Twenty Five Years
Of God's Abiding Presence
1963-1988

Abiding Presence celebrated Twenty Five years of history, while a new churchwide entity, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, was born. Abiding Presence became part of the Mercer Lutheran Coalition, a group of 10 Lutheran churches working together to spread the Gospel in Mercer County. Rosemary Sinniger was elected President of the new Women of the ELCA in New Jersey. The choir presented Schubert's Mass in G and a "children's chapel", to provide a program for K-Third graders during the later worship service. Christine Silva, a member of APLC graduated from seminary and began work as an Intern Pastor in Minnesota. A decision was made to refurbish and enhance the organ. At the same time, Charter member Ann Oshman died after a life of service to the church, and a memorial service was held for her at APLC. New choir robes, white this time, were worn for the Twenty Fifth Anniversary service of Celebration and Thanksgiving. It was a time to reflect upon the past, consider the future and give thanks to God. It became obvious that both the roof and electrical system needed extensive repair. The costs would be paid through renegotiating the mortgage with AAL and an Organ Fund Drive.

A concert was held in at Trinity Methodist Church in April 1989 to encourage contributions to the Organ Fund. The choir presented the Lenten portion of Handel's Messiah. Renovation and enhancement of the Organ became a reality when the instrument was disassembled and removed. On October 1, the completed organ was dedicated and a joyful concert was given.

A new position, Coordinator of Volunteers, was created and filled by Margie Mears. A baby shower and a farewell reception were held for Bob and Pam Rognlien as they returned to the West Coast for Bob's final year of study. A decision was made to terminate our contract with the nursery school and plan to use the space for a church oriented activity in the future. Several very active families, including Ron and Nancy Osborn, moved away and membership decreased for the first time in five years.