policeman and we were transferred to Charleston. He is
a now retired after serving thirty years.
63
Three days after we moved in, Reverend and Mrs. A LIFETIME OF MEMORIES
Byrd came for a visit, so choosing Forrest Burdette 135 years
was not a hard decision. The following week, while at Carl Henderson - member 72 years
Girl Scout Camp, I met Helen King. Helen invited me to
attend church with her and Jack and they would pick me At a very early age, when my mother's parents
up Sunday. I graciously accepted and found died, she and a younger sister were taken to live with
everyone to be very receptive and friendly. I had my their grandparents, Joseph A. Pratt, Sr. near Pulaski,
membership moved from St. Mary's Methodist in Virginia. It was in this part of the state of Virginia that the
Beckley to Forrest Burdette shortly after. famous Methodist "Preacher Sheffy" held his great
During this same summer, Hilda O'Dell asked me to revivals and my mother became very interested in
teach Bible School and Sunday School and I have been Methodism.
teaching since then. I taught the three-year-olds for Mother returned to Hurricane for a visit about 1895,
several years and later moved upstairs to teach the met and married my father. They lived a distance
third grade. southwest of Hurricane. My father died just a little past
I have had many memorable experiences while his 25th birthday when I was not quite two years of age.
being a member at Forrest Burdette. They began right Mother and we three children continued to live on the
after we moved here working with the different Girl farm until November 12, 1918, when we moved to
Scout Troops we had years ago. I served as a Hurricane.
leader-trainer and Senior Advisor for the troops at My aunt, Edith Hall, had returned to Hurricane from
Forrest Burdette. Perhaps my most memorable Virginia sometime earlier, and she and her family were
experiences will be those I have had working with active members of Forrest Burdette Memorial Church.
children, helping the Methodist Women with projects, I enrolled in the Sunday School on November 24,
and serving on the Education Committee. 1918. Our family looked forward to walking to prayer
Paul and I will always remember April 9, 1983, meeting on Wednesday evenings, to Sunday School
when Reverend Bill Deel married our daughter, Shelia, to and church on Sunday mornings and evenings.
Steve Skinner in our beautiful sanctuary. Methodism and the church became a constant subject
I love my church family. It has been a great joy and a
in our home.
blessing watching our church grow spiritually and in
During the early years, Forrest Burdette Memorial
number over the last twenty years.
was a part of a "charge" which meant we only had a
minister one or two Sundays a month. I would like to
state that we have had very fine ministers all down
through the years. There was a great revival in 1918,
THREE GENERATIONS before we came to live in Hurricane; however, it was
during the great and glorious revival of 1920, that I
Jane and William Gregory Held was saved and became a member of the church. (My
sister, Gladys Henderson and I, along with a dear
I was baptized as an infant and was brought to
friend, Edith Roberts, are the only converts left from
Forrest Burdette Church by my parents, Sue and
that revival.)
Don Garrett.
We have had many great revivals. It has been
Greg was brought up in the Baptist faith, but
stated that, as a result of one of them, there were more
after our marriage, we made the decision to unite
Baptist Converts than Methodist!
with Forrest Burdette and brought our new son,
I graduated from Curry District High School (now
William Gregory Held, Jr., for baptism both on
Hurricane High School) on June 5, 1923, the first
October 29, 1989.
graduating class in Hurricane and in Putnam County.
I have many fond memories of Sunday School,
The Baccalaureate Service was held in our church.
roaming the classrooms upstairs with friends and
It has been my privilege to serve in almost all the
the combined classes singing with Brenda Duke
offices of the church and to be associated with some of
McBrayer, our teacher.
the finest and caring people on earth. I enjoyed so
We see Forrest Burdette Memorial United
much being Sunday School Superintendent, especially
Methodist Church as a fast growing church with a
working with the little children. The Lord has blessed
caring ministry which has become truly a "church
me mightily down through the years of my life in so
family" for us.
many ways I can't begin to count them. There are many
persons
64
persons of the church who have been so kind and movie theater. We raised money for activities with
caring toward me and my family these many years. ice cream suppers in the summer or with each
One of the greatest blessings of my life, that came youngster earning dimes and quarters doing chores
through the church, was the meeting of the girl who for the local merchants or weeding gardens. The
became my wife, Agnes. group also assisted with the Sunday evening
services in the absence of the pastor. Those were
Agnes Burns Henderson-member 63 years such happy and fruitful days at Forrest Burdette
Memorial.
My earliest memories of church was as a tiny little In 1940, I found employment in Charleston and
girl. My mother took me to Sunday School at a little had to leave my beloved church. However, with the
Methodist Church upon the corner from our home in aid of C&P Telephone yellow pages, I found
Huntington, West Virginia. My daddy gave me Humphries Memorial Methodist Church, a
pennies for Sunday School. I recited my first "piece" at congregation very much like Forrest Burdette. I
the age of three at the Christmas program and I spent several years at this fine church working in
remember taking a quarter to Sunday School to be the Women's Society of Christian Service and
sent across the ocean to buy food for the starving teaching a young adult Sunday School class. I
children of Europe after World War I. I cherished the returned home to Forrest Burdette in 1968.
little picture card given me by my teacher each In the meantime, I had met and married the
Sunday. Mommie would read the story of Jesus on the "greatest" young man, I had ever known. We had
back until I learned to read. worked together in the 30’s at Forrest Burdette and
It was in 1921 or 22, that my Dad purchased a small were married in 1949. The Lord has been so good
farm in Teays Valley, although he continued to work to both of us!
lights at the C&O railway shops in Huntington. We There have been so many people of the church
were without a church, the nearest being two miles who have helped me "along the way". If I tried to
down a dirt road, but Mommie continued our Bible name them, I would leave someone out. The
stories from "Aunt Charlotte's Bible Reader." We did influence of the scriptures and daily prayer have
move into town several winters so the smallest been the source of my strength.
children could attend school from September to May. It The singing of hymns at Forrest Burdette have
was a bit far to walk the mile or mile and a half to the been such comforting joy for roe. I remember when
one room school! The winters, we came to town, we at the age of eleven, my little friend, Enid, and I
attended Forrest Burdette Memorial. As we grew older, were allowed to attend the Methodist revival down
we attended Rock Cut Methodist in the summer time and the street, from our home, on Putnam Avenue. The
later, Forrest Burdette Memorial. weather was warm, the church windows and doors
In 1929, Forrest Burdette had another of it's great were open, and Enid’s dad would come to the
revivals, and it was then, I gave my heart to the Lord overhead bridge to await dismissal of service to
Jesus Christ. Oh! What joy it has been to walk with walk us home. He so enjoyed the closing hymn
Him these many years. He has guided my stumbling "Love Lifted Me, when nothing else could help,
steps, forgiven me when I have failed Him and LOVE Lifted Me" or "Since Jesus Came into My
comforted me in time of trouble. Heart, Since Jesus Came into My Heart, Floods of
Rev. Elmo Kelly was pastor, at that time. Every Joy o'er my Soul, Like sea billows ROLL, Since
time, today, when I meet Ruby Pullen in church, the Jesus Came into My Heart". The little church roof
memories of those days return so vividly as she just about lifted as the Methodists sang and the
became a part of Forrest Burdette, at that same time. people passing on Main Street would pause to
(We are the only ones left of the twenty-three converts of listen. We no longer open our windows, but
that meeting, unless others live elsewhere.) wouldn't it be wonderful if our church could have
I had the privilege of being youth counselor during the chimes to bring the hymns of the church to our
1930’s. We had Bible lessons from "Hurlbert's Story of community, maybe at noontime and evening?
the Bible", the only available material, at that time. We (These are wonderful Dreams!)
also participated in the special church celebrations There are many verses from the scriptures
at Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. We had learned at Forrest Burdette. I don't think we really
picnics in the summer and parties at members' homes in have a favorite. God gives His words to us for our
the winter or attended a movie at the local movie needs. Those coming to mind are from Mary's
song: "My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord
and my Spirit exults in God, my Savior." Luke 1: 46-
47.
65
And from the ancient prophet: "Although the fig In 1962, James was born into our family. Mrs.
tree shall not blossom neither shall fruit be in the Vine! Anna Woodworth was one of his favorite persons.
The labor of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall She saved all the treasures from the cereal boxes
yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold and he collected them when we visited her at her
and there shall be no herd in the stalls. Yet, I shall home. Vada Ramsey was his nursery teacher. All
rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my three of our sons grew up in Forrest Burdette,
salvation, The Lord is my Strength." Habakkuk attended Sunday School, Church Services, MYF and
3:17-19 Scouts.
And the greatest promise given to all of us, We have many memories from Forrest
"......Where I am there you may be also." Jesus Burdette, especially a revival which was held by
John 14:3 SHALOM! Rev. Barnette that was inspiring. We are thankful for
the souls saved in the church over the years.
Rollie was chairman of the Building Committee
when the new Sunday School Rooms were added
to the old Sanctuary. Both he and I had the privilege
of teaching children and youth in the Sunday School
and MYF.
John and Jolene Ward were to be married in our
church in May of 1974. We were in the process of
building the new sanctuary which, to our dismay, was
not completed. The carpet and pews were yet to be
installed. We were determined to have the wedding
there and we swept the floor and set up folding
chairs. Rev. Charles Hinkle performed the ceremony
on May 4.
In August of 1974, Jeffrey was united in marriage
with Terry Burks in a completed sanctuary.
There are so many friends and people who
Carl and Agnes Henderson, 1988 inspired us in our 26 years at Forrest Burdette, it is
not feasible to list them all, but we are thankful for
each one of them.
FROM THERE TO HERE We are no longer members due to our move to
Jackson County in 1985. We are now part of a small
Mary K. Hill Methodist Church Family here. We keep in touch with
the church through our friends and on occasion,
Rollie, Jeffrey, John and I moved to Hurricane in we visit there. We think many times of Hilda O'Dell
the Summer of 1959. Rollie and I were members of St. and how when there was a problem she would say,
Andrews Methodist Church and we had heard of "Well, we will just have to pray about that". And
Forrest Burdette from Mrs. Ethel Litton, who was a that, we think, is the secret of a ministering church.
member also. She spoke of her family who attended
there and her nephew, Ellis Boso, who was the
Sunday School Superintendent, at that time. She
assured us we would be welcome in the fellowship THE JOY OF MUSIC
of Forrest Burdette Church.
Our home was not completed yet and we were Eileen Holdren
living in the basement with a mess all around us. The
first Sunday we were there it was pouring the rain. To Forrest Burdette Memorial Methodist Church has
the surprise of our neighbors, we made ready and been the family church for Sam, Barbara, Sam, Jr.,
braved the mud and elements to go out to church. and myself since the ministry of Rev. Byrd.
Basil O'Dell was the teacher of the Loyal Pioneer Barbara Ann was married to Richard Adkins on
Class and he soon visited us in our home. Rev. September 9,1978, and was a very special occasion
Thomas Schuler was the Pastor and he invited us in our lives.
to join or transfer our membership, which we did.
66
HOME FOR 27 YEARS
Working with the children's choirs and Christmas
presentations have been some of the highlights of the Karen and Phil Hyre
past years. Watching these children grow and become
aduJts is very rewarding. Many, who came to choir, The Hyre family chose Forrest Burdette Church in
were so shy and could not sing out or perform a solo. 1964 when they moved to Culloden. Karen came from
I have enjoyed singing in the Adult Choir and the Otterbein EUB Church in Huntington and Phil had
working with the many adults interested in singing for belonged to Darlington Methodist in So. Charleston.
“fun". Basil O'Dell was the Sunday school teacher, Allan
When I went to Cleveland, for open heart surgery,(I Parish was the minister.
didn't have to have it), the little singing group of Karen sang in the choir and was active in the
women all went to the alter to pray for me. Women's Society. She remembers making Easter eggs
I remember when the new sanctuary was being the first year they were sold.
built. We left on vacation and when we returned and Teaching a course to knit slippers in Bible School
attended Sunday morning service in the new sanctuary, I was also a memorable occasion——some job that
cried for joy. was!!!
Music and the concern of the caring congregation of Phil and Karen have two daughters, Cynthia and
Forrest Burdette have shown the Lord's Love. Susan. Susan was born the day after the first service in
the new sanctuary and was the first baby christened.
Both girls have always loved working in the nursery.
(That's generally where you will find Susan.)
We have lived here during the service of several
ministers, seen families move away and good friends
pass away. Our fondest memories are of new people
seen weekly from the vantage point of the choir loft.
We pray that the growth never ceases and the Spirit
will always be our guide.
SCOUTING MINISTRY
Eileen and the Goodtime Singers
Linda and Bill Keener
THANKS Bill has been active in the scouting program for
many years working with Charles Graham and many
Utauka M. Hughes others. It has been a rewarding experience and a
worthwhile ministry for many.
My husband, Howard, and I joined Forrest Bill (a member since 1962) and Linda (joined in
Burdette in November, 1988, when we knew this 1981) were united in marriage by Rev. Deel.
church would fulfill our needs. Bill and Linda see Forrest Burdette as a caring
Since the death of my husband, this church group church with continued growth for years to come.
has truly become my "family". This gives me an
opportunity to thank all of you who have truly become mv
friends!
67
MEMORIES
The Landers Family: Okey, Carol, Chris, Amy
The e nthusiasm of the congregation, the ministry,
the warmth of fellowship and community involvement led
the Landers family to unite with Forrest Burdette in 1977.
Carol explained that she had known Hilda O'Dell's
family since her childhood and was delighted that
Chris and Amy would also come to value her
friendship.
Since there were few actual family members present
in the immediate area, the Lander's family adopted
their church family and cherish their memories of the
Scott and Beth Gibson Krall youth choirs, holiday activities and friendships made
Derek and Rachel among the congregation.
The Landers family miss Forrest Burdette Church
and send a God Bless You everyday!!
CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCE
Beth Krall
A CHURCH AND A FAMILY
I thank God for the opportunity of being raised in
the church here at Forrest Burdette. Over the years, Karen and Jerry Lilly
I've had so many people touch my life and help
influence my Christian walk. Choosing a church in Hurricane was not a difficult
I have had so many beautiful experiences. It was in task for the Lilly family in 1968. Forrest Burdette
Byrd Hall that I had my first moment of salvation, Memorial Methodist was a small, quaint, friendly
when I nailed a list of my sins to a cross that church providing us with a new family in our new
symbolized Christ dying to take away my sins. home.
In our sanctuary, Richard Scott Krall and I were Throughout my early childhood, I was always the
married on September 17, 1983, and began a new youngest member of the adult Sunday School class,
chapter in our lives. Also, we have celebrated the WSCS, WCTU, and my mother's circle. Setting a table for
baptism of our children, Derek Scott and Rachel a dinner was second nature to me!!
Nicole, in two of the most meaningful services to us. I was baptized, an infant, at Christ Church United
Along my Christian journey, I've also experienced Methodist in Clarksburg , at age 12, joined the church
some very low times in my faith here at Forrest by profession of faith and remained active in youth
Burdette, but God has always provided someone with a activities until August 19, 1962, when Jerry and I
kind word, a smile or a hug to help me. shared the vows of commitment in marriage.
a
My prayer for my f mily and my church family is Jerry had been raised in the Baptist faith and
that we may continue to grow closer to one another in participated in BYF activities.
Christ, so we can help each other through our Christian Our children, Jerry Alan was christened at my home
journey. church in Clarksburg, while Timothy, and Kristin were
baptized, as babies, at St. Peters United Methodist
Church in St. Albans.
Upon joining Forrest Burdette, involvement in
witnessing and ministry was very important. Although
Jerry was not active early in our membership, he has
served on the Finance Committee, Board of Trustees
and Administrative Board since the early 80's.
The Landers Family: Okey, Carol, Chris, Amy
68
thank every one for this.
Through the years, participating in church activities I am happy for this church which has served me, my
have afforded us the opportunities to make long and husband, my daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren
lasting friendships which have sustained us through for many years.
our sorrows and uplifted us in the joyous occasions of a
25th wedding anniversary, the marriages of Timothy &
Sherry (Greene) and Kristin & Darryl Bowers and the
birth of two beautiful grandchildren, Jesse & Jacob.
The memories of our church in 1968 are so vivid and
pleasant. It was indeed sad for many when the lovely
quaint sanctuary was razed and new construction
began. But excitement prevailed and grew as the
months passed and we saw the beautiful stained glass
window and the construction completed.
During the months of building, the congregation
met in Byrd Hall for all services and activities. I can
remember when we joined together for our first
services in the new sanctuary. Our congregation
seemed so small in such a large room, but look at us
now——two Sunday morning services and still growing
in the same friendly family way as when the Ljlly Family
was welcomed so many years ago.
Mark & Teresa Annette Barron/Frank E. McKnight
FAITH AND INSPIRATION
Betty and Frank McKnight
Frank and I were married at the Sixth Street
Methodist Church in Charleston in 1956 (celebrating 35
First Sunday in new Sanctuary, Beth Gibson Krall Kim years in July of 1991). We lived in St. Albans and were
Cole, Shannon Ferres Warden, Timothy Lilly, July, 1974. members of St. Andrew United Methodist Church until we
purchased a home in Hurricane and transferred our
membership in 1958.
RETIREMENT CHURCH We adopted a daughter, Teresa, in March, 1963 and
four years and three months later, a son, Frank, Jr.
Beulah McCallister They are both wonderful young people and have been
the "lights" of our family. (Teresa was married to Mark
Oran and I moved into our retirement home at 205 Barron at Forrest Burdette Church in July, 1986.)
Irene Circle, December, 1974. Oran served on the Several people have been an inspiration to me over
Official Board and was an usher. I was a member of the years, among them Hilda O'Dell, Agnes Henderson
the United Methodist Women. We transferred our and Alice Gibson (wedding director for Teresa's
membership here from St. Andrew United Methodist wedding), all Circle friends.
Church in St. Albans, January, 1975. The Church has grown so much over the years and I
We enjoyed the Wesley Pioneer Sunday School feel the good leadership of our Minister, Choir
class. All of the church people have been very nice to Director and the faith of many others have helped us to be
us. When my husband was ill, the church helped me by the inspiration in the community.
furnishing food and praying. At the time of his death,
the church family supported me in every way. I thank
69
MEMORABLE TIMES PRAYER IS THE ANSWER
Carol and Earl Miller Hilda O'Dell
Carol moved to Hurricane from Charleston in The Basil O'Dell family moved to Hurricane in
1961, with her parents, Dorothy and James 1947, but continued to go back to South Charleston to
Ranson. Her mother chose Forrest Burdette the First United Methodist Church for 4 years.
because the Methodist beliefs were so similar to In April of 1951, we moved our membership to
those practiced in her home church, Weekley Forrest Burdette since it was the only Methodist
Memorial Evangelical United Brethren. After Church in this area. At that time, Linda was 6 1/2, E. E.
attending Sunday School and church for many was 4 1/2 and Bobby was born in September. (Our son,
years, Carol became a member in 1968. Buddy, 10 1/2, was killed in October after, we had moved
Earl moved to the Charleston area from to Hurricane in August).
Carrollton, Ohio, in 1978, after graduating from I became active in the Children's Department and
Ohio State University. He and Carol met in 1979, Basil in the business and administration of the church.
thru their jobs at Union Carbide and were married in He later taught the Young Adult Class and God used
Forrest Burdette by Rev. Bill Deel on November 14, him to help many people to become members before
1981. Although Earl had always attended church he died in 1967.
with Carol, he did not transfer his membership from E. E. married Jenny Lynn Pile from Dunbar and
the First Presbyterian Church in Carrollton until their two children, Anna and Eddie, were both
December, 1989. baptized in this church. (At present, they live with
After nine years of marriage, Carol and Earl were their mother in Dunbar.) E. E. married Michelle
blessed with the birth of a son, Keith Andrew, on Neuman in August, 1990, in this church.
August 13, 1990. Keith attended church for the very Linda was married to Leroy Anderson in November,
first time on the 75th Anniversary Celebration 1975. They lived away from here until December,
Sunday and was later baptized by the Rev. Thomas 1990. She had been sick with cancer since June, 1989.
J. Bickerton on December 9,1990. Linda died July 1, 1990, and the funeral was at Forrest
Throughout the years, Carol and Earl have been Burdette Church.
involved in many of the activities of Forrest Bobby and Rhonda were married in July of 1975, at
Burdette. Carol has taught Sunday School, served as Kinston, NC in her home church which is Lutheran.
Treasurer of the United Methodist Women and They have three children, Mary Casey, Maggie and
Secretary of the Administrative Board and has Mallory. All have been baptized in this church.
been a member of the Missions/Outreach I have loved this church since the first Sunday we
Workarea, Women's Softball Team and Ranson walked in the door. It is a praying, caring church that
Circle. tries to minister to the needs of people. I have truly
Earl has coached the Women's Softball Team, appreciated the support and prayer during all the years
been a member of the Age Level and Family of my membership.
Committee and served as a dishwasher for the I believe the happiest times in the church have been
United Methodist Women. when I've been singing in the choir or working with the
The most memorable experiences Carol and children and youth musical programs.
Earl have had at Forrest Burdette include working
at the annual United Methodist Women's Turkey
Dinner and the church's Memorial Day rest stop
ministry and portraying the Holy Family during the
children's Christmas program in 1990. The persons
who have inspired them the most include Carol's
mother, Dorothy Ranson, and the Gibson and
Rowsey families.
Carol and Earl have experienced the highpoint
(birth) and lowpoint (death) that can occur within a
family. Throughout each experience, the people of
Forrest Burdette have provided loving support. In
Carol and Earl's opinion, the ministry of Forrest
Burdette Memorial United Methodist Church truly is
one of compassion. In recognition of Hilda's birthday, August ,1980
70
I believe we are going to grow both in numbers and in I could write a book about my experiences in this
spiritual power if each member feels the need to pray church. In 1987,1 had a heart operation and was in the
and work for the Kingdom of God in this place. hospital for 69 days. This church was with us all the
way, praying and ministering to our needs. The
THE RIGHT PLACE TO BE doctors thought I would come home in a wheelchair,
but the Lord didn't see it that way. Men of the church
Terry Quentrill put up hand rails on my steps and back porch. I
believe that the good Lord let me walk mostly due to
I joined with Forrest Burdette United Methodist prayers of my church.
Church on December 23, 1990, after Rev. Tom and In July, 1990, Opal got sick and was in the hospital
members of the church supported me and my family six times. Each time my second family really looked
through the death of my father the previous November. after us. In February, 1991, the Lord saw fit to take
I had attended other churches but this church "felt" "Mother" (Opal) home. There, again, was my church.
like it was the "right place to be". They stood by me and my family all the way. I will
Gene and I experienced a new meaning of Christ's never be able to thank my "Second Family" enough or
birth when we brought our daughter, Molly, (20 my Pastor, Tom Bickerton.
months old) to be baptized at the Christmas Eve.
Service on December 24,1990.
A CHURCH VOCATION
Rex and Debbie Rexroad
Stephanie, Travis and Christopher
Rex and I have been in the Hurricane area almost
two years now and we feel we have been here forever.
Rex works for the U. S. Soil Conservation Service and
was transferred to the Hurricane Office in July of 1990
from Kingwood, WV. During our years of marriage, we
have lived in the northern part of the state and
endured the winters of Tucker and Preston Counties.
What a change for us to be in this area! We've also
never had the opportunity to be so close to cities as
large as Huntington and Charleston and experience
the great amount of activity that we find ourselves
involved in. We have three children ranging from
Ransford & Opal Ce lebrated 50 th Golden Anniversary, 1990 Senior High School to Kindergarten and life is very
busy.
OUR SECOND FAMILY AT FORREST I feel a great joy in being employed by Forrest
BURDETTE Burdette Memorial United Methodist Church as the
Church Secretary. It seems rather strange to consider
Ransford Ransom this as my employment because working as a volunteer
in the church has always been a part of my life. This,
Opal and I, with our two children, Kaven and sometimes, causes me to struggle with separating my
Shelia, moved to Hurricane in 1956. We started to role as the Church Secretary and my role as a member
Forrest Burdette because we had been going to a of the church. I have always had a desire to be
Methodist Church in Charleston. Robert Beaver, Don involved in a church vocation and wondered many
and Carol Rowsey were friends and members of the times how God might use my gifts and graces in that
church. manner. Rex and I feel that our life together has been a
Kaven was married in the old sanctuary. We didn't gift from God and God has led us to new ventures
change our membership until later on. and new homes. I am sure that God led us to the
Hurricane area and to Forrest Burdette Church.
71
Life at Forrest Burdette totally consumes our family MY MEMORIES OF FORREST
many days. We have come to the conclusion, though, BURDETTE UNITED METHODIST
that the fellowship we receive from the friends we CHURCH
have here and the spiritual renewal we experience at
worship and in Disciple is worth the time and the Billie (Billups) Saunders
energy we give. We are sure that this church will be
here for many more years to come and we are thankful I moved to Hurricane with my parents, Harold &
that we will have had the opportunity to be even a Bertha Billups from Ohio when I was four years old.
small part of its history. The first memory I have of the Church is attending
with my Grandparents, "Ed" & "Fanny" Billups. The
EARLY MEMORIES pews were wood and hard and the Pastor (I don't
remember his name) preached for a "long time". I
Carol S. Rowsey would wiggle and ask Grandmother when we could go
home. Her reply was always "Shhhhh, sit still and stop
Forrest Burdette Church has always played an wiggling".
important role in my life. My mother, Thelma, was When I was a little older, my friend, Dorothy
present the second Sunday church was held. She was (Cremeans) Sovine, and I would talk Mr. Bill Black into
four years of age, at the time. lifting us up to ring the Church bell. He would lift us up to
Donald and I were married at Forrest Burdette in the rope and let us swing up & down a couple of times,
1950. Our three children, LaDonna, Howard and Jan then lift us down. To us, this was "Great".
have attended Forrest Burdette since birth and have
participated in the various children’s groups, youth
groups, choirs and adult activities of the church.
My earliest memories are of the church and the
people associated with it. Looking back over the
years, many people come to mind such as Mae Smith,
Mrs. Roberman, Anna Woodworth, Alice Hall and
Allie Coyner. They worked with the children's
department and the Women's Society along with many
other activities of the church. They, as well as many
others, were a very important part of my early
experiences at Forrest Burdette.
1941, Dorothy Cremeans & Billie Billups Saunders
When the old sanctuary was torn down to make way
for the present structure, I was quite sad and couldn't
bear to look at the bare lot where it had stood. I soon I remember the Sunday School was in a building
realized that although it held many memories for me, back of the Church. Mrs. Roberman was the
Children's Superintendent, Geka Stover was our
the building itself didn't make the church. God's
teacher and Grandad was the Sunday School
people are the church and there have been, and are
Superintendent. Once in a while, Dorothy and I would
now, many good people who will make Forrest
keep our nickle, (for the Sunday School offering) and
Burdette Church grow and live on into the future for our
go to Bemice Sovine's Ice Cream Parlor and hope our
grandchildren. I am both proud and thankful to have
parents did not find out. T hey did! And we paid the
been a part of Forrest Burdette Memorial United
price!!
Methodist Church.
I did not attend Church much through the teen
(NOTE:) The Caldwells, neighbors of Don and Carol
years, although, I do remember Charlie Duke taking us
Rowsey, witnessed to the "Christian Love" the (MYF or Sunday School Class) to Camden Park,
Rowsevs have shown for over thirty years in their Roller Skating and etc.
next-door relationship. “Unselfishly shared I did not plan to be married in this Church, but
whatever they had, always ready to lend a helping Grandmother Billups wanted me to and she was
hand, without expecting in return, laughing in joyous not able to go to Charleston. Jack, my fiancée, and
times, and comforting in times of sorrow and I stopped at the parsonage and asked Rev.
bereavement.” This is the ministry of Forrest Donahoe if he would marry us in the Church. After
Burdette within the Community. explaining I was Ed Billups’ granddaughter (he did
not
72
not know either one of us), he agreed to perform financial campaigns, circuit rider programs, revivals
the ceremony on April 4, 1952. and the never ending meetings, the up times and
After our first child Jane was born, we felt we the down times, the good and the not so good
should get back in Church. We went to Sunday times, Forrest Burdette Church has become a very
School, the class was so small it was in the caring and friendly Church that is always there with
Pastor's Study, and the class was not friendly. But I support, warmth, and Christian Love. I Thank all of you
have a tendency to get angry instead of hurt — I and Love you all very much.....
went back anyway. We lost our second child and
Rev. Mentz performed the graveside service.
Jennie Counts was the only person from the
Church that came to see me. I was pretty bitter for
quite a while.
Basil and Hilda O'Dell had moved to Hurricane
and we were told they had worked hard to build up
the Young Adult Sunday School Class. Dorothy
Sovine and Maxine Hunt came to see us and
invited us to the revival services. Rev. Barnett was
preaching at the Church. I told them I was not
interested and Dorothy said she had been praying
so hard that we would attend the services. Jack and
I talked it over (and I did not want Dorothy to think
God wasn't listening to her) so I decided to go one
night, just for her. Conversion was the last thing on
my mind, but I went back and a couple of nights
later, was converted. Jack was converted a few
days later. Rev. Mentz baptized about 20 of us at
April 24, 1953: Burl & Irsil Neeley, Laura & John E. Smith
the Baptist Church on Mother's Day.
and Myrtle & Charles Smith.
f
Joann (Ellis) Adkins and I established the i rst
Girl Scout Brownie Troop sponsored by the Church
about 1955. It was a lot of work, but it was a A CHILD SHALL LEAD THEM
successful project.
When our son, Mark, was about three years old, I
John E. & Laura (Neeley) Smith
started teaching the Kindergarten Class with
Loretta (Wise) Beaver and continued for eleven The Christian example of good neighboring brought
years with Laura (Neeley) Smith, Jennie Counts,
me to Forrest Burdette as a young child of two.
Tene Barcroft, Jackie Kessler, Virginia Valentine Coming from a lineage of staunch Baptists, it was
and others. I loved every year of it, four and five indeed a change when I began accompanying Mrs.
year olds are special little people. Jack taught the
Alice Hall to Sunday School. My increased participation
High School Class and we both were in the Choir in activities at the church led my father to accompany me
at different times. We also served on several there. When Burl L. Neeley joined the church in 1943,
different committees.
he began a life long commitment to service in the
Both my Grandparents' funeral services were in church and it's extension to the community-at-large.
the Church. When my Mother died and Jack was He was especially interested and involved in the
killed ten months later, I don't know what I would Sunday School superintendency and the work of the
have done without the support of the Church. The Board of Trustees where he served over the years.
Church Family was wonderful to us. Rev. Byrd did John E. Smith began attending and joined the
Jack's funeral service. My daughter, Jane, was church while we were dating in the 1950's. He taught a
married in the Church May 13, 1989. Rev. Johnson boy's Sunday School class and sang in the choir with
kindly let Rev. Leo Pauley, a special friend and a me. Our marriage in 1953 was solemized here at
former member of the Church, come to perform the Forrest Burdette by Rev. Holly Shamblin (1940-1945)
ceremony. who had promised me, at age eleven, that he would
While teaching Sunday School, attending circle come back and marry me.
meetings, committee meetings, loyalty dinners,
times
73
Over the years, John and I have served the church in Sunday School classes with a small nursery room. A
many ways and at times it seemed to be our second curtain was pulled to separate the classroom. Mrs.
home. For some reason, you seem to remember the Roberman was the Children's Superintendent and Mrs.
stressful times in your life and at these times, our Withrow was a teacher. (When our class would get a
church family has always been there for us. little rowdy, Mrs. Roberman would stick her head
The years saw our three sons, Richard, Victor & between the curtain and remind us we were there to
Jeffrey baptized and joining us in the youth and other study the WORD!)
church endeavors. Victor and Jeff were married here And Study the WORD, we did. We were expected to
and Rick served as trustee and Sunday School teacher memorize a verse of scripture to recite each S unday
prior to his moving with his wife to the Hurricane morning. These scripture verses, which I can recite
Baptist Church. In the background, during the many today, have given me much strength throughout the
years, was my mother, Irsil Gibson Neeley, also a years.
member, who, while staying home with my brother, When we became 12 years old, we could go to the
Bobby, supported her family's efforts with prayer and Sunday School class in the "loft" over the choir and
pride. have Sunday School opening service with the adult
The funeral services for my father, Burl, were made classes. We thought we were really grown-up, then.
more comforting and meaningful due to the fact that Dennis Gibson and Opal Coyner were two of
they were held in a sanctuary which was built under teachers.
his co-chairmanship, the multiple years of service by When I think of my teen years at Forrest Burdette,
this extended family include work on various Faye Miller and Charlie Duke come to mind. They
committees and boards, singing in, directing and were my mentors. Always encouraging me and being
accompanying choirs, teaching, organizing, and loyally there when I needed someone to talk to. I've always
attending services all of which demonstrates one of loved music and was a member of the youth choir
the major thrusts of this church-family involvement. directed by Faye Miller and Doris Clark. The ladies
Today, this continues to be a strength and to had the "patience of Job", and we tried that patience
provide countless opportunities for others, including every week.
little children, to lead. John and I live with the hope that The youth choir was selected to go to Buckhannon
one day Victor and Jeffery will return to Forrest to church camp with Illia Jayne Pullen Andrews,
Burdette with their families to continue on our family's Lenore Coulter L eake, George Coyner and Tommy
service to our Lord and to Forrest Burdette Memorial Winter. It was the most meaningful experience of my
United Methodist Church. youth and many of us made our decisions to follow
Christ, at that time.
When Bob and I married, we became a part of
FAMILY, FRIENDS, MEMORIES O'Dell's Sunday School Class. Basil & Hilda were a
wonderful influence on the young couples in
JoAnne and Bob Sovine church, always very caring and supportive. Our
children, Robert Lee and Debbie were both christened
Forrest Burdette United Methodist Church has when Rev. Mentz served as Pastor.
always been a vital part of my life. I grew up in the Many things come to mind as I reflect back over the
church and have many fond memories of so many years and many funny stories could be told, if space
wonderful people, I have worked with through the permitted. The people of Forrest Burdette are like
years. family. I have always felt a sense of great love and
ery
When I was a v small child, my parents took the pride for my church and am looking forward to bigger
family to Sunday School, Sunday morning church, and better things as we continue to grow in Spirit as
Sunday night church, Wednesday night prayer and well as in numbers.
revivals (which, sometimes, lasted three weeks.)
Our educational building was a large room for
Sunday
74
THE SENSE OF FAMILY A METHODIST HERITAGE
Linda Clark Swan Harriet Morgan Taylor
The family of Forrest Burdette Memorial Methodist My mother and father and their families were all
Church has been my own since I was nine years old, Methodists and it never occurred to me to be anything
and I was invited here by my friend, Nancy Canterbury, else. My husband, Dalton, and I have four daughters,
whose father, Homer, was Sunday School Carolyn P. Bowles, Linda J. Harshbarger, Nancy J.
Superintendent. The people were warm and caring and Williams and Pamela J. Lemaster and seven
genuinely interested in each other as they are now. I grandchildren.
soon committed my life to Christ and was baptized by I have attended Forrest Burdette since 1956 and was
Rev. Ira Mentz. united with the church on August 21, 1983, at an
During my growing up years, I learned so much outdoor communion service at the home of Jim and
from devoted and caring teachers in our Sunday Glenna Burdette. Rev. Bill Deel was our minister.
School. There was a Circle for teen-age girls lead by Basil and Hilda O'Dell, my sister, Mrs. Virginia
Jo Anne Sovine and Babe Bennett, who left me with a Valentine, Carol Rowsey and Rev. Bill Dee] have all
definite impression of what Christian women should be. been an inspiration to me and helped me to grow in the
Jim and I began dating while we were in high faith over the last several years.
school. He is a distant relative of Forrest Burdette and I dearly love my church family at Forrest Burdette
was a member of the Milton United Methodist Church. who have supported me and truly shown me God's love in
Jim enjoyed coming to some of the youth activities the midst of my pain. I pray for God's salvation for all of
with me, and often to the Sunday School Class taught my family and that they will know His joy soon.
by Jack Saunders. Jim and I were married by Rev.
Allen Parrish on May 15, 1965, shortly before our
congregation celebrated the fiftieth anniversary of our A FRIENDLY METHODIST CHURCH
church. We served as UMYF sponsors which was very
rewarding. In December 1968, Jim moved his Lee, Evelyn and Jan Warner
membership to Forrest Burdette.
Our daughter, Cathy, was born on May 28, 1970, We moved to Hurricane and transferred our
and was baptized by Rev. Joseph Byrd. She was membership from St. Lukes Methodist Church in
confirmed by Rev. Jan Oldham in May, 1982. On July South Charleston in 1964.
14,1976, Jason joined our family. He was baptized by We began attending Sunday School when Basil
Rev. William Slates in October of that year. His O'Dell was teaching. The people in the church were
confirmation class was taught by Teresa Daily, a friendly and there were many activities to become
wonderful Christian, who has since moved away. She involved in.
and Rev. Robert Johnson performed the ceremony. Jan was baptized and became a member of Forrest
It was sad, yet exciting to witness the razing of our Burdette when Rev. Bill Deel was minister.
lovely old sanctuary, and watch the construction of the We see the church continuing with a caring and
new modern one. Now, of course, the new building loving ministry within the community.
holds precious memories just as the previous one did.
We realize, after all, that our church is people and not
the building which houses us. The sense of family
here has been made real many times over the years
...during the joyous events such as the births of our
children, and the sorrowful time when we lost Jim's
father in 1975, and during ray father's illnesses this last
year.
As our congregation continues to grow in spirit as
well as numbers, the possibility of reaching others for
Christ is unlimited, and serving God here at Forrest
Burdette is a privilege and a responsibility and a pleasure.
Conserving energy: Jan Warner, Lee Warner, Tim
Landin, Rev. Bill Deel, David Danner and mother, Iva
Danner.
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United Methodists are inheritors of a unique "Our forefathers planned and wrought well.
tradition...a people of assurance. It was the Thanks to their plans, labor and sacrifices, we
assurance that through God's grace we have worship in a beautiful sanctuary which is a Temple
been forgiven and restored to God. In the midst of for god" and also a "monument to those who loved
the changing world about us, we are challenge d to and served God ahead of us."
renew our witness as a people of the assurance. We, too, must plan wisely, labor diligently and give
Alan Waltz states:..."what encouraged and uplifted sacrificially if we are to keep the faith which
those who preceded us in faith? characterized them."
Our Forebearers found their purpose as a people These are the words taken from the Building
of God in a simple yet profound task: to proclaim Campaign of 1954 and yet they are so pertinent to
the faith, build the church, serve the world." 1992. There is a CHALLENGE within this book of
history of Methodism and Forrest Burdette Memorial
Norman E. Dewire, “Ready for Revival”, The Interpreter, United Methodist Church. We have a responsibility
March-April 1983 to see the VISION and explore the POSSIBILITIES
. and prepare for the FUTURE!!
In the tradition of Methodism, the people of Forrest
Burdette Memorial United Methodist Church have
been true to the faith, witnessing to the
unchurched, l oving the less fortunate, caring about
those within the Family and lending a "light" within
the Community.
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