In 1910, German immigrants to the Yorkton area began a church. A century later, that church is remembering its heritage with a weekend anniversary celebration.
Heritage Baptist Church (previously known as Central Baptist) has planned a schedule of old-fashioned events for July 9th to 11th.
"We've been working on the planning of this for about two years now," said Beth Berg, who is part of the celebration committee. The church has sent out invitations to past members, adherents and clergy in hopes of bringing together a large reunion."We would like to have between 150 and 200 people," said Berg.
The centennial celebration will treat guests to an old fashioned Sunday School picnic, an all-ages ball game and plenty of great music and food.
"Another highlight is on the Saturday morning, we're having a tour of the former Central Baptist Church. It's currently St. Mark's the Evangelist Church."
Other tours include Fone Hill and West Ebenezer cemeteries.
In the 1950's, the church switched from having all German services to English. But there have been many other changes over the years.
"We have a different location, for one thing," explained Berg. "There's always an evolving of people. I would say there's only about 15 or 20 people from the original church."
The centennial celebration is not just for people who remember "the old days."
"I think it will be good for the current people attending Heritage Baptist to see some of the roots," added Berg. Displays, pictures and memorabilia will be set up for that purpose.
It is impossible to appreciate a rich heritage without the help of those leaders who shaped the church's history. At least four former pastors will be attending the weekend celebration.
Heritage Baptist's centennial comes at another exciting turning point for the church, as they are looking to begin a significant building expansion within the year.
Registration deadline for the centennial celebration is June 1st. Registration forms are available online (www.hbcyorkton.ca/centennial) or by contacting the church: (306) 783-7912 or [email protected].
