The 125th anniversary of our church dates from the year 1851 to 1976. It is true, too, that the women of our church have an anniversary, dating from the years 1851 to 1976.

Although there are no books with definite information from 1851 1910, it is known that the first formal organization of ladies in the church was a Missionary Society. Pioneer women gave their best toward this group and funds went mainly to the support of missions, They also helped with local church expenses and improvements.

On January 15, 1910, the Ladies Aid Society of Harmony Church organized at the home of Mrs, L, R, Lenhart, who became the first president. Thirteen members were present at this meeting . Mrs. J, Kemerer was elected vice-president, Mrs, Walter Casteel, Secretary and Mrs. William Watters, treasurer. Their aim has also been to willingly help the church spiritually; financially and socially. In the minutes of meetings from 1910 to 1976 we find a repetition of notations such as:

$100,00 to be used on payment of parsonage
$50,00 allowed for papering and repairing parsonage
money allowed for carpeting in church parsonage
also numerous gifts to missions, orphanages and Indian schools.

Money was evidently raised from dues, socials, quilting, dinners other donations. On May 30, 1912, we note "At the close of the meeting a "Bonnet Sale" took place," The phrase "Sewing taken up usual" appeared quite frequently. On April 19, 1917, a Missionary Supper was given. Bazaars, ice cream socials and bake sales have been traditional.

In September 1921, all funds of the aid were turned over to the Secretary of the church to help defray expenses. In May 1923, the ladies n serving lunches at fifteen cents per lunch. Equipment for the basement and kitchen have been purchased at numerous times, including silverware, dishes, cooking utensils and stoves.

The ladies have always given consideration to the sick, shut-in and those in sorrow through death,

In April 1941, a letter was read at the meeting regarding the organization of the Women's Guild. No action was taken at that time. In 1942, the ladies decided to pay the challenge of the Women's Guild for 26 members to the Regional Women's Guild, In 1943 they began paying regularly the Regional dues to the Women's Guild, However it was not until December 1945 that we find the following remark: "It was decided to change the name of the Ladies Aid to that of Women's Guild. The aim of the Guild is: a place for every woman and every woman her place," and the purpose of the Guild is "to unite all women of the church in Christian fellowship and with divine help and guidance to develop an understanding of the work of the entire church, to deepen the spiritual life, stimulate sacrificial giving, and to promote Christian service in the home, the local church, the community, the nation and the world," With these new aims and purposes, new interest was growing and the work started branching out to the larger Kingdom service, Delegates attended conventions, returning to the local church with new ideas and inspiration which they conveyed to the membership at home.

In 1947, the ladies were very busy sewing clothing, quilts and comforters for war relief. Thru the years to the present much used clothing has been sent to World Service and to an Indian Reservation in Keams Canyon, Arizona.

In 1954, an annual retreat was sponsored by and for the church women. This has continued each year.

An annual Thank Offering has been sponsored by the church women for a number of years, with the women taking a special part in the annual Thanksgiving service.

In the year 1963, The Women's Guild was changed to Women's Fellowship.

For the past number of years The Fellowship has not actively been associated with the Regional Women's Fellowship, The past two years lesson programs have been the studying of "Women of the Bible," Our numbers are not too large at monthly meetings, averaging from five to fifteen but every woman is always ready to do her part when called upon.

Thru a memorial in 1975 a book case was purchased and a library started under the direction of our minister's wife, Mrs, Tom Beck, Our hope is thru the years this library may grow with wholesome and spiritual reading for anyone who chooses to read the books

This anniversary year a cook book was compiled of recipes, old and new from local and former church members and also friends of the church. This book is called "Harmony in the Kitchen."

As the earlier women of our church over 100 years ago it is still our aim to support missions and help with local church expenses and improvements, Also to give spiritual and physical assistance to our neighbors in times of need. As women do really have important work n the Kingdom of God, both in the church and their daily living--each one according to her abilities and talents and according to God's assignments.

The following ladies are serving as officers during this 125th anniversary year:

Mrs, L, Cueno -- President
Mrs. C, Bruns -- Vice-President
Mrs, H, Shady -- Secretary
Mrs, R, Denlinger -- Treasurer

� 2005 Larry Vern Newman, All Rights Reserved