“The 1970’s” – what a wonderful time for Connersville and for First Presbyterian. How fortunate we were! The world news included the Munich Olympics and the end of the Vietnam War. ESPN debuted. The Godfather, Star Wars and Jaws were popular movies. Led Zeppelin and the Eagles were a couple of favorite music groups.
US news reported Watergate. Nixon resigned, and Gerald Ford became president. Roe vs Wade was decided.
Indiana news was full of Bobby Knight and IU basketball. The news also talked of Elvis Presley’s last concert.
In the 1970’s Connersville produced the majority of dishwashers in the nation, and we had the highest employment rate of any previous or past time for Fayette County. The Technical Career Center was dedicated in 1969, but opened in 1970. Connersville won a state basketball championship in 1972. And in 1978 we had a little snow…no, no, no,…it was a blizzard to remember.
The 1970’s were filled with blessings for this church. So many familiar names filled the session minutes for this era. These special people paved the way for us. Reverand Duane Aelick was the minister that guided this church. Duane and his wife, Delores served as leaders for this congregation. During this decade the church had more than 200 communicants added to the rolls and more than 50 babies were listed.
There were many special happenings in the 70’s. Robert Swope became the choir director. A beautiful stained-glass window was installed. There was a flood that many today still remember. Hanging of the Greens was established as an annual part of our Christmas activities. In 1974 the church had a big 150-year celebration.
It was a wonderful time filled with Christian Education for children and adults, missionary efforts and multiple fellowship activities for adults, children and families. Special events included Easter Egg hunts, Halloween parties, bible school, picnics and church dinners. The church was a social gathering place. The members worked diligently to keep these activities going. Leadership was strong. Many, many members stepped up to serve and spent untold hours working for First Presbyterian Church in Connersville.
Dear God We thank you for the 1970’s. It was a very special time for our church. We thank you for the leaders you gave us. We thank you for all of the members. We thank you for the people that were filled with dreams for this church and all of the hard-working people that made those dreams become reality. Our hearts are filled with joy because we know you are here with us now, and you will guide us in future endeavors. Thank you dear God! In Jesus name we pray. Amen.