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Although Hope Church celebrates her 41st Anniversary in 2008, her roots were set long before the founding of this country in 1776. Her roots began with the establishment of Dauphin United Presbyterian Church or "Hill Church" in 1765 on the land that is now the Dauphin Cemetery. The Hill Church was eventually abandoned and the congregation moved to what is now the Community Building for worship. In 1850, the Presbyterian Church of Dauphin (now St. Matthew's Roman Catholic Church) was built, and the Presbyterians worshipped there for a hundred years. During this time, a second Presbyterian Church, in Speeceville, was founded as a chapel by Anthony Speece. Due to its steady growth, the Speeceville Presbyterian Church received its own charter in 1950. In 1963, the Synod Strategy Committee suggested that the two churches unite. This finally occurred on May 14, 1967 with the Rev. Vance Yarnelle as the church's first pastor. A building campaign was initiated with the cornerstone being laid on October 18, 1970. Rev. Yarnelle served Hope for an additional five years and then turned the pulpit over to Rev. James E. Hicks on May 23, 1976. During the next eight years, Rev. Hicks cultivated and helped develop the close, caring family of Hope. In March 1984, Rev. Hicks accepted a call in Ohio and was replaced by Rev. Randolph L.C. Weber in July 1985. Under Rev. Weber's leadership, a massive renovation and building program was implemented. During this period the sanctuary was repaired, the new organ was purchased, a steeple was raised, and the new Educational Wing was completed as we know it today. Rev. Weber accepted a call to New York City in the fall of 1991. Dr. John L. Sproat (Jack) joined our Hope family in 1993. Under his guidance, we have been expanding our programs and refocusing our emphasis on outreach into the community. The family of Hope has deep roots in our community and has received many blessings during her existence. As the old hymn goes "O Lord, our help in ages past, our Hope for years to come..." |
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