MORGANTOWN — In 140 years, a lot can happen. The tight-knit community of Pentress knows this all too well.
The Olive Methodist Episcopal Church is celebrating its 140th birthday. The traditional church has seen decades of life pass through, with families sharing sweet memories and celebrations among each other through the years. The church, also known as Olive UMC, prides itself through its strong foundation and continuance of membership.
“One word that comes to mind: Heritage,” Connie Bragg proudly said, describing what has shaped the Olive Methodist Episcopal Church into what it is today. Bragg is a loyal and active member of the church community.
From walking miles to horse and buggies, much has changed since the beginning. However, some things change with just a twist. Sunday school teachers who have kept the position for 15 to 20 years have turned to team teaching. Familiar hymns are sung loudly, but contemporary Christian songs are mixed in between. The one thing that has not changed, shared by Bragg, are the values and family tradition.
“We like to think our reverence for worship and continuing work to bring in the Kingdom of God are the same,” Bragg said. “We still have members in our congregation that are related to the first trustees.”
Going back to the 19th century, Olive UMC was dedicated Dec. 22, 1878, on land gifted by Nicholas Johnson. Members of the community came together to cut timber, fire the kiln, lay the brick, build the structure and put together the interior. Structural changes have been completed to the structure, including additions of balconies and vestibules, an annex, reliable glass, etc.
In the past 140 years, the church has been struck by lightening twice, leading to fire damages and renovations. Several interior renovations have updated the church’s environment by improving the quality and making members feel more at home.
The congregation has seen 45 ministers serve, with the current Pastor John making 46. Church organizations have graced the community encouraging further involvement and support, including Ladies Aide Society, Women’s Society of Christian Service, Epworth League and United Methodist Women.
The youth of Olive UMC are sincerely valued through importance placed on Sunday school, Vacation Bible School, summer camps, in addition to involvement in the 30-Hour Famine and the youth group, Young Life.
The church’s history uncovers a consistent willpower to serve and participate in missions, specifically through love offerings and service. An example of this tradition stands with the 17-year stretch of shoebox packing for children throughout the holiday season. With most attributions from the church, precedent is set and honored.
“We find strength in past memories knowing that our forefathers prioritized the church in their lives,” Bragg said. “Their examples have given generations that have followed courage to be faithful to our Lord.”
To celebrate the monumental day, a future Sunday school and worship service will be planned accordingly, with a meal, music program to follow. Scrapbooks will be on display, in addition to T-shirts to honor the merriment. For more information, email Bragg at braggc@westco.net.
