Dear Editor:

Beginning with its inception in 1875, the First Presbyterian Church of Mt. Pleasant has been an integral part of the community. After Dr. Duncan McMillan opened the doors of the original church, it has never been more desperate than in the last two years. Since the departure of Pastor David S. Boge over two years ago, it has faced challenges as never before and the Presbytery of Utah was considering closing the church doors.

Gratefully, with the help of all community faiths, including LDS wards, Baptist churches, and the Ephraim Bible Church, among others, we have kept our pulpit filled with exceptional worship speakers. To all those who gave so generously of their time at the pulpit or as special music and those who kept us in prayer, we owe a deep debt of gratitude for their Christian participation and concern.

Because of those community efforts, First Presbyterian has continued to serve our county. The church has continued to be a distribution center for the Sub for Santa program. Additionally, we were able to continue the traditional community Christmas Eve service with the Bell Choir.

We celebrated our Easter musical service, reaching out to the community once again with Christian ecumenical participation and celebration. Vacation Bible School this summer was successful and we are expanding to offer a youth Bible study on Sundays, beginning in September. We also maintain a growing adult Bible study group consisting of members from may faith backgrounds and views.

During this time, some members of the First Presbyterian Church came forth with a vision of the creation of a county-wide humanitarian council. The inspiration came from individuals, but the completion came from the Hand of God.

Ultimately, the council desires to assist with senior services, community gardens, a crisis hot line, an emergency resource guide, assist with educational programs and Hispanic inclusion programs. Also on the table is an interest in establishing a homeless shelter. Our church has remained a participant with the local food bank to assist with the hardships within the county

The future is looking much brighter as the re-yoking of the First Presbyterian Church of Mt. Pleasant and Wasatch Academy moves forward. With a rich history and spiritual connection, we have worked extremely hard with Headmaster Joe Loftin in re-establishing and continuing that rich and fruitful relationship.

Despite all of the challenges placed before us during the last two years, the light seems to be shining on our small band of believers. On the horizon, it appears a new pastor will arrive soon and we look forward to having dynamic Christian leadership to guide us once again.

Again, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the people who participated in keeping our church alive. None of our successes would have been possible without the genuine love and prayers of our entire community. First Presbyterian Church of Mt. Pleasant stands as testimony to the Christian nature of our citizens. We shall be forever grateful to all those who gave of themselves.

We extend our arms in open encouragement to all who would seek an inclusive Christ-based place of worship. Church services are followed by a fellowship hour.

Mt. Pleasant First

Presbyterian Church