Stained glass image of Saint Stephen the Martyr.
The following is excerpted from The History of the Parish of Saint Stephen's Church in Pittsfield, New Hampshire. This history was written in 4 parts: 1863-1963 - The Rev. Gary J. Lemmon; 1963-1975 - Miss Agnes I. Ring; 1976-1988 - Mrs. Marion J. Knox; 1988-1993 - Mrs. Marion Knox; 1994-2003 - Mrs. Marion Knox The Period of 1863 Through 1963Prior to the Civil War there were only a few families in Pittsfield who professed the Episcopal faith. Prominent among them was the family of Daniel Sanderson, who moved to this community in 1835. Their son James Augustus, who was born in Lowell, Massachusetts on May 20, 1834, attended the Pittsfield public school and finally Dartmouth College where he was graduated with the class of 1859. He then attended Andover Theological Seminary and a year later entered Berkeley Divinity School in Middleton, Connecticut and became associated with the Diocese of Connecticut. In 1862 after his ordination Rev. Mr. Sanderson returned to Pittsfield to visit relatives and friends. While in the community, he was invited by several Episcopal gentlemen to hold a Prayer Book service for their benefit and to preach. He consent, and a numerous congregation assembled on Sunday, October 12, 1862 in the Congregational Meeting House on Main Street for the first Episcopal service in Pittsfield. The minds of the people were solemnly impressed, and they said, "We would hear thee again of this matter." Arrangements were accordingly made and an attentive congregation gathered from time to time in Washington Hall, a public room of the old Washington House for services. The Masonic Hall on Main Street was rented for regular services from December 27, 1862 until the present building was occupied. The work was aided by various neighboring clergymen, notably the Rev. Isaac George Hubbard, D.D., Rector of Grace Church, Manchester and the Rev. James Henry Eames, D.D., Rector of Saint Paul's Church in Concord. This was to be the first of 21 churches which Dr. Eames had a hand in founding. "We the undersigned citizens of Pittsfield and vicinity, in the State of New Hampshire, being desirous of enjoying and maintaining the worship and ordinances of the Canons, regulations, and wages of the Protestant Episcopal Church as established by the General Convention of said Church in these United States, and by the Convention of said Church in the said State of New Hampshire, do hereby associate and bind ourselves together, and become a body politic, and corporate according to the laws of the State of New Hampshire aforesaid, under the name and style of the Parish of St. Stephens Church in said Pittsfield. Dated this twenty fifth day of March, A.D. One thousand eight hundred and sixty three. Names Names Benjamin Emerson S. Smith F. B. Berry Scott French R. P. J. Tenney E. O. Sanderson Chas S. P. Sanderson D. P. Sanderson W. A. Mack David Sanderson M. V. B. Edgerly
Rev. James A. Sanderson of the Diocese of Connecticut, minister officiating Wardens Benjamin Emerson Scott French On March 30, 1863 the Parish of St. Stephen's Church in Pittsfield was organized. Eleven persons were present. The Bishop appointed Rev. Mr. Sanderson as Minister-in-charge.
"Pittsfield, N. H. March 30, 1863
The meeting was call to order by Scott French
The first duty of the new Parish was to plan for a house of worship. A piece of land on Main Street was had from Mr. and Mrs. James Drake for $500 to be used as a lot for the church. Bishop Chase made his first visitation to St. Stephen's on Sunday, July 19, 1863 preaching twice in the Masonic Hall, Devine Service being read by the Rev. James A. Sanderson....In good time, on Monday, came the Rev. Dr. Eames and a pleasant company of ladies and gentlemen from Concord. At 1:00 o'clock the procession moved from the hall to the foundation of the new church, and with due religious ceremonies and prayers laid the corner stone, the address being given by Rev. Dr. Eames. The frame country Gothic style building seating about 150 persons was soon completed. The interior was sheathed with oiled chestnut. The organ, made by Mssrs. E. & G. G. Hook of Boston, was presented by Daniel I. Tenney of New York. George M. March, a Portsmouth man, gave the Communion service and the Bible. Mrs. William Wyman, then of Baltimore, provided the lectern and pulpit. The sanctuary and rose stained glass windows by Owen Doremus of New Jersey were given by Mrs. James H.. Eames of Concord. A caen stone font was also secured. The Bishop's chair was given in memory of Mr. Scott French, the first Junior Warden, who died before the completion of the building. The Rev. Mr. Sanderson went back to Connecticut in the Spring of 1864. He died at Plymouth, Massachusetts, Nov. 9, 1890. The altar cross and vases were given in his memory. Bishop Chase, in his convention address of 1864, spoke of St. Stephen's as one of four important vacancies. "It is desirable,", he said, "that at an early date these should be supplied with able ministers of the New Testament: may the good Lord send us such men." ...On June 18 the Bishop sanctioned the Vestry's election of the Rev. Daniel F. Smith as Rector...born in Saco, Maine on April 25, 1836 and graduated from Bowdoin College in 1857 after which he went to Concord, New Hampshire to teach at St. Paul's School until the fall of 1859.....Attended the General Theological Seminary in New York....entered upon parish duties in Calais, Maine from whence he came to Pittsfield for a salary of $700 paid partly by pew rents and subscriptions and partly from missionary sources.
The new Rector and his wife, Eliza Stone Thompson, fitted well into the new Parish... "Somewhat sleepy, the town was, but very pleasant with a hearty hospitality and a kindly charity it does the heart good to remember after all these years. Going farther, many men have found worse. St. Stephen's was as quiet as the village. The people came to church to say their prayers and if they slept in preaching time, the parson had to allow that the sermon was dull, and bless their slumbers......" On the first Sunday of November in 1867 the Rev. Thomas G. Valpey, who was a master at St. Paul's Church in Concord, assumed temporary charge of St. Stephen's, holding services, weather permitting, until July, 1868 when the church was closed. [There followed a period from 1868 to 1876, when the church was only opened intermittently] The vacancy was filled at last by Rev. James Hardin George, who came to take charge of St. Stephen's as a Deacon on July 1, 1876. On April 25, 1878 Bishop Niles ordained the Rev. James George a Priest of the Church. This was the first ordination service held within the walls of St. Stephen's. After five years Rev. James George...was replaced by in October, 1881 by the Rev. Norman H. Burnham, who remained only until July, 1882, after which there were no regular services at St. Stephen's until 1887. Regular services were resumed with the appointment of the Rev. William Lloyd Himes as General Missionary. He was assisted by the Rev. Daniel Rollins, who had been ordained Deacon on June 5, 1887 on completion of his work at the Episcopal Theological School in Cambridge, Massachusetts. On June 10, 1888 he was ordained Priest at St. Stephen's by Bishop Niles. Rev. Mr. Rollins did not remain long at St. Stephen's. He resigned on October 1, 1888 and later returned to the practice of law for which he was originally educated. He died January 24, 1900. Rev. Mr. Rollins was succeeded by the Rev. George G. Jones of the Diocese of Massachusetts, who stayed for only six months, and once again St. Stephen's was without a clergyman. Until 1893 there were only occasional Sunday services... At the Convention of 1893 Bishop Niles announced: "The Rev. Richard W. Dow, Deacon, has bravely gone to Pittsfield, that we may once more in our pretty little St. Stephen's Church have the regular ministrations of the Church. I will not attempt to tell you how the weight has been upon my heart all these years of no due care of our little flock in that beautiful town." Rev. Mr. Dow's ordination to the Priesthood on Friday, May 11, 1894 was introduced by a missionary meeting...Under Rev. Mr. Dow's rectorship the church, which had been intolerably cold in the winter, was raised and a new heating apparatus put in. But on October 7, 1894, Rev. Mr. Dow announced his resignation because of poor health... In 1895 the Rev. Frederick Joseph Kinsmen, the a Deacon, was in charge of St. Stephen's. Later he joined the faculty of St. Paul's School, then entered on the rectorship of St. Martin's, New Bedford, Massachusetts. In 1900 he was elected to the chair of ecclesiastical history in the Berkeley Divinity School, and in 1908 he was elected Bishop of Delaware. If Bishops have been given reason not to have fond memories of Pittsfield, such would be the case with Bishop Niles on May 25, 1896 during his visitation. He had taken his seat in the wagon for the railway station when the horse suddenly started, the fastenings on the seat broke, and the Bishop was thrown out backwards, falling on his head in an accident that those standing by believed would be fatal. But, perhaps because the Bishop had no neck to speak of, he was spared, although he was obliged to preach his sermons from a chair for several months. From 1896 until 1906 the Rev. Howard Fremont Hill, Ph.D., D.D., who came from Amesbury, Massachusetts to take up residence in Concord, was Priest-in-charge. Dr. Hill died in 1923. In 1907 St. Stephen's was again without a clergyman...Three times in 1908 it had seemed one could be secured and three times disappointment followed. The Rev. Herbert A. Remick, a retired Priest from the Diocese of Rhode Island, settled in Pittsfield in 1911 and began to hold regular Sunday services. Bishop Parker wished to get the Parish in a proper business-like condition and legal trim. Because there had been no Parish meeting for a considerable time, he requested in 1911 that such a meeting be called in order to elect new officers, to make an account of finances, and to elect Rev. Mr. Remick as Rector. The parish organization was a bit odd, with membership quite unrelated to the doctrines of the Church. Although one might be a communicant, a person became a member of the Parish by a vote of the Wardens and Vestry and by signing the by-laws. Women could not be members. In order for there to be a Parish meeting there needed to be a call signed by a requisite number of members, a warrant issued by a justice of the peace, and publication of the notice with its posting on the church door, all which took well over a month. The Bishop was informed that officers held their position until others were chosen and there was no interest in holding a Parish meeting. Furthermore, there were only six legal members of the Parish, one of whom lived in Washington. There was no Parish meeting until 1913. Meanwhile Rev. Mr. Remick continued to hold services, although in the Fall of 1912 he informed the Bishop of what he called a vexatious thorn--he had not been paid for almost a year. In 1912 the lay officers closed the church in the winter except for one Sunday a month, and in 1915 they closed it completely during the winter. Rev. Mr. Remick had been given no status by the Parish....with the church closed, he held services and instruction classes in the Jenness Pond Schoolhouse. The Fall of 1917 the Rev. Robert H. Johnson, a Deacon, began to serve at St. Stephen's as well as at Grace Church, East Concord...He organized a Sunday school and Women's Guild... The Parish gave inadequate financial support for Rev. Mr. Johnson although funds were available. Mrs. Helen Rollins, a visitor at the church gave the amount which St. Stephen's agreed to pay, and Mr. Edward P. Sanderson of Waltham, Massachusetts, a native of Pittsfield and a summer resident in the community, provided additional support through the Bishop, although he wrote Bishop Parker that he was not optimistic about Rev. Mr. Johnson's chances of success because of the lack of interest within the Parish, evidence by the fact that no one was pledging toward its support and the interest from the endowment was being re-invested rather than used for the maintenance of services. The Vestry of St. Stephen's even refused to meet with the Bishop to discuss arrangements for the continuation of Rev. Mr. Johnson's services. He left St. Stephen's on July 1, 1918 to return to the Diocese of Connecticut. It was in Nathaniel Drake that Rev. Mr. Remick found his support. Through him the faithful Priest was admitted to membership in the Parish. Mr. Drake then requested that he make arrangements as he saw fit for the reorganization of the Parish. The by-laws were changed so that any baptized person, including women, who contributed to the support of St. Stephen's could be members.... By 1924 Rev. Mr. Remick was advanced in years and no longer active. The Parish therefore voted a sum of $500 to be expended by the Bishop, who would provide additional funds, for a young minister who would live in the village. In turn three such ministers came to Pittsfield, but in each case their initial reaction was such they promptly went elsewhere. At the Parish meeting of 1925 it was voted to turn over the principal of the Church's endowment to the amount of $12,000 to the Trustees of the Diocese for investment purposes on behalf of St. Stephen's, much to the relief of the Bishop. Rev. Mr. Remick, who was never elected Rector, at least had the satisfaction in 1925 of being elected Senior Warden... John Thomas Dallas became Bishop in 1926. Rev. Mr. Remick continued with services in Pittsfield, although there were many occasions when only one person would be in the congregation. In 1927 he locked the doors of the church, and once more St. Stephen's was silent. In 1930 Mr. And Mrs. Louis Fischer and their four children moved to Pittsfield from Lynn, Massachusetts. Mrs. Fischer and the children were Episcopalians, but there were no signs of life at the Episcopal church by the park. When Mrs. Fischer discovered that an Episcopal Priest (Rev. Mr. Remick) lived in the community, she persuaded him to open the little church and hold services. When other Episcopalians in the town learned that the doors of St. Stephen's were again open, they gradually returned to receive the Word and Sacrament through Rev. Mr. Remick until the Priest who came to Pittsfield in 1911 to retire passed to his heavenly reward. In March 29, 1913 the Rev. Gustave Samuel Girardet became the Rector of St. Stephen's....During his time in Pittsfield he was not only Rector, but also the Wardens, Clerk, Treasurer, and Vestry, being assisted by his able wife, Ethel. A Church school, choir, Women's Guild, and the Herbert A. Remick chapter of the Daughters of the King were soon organized. Evelyn Sanderson gave the Good Samaritan window and $1,800 to the St. Stephen's Endowment Fund in memory of her husband. Edward P. Sanderson had previously given the St. Elizabeth window in memory of his mother, Elizabeth Norris Sanderson, and the Saint Stephen window in memory of his father, Daniel Parkman Sanderson. The. Rev. Vincent Fischer, whose mother had arranged the opening of the church in 1930, was ordained Deacon in 1943 and Priest in 1944, both services being held at St. Stephen's. Under Fr. Girardet that harmony and growth which had characterized St. Stephen's during its early years returned. After a long and fruitful ministry his health gave way and the well-loved Priest died December 9, 1944. Mr. Samuel S. Richmond of Concord then became Lay Vicar...The Rev. James Thornton Lodge, a retired Priest from the Diocese of New Jersey who lived in the area provided the priestly services until his death on July 11, 1950....Charles Francis Hall became the Bishop Coadjutor on January 15, 1948 and soon became the Diocesan. In 1952 Dr. Osmond R. Strong of Concord became Lay Vicar, and the Rev. Otho Hoofnagel of St. Paul's School provided the priestly services until May of 1955 when the Rev. Austin Reed assumed that responsibility, being followed in September of 1956 by the Rev. Courtney L. Carpenter of St. Paul's School. The Rev. Gary J. Lemmon, a Methodist minister...met the Rev. Donald Lyons, a Canon of St. Paul's Cathedral in Boston...mentioned that he was considering becoming an Episcopalian...upon his return from London, the contact was made....Mr. Lemmon came to take charge of St. Stephen's on October 1, 1959, being ordained Deacon on November 26, 1960 and Priest on May 31, 1961. The Period of 1963 Through 1975Rev. Lemmon remained at St. Stephen's until his resignation in 1966....to become Rector of the Church of the Incarnation in Lynn, Massachusetts. Thereafter for a short time services at St. Stephen's were carried on by visiting clergymen and lay readers. Captain Henry Lee Howard from the Church Army began his leadership on September 11, 1966. In 1967, a residence at 16 Manchester Street was bought for a Rectory, where the Howards lived until he left in 1969, to serve a Parish in Montana. The Vestry voted November 5, 1969, to sell the Rectory. It was so done and deeded to Mr. And Mrs. Leonard T. Burritt. The selling price was $16,000, netting St. Stephen's Church $5,225.43 profit. The Rev. Allan Huff Monroe began his duties as Rector on a part-time basis December 6, 1969, while working for advanced degrees in Sacred Theology at Andover-Newton Theology School. He was ordained in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on December 14, 1969. Anne Sellecke, a generous and dedicated worker and member of the Church, died November 1, 1969, leaving St. Stephen's a yearly income from a $10,000 trust fund. In her memory, a cousin, Miss Alice Dillingham, a New York City attorney, gave a stained glass window, depicting St. Anne. This was dedicated October, 1970. On October 31, 1971, the Rev. Donald B. Corringham, Rector of Trinity Church, Tilton, assumed the herculean task of serving both parishes. With rising costs, this seemed a wise venture, enabling both parishes to remain solvent and have the privileges of regular worship and activities. To date it has been a very happy solution and Father Corringham has endeared himself within the community, as well as to the church members. During the summer of 1975 discussions were held to consider much-needed repairs to the Undercroft...in July, 1975, a special meeting of the Parish was called, and it was unanimously voted by those in attendance to accept the $41,000 bid ... to demolish an completely rebuild the Undercroft and to build an addition for the rebuilt furnace. Two members of St. Stephen's Church who have given unstintingly and most generously of their time, money, and efforts in attending to Church affairs are Ivan Rutherford, who joined in 1963 and has served on the Vestry as Treasurer, and Royce Kelley, who joined in 1960 and has served continuously in the Vestry ever since and frequently as a Lay Reader. During the construction, Mr. Kelley...discovered the cornerstone and investigating discovered the tin box containing papers deposited in 1863. The contents of the box in the cornerstone, originally laid July 20, 1863, opened October 22, 1875 were:
The Pittsfield Historical Society graciously extended an invitation for us to use their facilities for our weekly worship services, while repairs were being made to our church, from August 3, 1974, through October 19, 1975. We were most appreciative of their hospitality.
The Women's Guild of the Church paid $1,300 for a new red and black carpet, this to include cost of installation. To the utter amazement of everyone, it was learned that the contractor had painted the church at his own expense. Surely this was a most generous and unheard of gesture on any contractor's part. The Period of 1976 Through 1988Royce Kelley made a stainless steel box to be placed in the cornerstone when it was relaid. On June 27, 1976, with an appropriate service, the new cornerstone was reset and dedicated. The following items were placed within the cornerstone box:
At the Annual Meeting, January 17, 1976 a gift of $3,000 was received from Mrs. Laura Berry Offutt in memory of Miss Abbie J. Sanborn, a former choir mistress, and of Miss Mary Kaime, her niece, who was a former organist of this church.
Voted at the 1977 Annual Meeting was a motion to purchase a vigil light for the Chancel in memory of Dr. Osmond Strong who for 5 years was a beloved lay reader of St. Stephen's Church. In 1982 Father Corringham's 35th anniversary as an Episcopal Priest was observed. The Parish held a surprise celebration in his honor, and invited as their guests the members of Trinity Church, Tilton, which is Father Corringham's other parish. After 9 years of supervising and teaching Sunday School, Joseph and Marion Knox announced they wished to resign their positions as of the end of June 1984. Their superb work will be carried on by Nina Stevens and Janice Stimmell, with the help of others. By the middle of 1985 the Treasurer, Ivan Rutherford, announced that the Church was operating without a deficit, for the first time since 1975. The mortgage on the Undercroft was decreasing rapidly and the Parishioners were relieved that their efforts and prayers had been answered. The organ purchased in 1978 was in need of much repair and the Parish decided at the January 21, 1986 Annual Meeting to find a replacement....financed by individual contributions. On April 13, 1986 the members of the Parish held a surprise reception in the Undercroft for Miss Agnes Ring who served the Church as Clerk./Secretary for the past 19 years. In January of 1987 the Parish began the task of preparing for the retirement on December 31, 1987 of Father Corringham. A committee was established, headed by Rector's Warden, Joseph Knox and meetings were held with Bishop Theuner and his staff. At the Annual Meeting on January 25, 1987 the members of the Parish agreed to combine the Ladies' Guild and the Men's Club, and form a Parish Guild... In May of 1987, following initial discussions with the Bishop and staff, a discussion was held regarding the possible yoking of St. Stephen's and St. Michael's of Suncook. Both parishes at the present time are seeking permanent leadership, and St. Michael's is in the process of selling their land and building. St. Stephen's invited the members of St. Michael's to worship with them until such time as they have established another place of worship, and as of August 7th, 1988 the two parishes joined in worship with Father Harold Believeau conducting the service. On December 3rd, 1987 only a few members unable to attend a Parish Christmas Party at Lake Shore Farm in Northwood. The surprise part of this occasion was a retirement party for Father Donald Corringham. Members of the Corringham family were special guests that evening, as were Bishop and Sue Theuner. Father Corringham and his wife, Nellie, were given a living Blue Spruce tree, decorated with 16 extraordinary ornaments, which represented the 16 years he was St. Stephen's faithful leader....the Sunday School children presented him with a photograph album which contained pictures of all the members of the Sunday School and Staff. Also he received hand-drawn pictures which depicted the children's personal thought of Father Corringham. There were over 100 people present at this joyous occasion. The Period of 1988 Through 1993In January of 1988, Father Harold Believeau, retired, was approached by the Bishop and asked to fill in until a permanent Rector was found The climax of the 125th Anniversary Celebration will come on October 9th when Bishop Theuner and as many past members of the St. Stephen's clergy that are available, and Father Believeau conduct the special anniversary service and communion at five in the afternoon. This service and the reception to follow will be attended by the members of St. Stephen's, St. Michael's and invited guests from other Pittsfield churches, and State and Town government officials. It is anticipated that the service will be a very moving experience for all who attend, and the accounting of the anniversary celebration will be placed as an addendum in this history book. St. Stephen's Church stands as a memorial to those named and unnamed, but know to God, who have given their resources, their time, their talent, and their dedication in order that we, at the 125th Anniversary Celebration, as was done at the 100th Celebration of the Parish of St. Stephen's, may raise our voices to sing:
"Our Father, by whose servants Our house was built of old, Whose hand hath crowned her children With blessing manifold, For thine unfailing mercies Far-strewn along our way, With all who passed before us, We praise thy Name today. The changeful years unresting Their silent course have sped, New comrades ever bringing In comrades' steps to tread; And some are long forgotten, Long spent their hopes and fears; Safe rest they in thy keeping, Who changest not with years. They reap not where they labored; We reap what they have sown; Our harvest may be garnered By ages yet unknown. The days of old have dowered us With gifts beyond our praise; Our Father, make us faithful To serve the coming days. Before us and beside us, Still holden in thine hand A cloud unseen of witness, Our elder comrades stand: One family unbroken, We join, with one acclaim, One heart, one voice uplifting To glorify thy Name." Hymnal - 1940 #505 Hymnal - 1982 #289 The Period of 1988 Through 1993Our 125th Anniversary Day, October 9th of 1988, was a day of remembering not only those who have gone before us, but those who struggled to keep St. Stephen's open, and also be thankful for those who are now part of the ever-growing congregation of enthusiastic parishioners. The Church was filled to capacity with extra chairs placed wherever possible. The weather was cool and seasonal but it did not take long for the Church to become warm as the congregation gathered. Several members wore period costumes. There were many guests present from local churches and organizations. They were ushered to their seats by Jennie Owen and Marion Knox, both of whom, dressed in period costumes, also assisted with the offertory. Following a very impressive and moving service and sermon by Bishop Theuner, the congregation retired to the undercroft and the tent placed outside the undercroft to enjoy a delicious buffet, champagne punch, cake, and coffee. The walkway was lighted by luminaries which added a special look to the Church and provided sufficient light as the guests departed. Everyone expressed the opinion that the anniversary celebration was perfect and one to be remembered for many years. Following the celebration the Church continued to prosper under the leadership of several interim rectors as the Parish continued searching for a permanent replacement for Father Donald Corringham. It is indeed noteworthy to say that the Vestry voted in September of 1988 to completely pay off the mortgage on the Church. Also, the selling of ads for the Church history, which was updated for the 125th anniversary, provided $2075.00, which paid the cost of printing the history and almost all of the other celebration expenses. The final event of 1988 was the December 2nd Annual Christmas Party at Lake Shore Farm, and the celebration at that party of Ellen Grau’s 90th birthday. In 1989 the Parish continued their search for a rector, and held meetings with the Bishop, his staff, members of St. Michael’s and St. Stephen’s Vestries. The process was long and became very frustrating. However, St. Stephen’s was never without an interim priest. During this process the Treasurer found a Quitclaim Deed in his possession that indicates the rector, vestry and wardens of St. Stephen’s Church are its owners, not the Diocese of New Hampshire. Our faithful organist, Ellen Grau, underwent surgery on her hips and took a leave of absence. Helen LaFond, a member of St. Michael’s assisted by filling in for Ellen while we searched for a permanent replacement. George Owen, our Eucharistic Minister, underwent disc surgery and proceeded to a full recovery. Joe Knox, George Hetu and George Stevens investigated enlarging the Altar area to make it safer for those receiving the sacraments. George Stevens designed and beautifully constructed, in memory of his brother Michael, a new railing and kneeler area, which was also dedicated in memory of Beatrice C. Blake and Alice G. Knox. The Church participated in the Bishop’s Advance Fund for the 1990s, and was successful in raising $3,515 for the Fund over a three year period. The St. Stephen’s Guild assisted by pledging 15% of the net proceeds of their sales and functions to this Fund. Maintenance of the Church building continued, with the re-roofing of the building in 1989 at a cost of $2480. The windows were caulked, and the cross was painted also. In January of 1990 it was necessary to replace the furnace at a cost of $3000. The Church was also rewired, with new chandeliers and wall sconce lights installed, which were given in memory of Alveda “Bede” Houle. In order to attract new people, a sign was erected on Route 28 at the Foss property. Maintenance of the Church building continued, with the re-roofing of the building in 1989 at a cost of $2480. The windows were caulked, and the cross was painted also. In January of 1990 it was necessary to replace the furnace at a cost of $3000. The Church was also rewired, with new chandeliers and wall sconce lights installed, which were given in memory of Alveda “Bede” Houle. In order to attract new people, a sign was erected on Route 28 at the Foss property. Father Carl Schaller was invited to become our part-time interim priest. He accepted and presided over the Annual Parish Meeting on February 18, 1990. Father Schaller provided the Parish with a continuity of purpose as the search continued for a permanent priest. In May of 1990 the 90th birthday of Gladys Millett was observed. During the Spring, the Meal Site, which had occupied the Undercroft on a daily basis for many years, providing a noontime meal for senior citizens of Pittsfield and surrounding towns, did not renew their contract with the Church and moved to the newly dedicated Community Center. The Center is housed in the old Pittsfield Town Hall. This move required adjustments for not only the senior citizens, but also for the Church since the income derived from this contract had provided funding for the running of the Church. In November of 1990 Elaine Dame of Pittsfield became our organist, and the following March she accepted the position as our permanent organist. George Stevens continued to renovate our Altar area, and replaced the shelf behind the Altar, matching the wood with that of the new railing and kneeler. On Apri1 7th 1991, the new lighting, in memory of Alveda “Bede” Houle and the Altar shelf were dedicated. A survey of the parishioners was conducted. As a result, Father Schallar was asked to become our permanent priest. Unfortunately he declined, but agreed to stay on until August of 1991. Following his departure, Father Jeremy Knowles served as supply priest for the month of September. Father Knowles was invited to become our permanent priest, but declined because of health reasons. The search committee continued their work and two candidates visited us in late 1991 and January of 1992. After serving for 17 years as a member of the Vestry, the last five as Senior Warden, Joseph Knox resigned from this position and Patrick Morris was selected to replace him in 1992. As the Church struggled with its search and with the changes in leadership, it continued to grow. The Sunday School flourished and a Youth Group was created. The Youth Group assisted with the Church fairs and suppers and was able to establish a treasury of its own for any special events, which they intended to plan. In 1992 the Stations of the Cross, given by Jackie Keegan in memory of her husband James, were dedicated at a special service held before the regular Good Friday service. Father Edward Mills was the supply priest at that time, and he was able to remain with us through the month of April. In May of 1992, Father John Allen agreed to serve as supply priest for six weeks. In June the Vestry asked him to consider staying on after Labor Day. In July, the Search Committee recommended Father Allen to the Vestry as our permanent part-time priest. On August 5, 1992 the Vestry voted unanimously to call John Allen as Parish Rector. In November the Vestry produced an arrangement that met with the approval of the Diocese, Father John Allen, and the Vestry. Effective December 1, 1992, Father John Allen became St. Stephen’s permanent part-time priest. Other events occurred in 1992, which deserve to be mentioned. The Bus Ministry of Pittsfield, which served the area Church members for many years, was suspended in May due to lack of funding, decrease in riders, and the deplorable condition of the bus. This ministry served our members well. For several years the bus was used for Sunday School picnic trips and transportation to the annual Christmas Party held at Lake Shore Farm in Northwood. Bids were accepted for the painting of the Church and the bid of Richard Olney of Northwood was approved in the amount of $2240. The Church was painted in September. At that time it was discovered that the rose window frame was in dire need of repair. This work was also accomplished with the use of memorial funds. At the Annual Meeting in 1993, George Stevens replaced Pat Morris as the Rector’s Warden. 1993, the year of St. Stephen’s 130th anniversary, revealed a Parish that was continuing to grow and prosper under the leadership of Father John Allen. The establishing of a choir was a wonderful accomplishment that added more spiritual meaning for us all. The Sunday School increased tremendously with a total enrollment of 30 children, and an average attendance of 23. The Youth Group ventured to New York City for a weekend in July and stayed at St. John the Divine Cathedral, enjoying a tour of the facility and many other sites. Nina Stevens continued to provide leadership for the Sunday School and Youth Group with the able assistance of Ursula Allen, Carolyn Knox, Sarah Corning, Peg Beauchemin and Joe Knox. The average attendance at the Church service also increased, and several new families joined the congregation. In September 1993, after 22 years as Eucharistic Minister, George Owen announced his retirement. As an expression of their appreciation for his service and also that of his wife Jennie, the Guild held a coffee hour following the regular service and presented George and Jennie with remembrance gifts, including the key to the reserved sacraments. In December 1993 George Hetu became the permanent Eucharistic Minister replacement for George Owen. As we observe the 130th anniversary of our Parish, may we not only remember our accomplishments over the past five years, but also remember and thank the many interim and supply priests. Their spiritual guidance and assistance provided us with the ability needed to persevere and enabled us to bring the Parish to where it is today:
Rectors serving St. Stephen’s 1988 - 1993:
Rev. Harold Beliveau January, 1988 to January 1990
Rev. Carl Schaller January 1990 to August 1991
Rev. Jeremy Knowles September 1991 to January 1992
Rev. Edward Mills February 1992 to April 1992
Rev. John Allen May 1992 to November 30, 1992
Rev. John Allen, Rector December 1, 1992 to present
Supply Priests:
Rev. Edmond Sherrill Rev. William Sickle
Rev. Randall Giddings Rev. Donald Corringham
Rev. A. M. Jergens Rev. Gordon Johnson
May we all be thankful for our progress, and may we strive to continue to grow as a family within the Church and within the communities we serve.
Marion J. Knox, 1993
The Periond of 1994 Through 2003In 1994, the Youth Group under the direction of Nina Stevens prepared and served a delicious brunch to 44 adults and 21 children who attended the January Annual Meeting. Senior Warden George Stevens announced that, because of the new Diocesan pay scale, and insufficient response to the annual fund drive, Father Allen’s hours must be reduced from 17 1/2 to 13. George appealed to those present to help make the Church grow; more families were needed to make St. Stephen’s their Church home. Despite tight budget prospects in 1994, it was reported that in 1993 the Vestry, with the help of the Guild, met their goals of a new photocopier, kitchen improvements, blueprints for an access ramp, and discussions relative to insulating the building. It was also reported that George Hetu was appointed as Eucharistic Minister I by Bishop Theuner in November 1993, and that Father Allen accompanied the Youth Group when they traveled to the Nightwatch Program at St. John the Divine in New York City. On March 5th while Father Allen was preparing for the Ash Wednesday evening service, there was a puff of smoke, and the inside of the Church was covered with soot. The furnace had malfunctioned. It was not possible to hold the entire service that evening because of the effects of the soot. Notice went out to the parishioners, and many arrived to assist with the cleanup process. Professional cleaners were involved, paid by the Church’s insurance, and within a few days everything was sparkling clean, and the furnace was functioning properly. The cost of the cleanup totaled $7100. In March, Father Allen’s hours were again increased to 17 as additional funds were made available for his salary. The Vestry recommended that Joseph W. Boudreau, who served St. Michael’s as a Eucharistic Minister, be appointed by Bishop Theuner as St. Stephen’s Eucharistic Minister II. In thanksgiving of their 50 years of marriage, Connie and Joe Boudreau presented the Church with a generous gift to be used for the building fund. They also donated cash they received from their anniversary celebration. The Vestry decided to form a building committee and to charge the committee with soliciting building project ideas from all parishioners. In September a building committee was formed and was required to determine the needs and requirements of the Church. The members, Daniel Welch, Roland Beauchemin, Senior Warden George Stevens, Pat Welch, Jill Stevens and Marion Knox, presented the congregation with four priorities:
The first two items were to be considered first. Regarding the expansion of the Church, questions were asked: What would we reap from this? Perhaps an office, robing room and storage area. What expansion would best benefit the congregation? Would this expansion provide more space for the congregation? Perhaps, our storage problem can be addressed by better management of our storage space, with off-site storage for items used only a short time each year. This would be a long-range project, and one that should be planned and budgeted for in the future. It was mentioned that there were very few services that have standing room included. And, before adding onto the Church, perhaps two services per Sunday should be considered. Members of the building committee noticed the beam rafter at the back of the Church appeared to be spreading. Douglas V. Briggs, President of American Calan, Inc. of Northwood donated the material and labor to successfully accomplish the needed repair work. The Vestry invited members of the Northwood Episcopal Mission to attend St. Stephen’s and to attend a coffee hour after the service. Rosamond S. Becker thanked St. Stephen’s for the invitation and stated the offer would be held in abeyance for a short time as they explored several options. The Vestry continued to explore ways to bring more Episcopalians, living in surrounding towns to St. Stephen’s. In December, Builders Insulating Company was selected to insulate the walls and ceiling of the Church. Treasurer James Boyd, Jr. informed the Vestry that he would obtain an application for a United Thank Offering Grant for the proposed ramp construction. George Stevens was appointed Lay Eucharistic Minister II by Bishop Theuner, replacing Joe Boudreau who wished to be put on inactive/limited status. Father John Allen continued to serve St. Stephen’s in a very positive way. The Sunday School, under the leadership of Nina Stevens continued to thrive. The Stevens Family hosted the annual Church picnic at the close of the Sunday School year, with the majority of the congregation attending. Before the 1995 annual meeting the Vestry held a meeting to review the proposed 1995 budget. It appeared there would be a shortfall in revenues of about $7000. After making adjustments the budget was set at $30,860.86, with a possible shortfall in revenue of $2,298.69. The Vestry applied for a grant from Advanced Funds for the 90s. The January 22nd Annual Meeting began with a delicious luncheon of lasagna and salad, and pizza for the children, prepared by Sabra Welch, Joe and Marion Knox. During the meeting Father Allen announced that Bishop Theuner had informed the congregation of the Northwood Episcopal Mission that the final Eucharist of the Mission would be celebrated on January 15th, as the Mission would be closed on that date. He asked that St. Stephen’s again invite members of the Mission to worship with us. The Vestry, in order to clarify memorial fund names, voted to establish the Memorial and Thanksgiving Fund, and to change the Building Maintenance Fund to the Property Maintenance Fund. The Vestry signed a contract with Building Insulating Company in the amount of $2943 for the insulating of the walls and roof of the Church. Because of the construction of the building, the insulation was blown in, and there was discussion relative to the insulation settling down in the future, and not providing the benefit it should. However, this was the only type of insulation that could be used. The insulating of the ceiling was placed on hold due to the condition of the ceiling boards. Because they were exceptionally dry and prone to cracking, it was not feasible to attempt to insulate from the inside of the Church. It was agreed to continue the project when the weather would allow shingles to be removed from the roof. In November the deposit for the roof work was returned. The Vestry continued to discuss the Undercroft heating problem, and a heating contractor was called to assess the heating system. The report indicated a new system was recommended which the Vestry found too expensive to propose to the Parish at that time. Following the Church’s conservation efforts, the Guild made the decision that members should bring and use their own coffee mug at meetings, washing them and hanging them on a rack made by Bob Knoettner, thus eliminating the use of paper/styrofoam cups. This worked well, and there were enough extra mugs so visitors also could use them. The attendance at the Guild meetings varied from 33 in attendance in February to 12 in attendance in September. However, the fundraising events were well attended and $4800 was raised. Money was set aside for the insulating of the Church and for Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets for needy area families. The Sunday School and Youth Group adopted a project of assisting a local family in need. With the help of the congregation, the adopted family of four was provided with food, clothing and Christmas presents. This project was in addition to the usual Thanksgiving and Christmas baskets that were provided to at least twelve area families each year. Two long-time members of the Church, Doris Adams and Elizabeth “Lib” Stimmell, passed away early in 1995. Memorial gifts were received in their memory. New Altar linens and new choir vestments were purchased, using a donation from the Doris Adams Family and Guild funds. Policies for the use of St. Stephen’s for special events, weddings and funerals were discussed and put into place by the Vestry. On August 15, 1995 a letter was received informing Treasurer James Boyd, Jr., that a “partial United Thank Offering Grant of $7500.00 was approved for use between September 1995 and September 1996 to insulate the walls and ceiling of a church built in 1867 as a summer chapel, now used year-round by fifty households, and to construct a ramp to provide wheelchair access to the church.” The Vestry began the process of finding a contractor for the project. By September 1995 pledging families had decreased from 31 to 22, and pledging revenues were off by $1200. The Vestry prepared a delicious luncheon buffet for the January 28, 1996 Annual Meeting. James Boyd, Jr. and Marge Morris were presented with a St. George the Dragon Slayer Medallion in recognition of their years of service to the Vestry. The Church began the Year 1996 with a deficit budget, planning to draw down reserves to meet operating expenses, but the deficit turned out to be less than expected. Performance on pledges was 98%, with total income at only 97% of anticipated. The deficit was $2368, and was covered by reserved funds. Work accomplished to the Church building over the past two years was outlined: new roof, outside painting, stained glass windows expertly repaired, insulation of walls, with ceiling insulation to be done this Spring. Also reported was the help provided to 20 needy Pittsfield families each month. Royce Kelley presented a gift of $1001.91 in honor of his 91st birthday, stating St. Stephen’s has been his “Heart and Soul since 1960”. The gift was to be used wherever needed. Treasurer Richard Corning informed the Vestry that he plans to better define the categories of expenses to comply with the new coding for the Parochial Report. He also recommended the use of purchase orders to assist in the coding process. The Vestry continued to discuss the ramp project, as well as maintenance projects as they received bids for the work. Father Allen initiated a Wednesday Afternoon Eucharist for those who cannot attend on Sunday, as well as anyone else who wished to attend. Seven people attended the first service. Muriel Hyde took on the responsibility of sending the Church bulletins to shut-ins and Church members who were away for the winter months. George Stevens and Richard Corning completed the plans for a ramp entrance to St. Stephen’s, to replace the steep granite steps. State requirements obligated the Parish to provide safe access to the Church for all those who wished to enter. During the summer of 1996 a ramp was constructed by removing the granite steps and mounding gravel and loam in the area between the Church entrance and the town’s sidewalk. Thus an “S” shaped cobblestone patterned concrete ramp, with iron railings, was created. Once the ramp was in place, the ladies of the Parish, under the guidance of Father Allen’s wife Ursula, planted perennials and ground cover to blanket the sides of the ramp area. Holly bushes held their place of honor on each side of the doorway. Memorial funds, in memory of Elizabeth “Lib” Stimmell, provided the resources for the plantings, along with donated plants from parishioners. The total cost of this entire project was $11,000, which included the United Thank Offering Grant of $7500. Once the project was completed, an article appeared in the Suncook Valley Sun, commenting on the change in the appearance of the Church, complimenting the Church for the way the ramp was constructed, especially the use of flowers and shrubs. There were some parishioners who expressed negative feelings about the ramp, however as time went on, most negativity turned to approval. On September 5, 1996 James Boyd, Jr. tendered his resignation as a member of St. Stephen’s and from the current duties assigned. The Vestry accepted his resignation with regret. He was a very valuable member who served as Church Treasurer for three years and who would be sadly missed. The Guild provided funds for shelving in the storage closet, choir vestments, a new Church sign, and the cost of the Parish Christmas Party. In December, the Treasurer predicted a $1600 deficit as of the end of the year. However, he anticipated the report at the January Annual Meeting would show a smaller deficit. At the 1997 Annual Meeting of the Parish held in February, Organist Elaine Dame reported that the 35 year old electronic organ had reached the age where replacement parts were no longer available. She stated a replacement, a very good used Allen organ, could be obtained for $2000. Royce Kelley, learning of our need, presented the Vestry with a check to purchase a replacement organ. This gift was given in memory of Royce’s grandparents Mary and Joseph Kelley. A committee consisting of Father Allen, Elaine Dame, Joe and Marion Knox proceeded to find a newer organ. On March 16, 1997, during the worship service, on the fifth Sunday in Lent, a “new to us” organ was dedicated, in memory of Royce Kelley’s grandparents, Joseph and Mary Kelley, and in thanksgiving of Royce’s 92nd birthday. A birthday party for Royce was held during the Guild meeting that followed the service. A memorial plaque has been placed on the organ. On June 4, 1997, at the age of 93, long-time parishioner Agnes I. Ring died at her home. Miss Ring served the Church in the position of Church clerk for many years, as well as secretary of the Guild. She was a teacher by profession, and the records of her services as clerk and secretary attest to the excellence of her knowledge of business and English. Miss Ring bequeathed a legacy to St. Stephen’s that will sustain the Church for many years to come. A Service of Thanksgiving for Agnes Ring was held on June 27. On July 16, 1997, after a period of declining health, Father Donald Corringham, who served St. Stephen’s from 1971 to 1987, died. Father Corringham, after his retirement, served St. Stephen’s on a supply basis from time to time, and also attended our services whenever possible, bringing his wife Nellie, and other family members with him. His entire family joined our Christmas Eve service in 1996, which was a wonderful expression of love for St. Stephen’s Parish. The memorial service for Father Corringham was held in Tilton. St. Stephen’s Parish was yoked with Tilton for many years. In order to provide hearing assistance to parishioners, George and Elvia Hetu gave a donation to purchase an assisted hearing device, dedicated to Elvia’s mother, Alice Knox. Father Allen provided the necessary microphone system, and members of the congregation were able to better hear the service. Interest was expressed in replacing the pew cushions what were given to the Church by the Baptist Church several years ago, and also replacing the various individual kneelers with more appropriate ones. This was considered an expensive project that would require much thought and planning. In August, Joe Knox resigned as member at large of the Vestry, and Rebekkah Fuller was appointed to replace him. Joe had served in many positions on the Vestry, and remained as Chairperson of the Guild. The Sunday School and Youth Group thrived and provided outreach to area families in need by having a bowl-a-thon. Rachel Stevens chaired a committee that constructed a float for the Old Home Day Parade, and they received first place in the non-commercial division. The Old Home Day Fair raised $1550. The Allens hosted their first cider and donut party with fresh made cider and homemade donuts being prepared by those who attended. It was a wonderful family event held on a crisp October day. The Guild held a fall supper, a special bake sale with pies made to order and a successful Christmas Fair. A total of $4576.11 was raised by the Guild for use by the Vestry for Outreach and other projects. Early in 1998, Joan Mason donated funds, in memory of her husband Warren C. Mason, for new pew cushions as well as padding for new kneelers. In May, Joe Knox provided the Vestry with a $3700 estimate for the new pew cushions. The Vestry voted to have Joe Knox represent the Vestry in the handling of this project. Discussion continued relative to replacing the pew cushions and kneelers, and the need to obtain the services of an appropriate woodworking company to construct the replacement kneelers. Bob Knoettner was consulted on the design of the kneelers, and he provided a sample kneeler that could be shown to woodworking companies. Until a company was selected for the kneelers and the cost of the entire project could be determined, this project was placed on hold by the Vestry while Joe Knox continued to locate the services of a woodworking company. During the year the building committee experienced problems in obtaining services for caulking and painting the rose window, and also for replacing the exterior doors. Also, the problem of sufficiently heating the Undercroft during the winter for Sunday School and meetings, continued to be a concern of the committee. The Guild participated in the first Pittsfield Town-wide Yard Sale, and also served hot dogs and soda. It was a wonderful experience and the result was a very successful sale. The Guild also assisted two families in need of assistance, purchased a new dehumidifier, provided funds for the annual Christmas Party, and presented $4841 to the Vestry. The Vestry received a $1500 grant from the Diocese for the purchase of a computer system for use by the Treasurer, Church School and other Church officials. In February of 1999, the Vestry received and approved a bid from Benchmark by Bergeron and Allen in the amount of $3730 for new kneelers. The motion included using funds from the Warren C. Mason Memorial Gift, the Beauchemin Fund, and property maintenance funds for the complete package of new pew cushions and new padded kneelers, cushions and kneeler padding to be made by R & V Upholstering of Northwood. Total cost of this project was $7430. On February 28, l999, Father Allen announced he would be retiring as our Rector on May 1, 1999. His decision to retire was a result of a long-known health concern, for which he had been receiving treatment for several years. In March, Father Allen introduced the Parish to Kevin Nichols, who had left the priesthood of the Roman Catholic Church, and was now receiving training to become an Episcopal Priest. As part of his training, Kevin assisted Father Allen, and he remained with us until August. He was received as an Episcopal Priest on December 11, 1999. Shortly thereafter he served as part-time associate at Christ Church in Exeter. On the last Sunday in March, special recognition was given to Bertha Hammen who celebrated her 100th birthday that week. On April 11, 1999, new cushions and kneeler pads were dedicated in memory of Warren C. Mason by his wife Joan, his children, and grandchildren, after much hard work by Joe Knox who coordinated the cushion and kneeler project. Two sets of flower vases, given in memory of former parishioner Doris Adams were also dedicated. On April 25, 1999, following Father Allen’s last official service as our Rector, members of the Parish gathered at the home of Patrick and Marjorie Morris for a potluck meal and farewell to the Allens. A gift of money, a gift of a yet-to-be-made quilt, along with a large collage of pictures of events and people of the Parish, were presented to the Allens. During Father Allen’s years with St. Stephen’s, his wife Ursula coordinated the Sunday School program, taught a class, along with providing many upgrades in the furnishings for the Sunday School and Undercroft. The Church began a search for another Rector. In May, Vestry member Charlotte Berry, along with Don Ellison, Chet Fuller, Leone Keene, Vi Knoettner, Joe Knox, Ed Loomis, Ella Jo Regan and Sabra Welch volunteered to serve on the Search Committee. Joe Knox and Ella Jo Regan were elected Co-Chairpersons for the committee and work began in August with a meeting of the Vestry, the committee, Bishop Theuner and Canon Bobbie Fairman of the Diocese. The Guild continued providing monthly Rotary suppers, although there was a decrease in the number of members who assisted. Funds from the suppers and sales and fairs provided outreach to a dozen families in the area, as well as inreach and general funds for the Vestry. Friends of Agnes Ring gave the Parish a Japanese Cherry tree in her memory. The tree, planted at the left of the Church entrance, provides a welcome breath of spring each year when it is in full bloom. The Guild formed a committee whose charge was to make recommendations for the use of the money bequeathed to the Guild by Agnes Ring. The recommendation that received the Guild’s vote was to have the stained glass windows behind the Altar repaired. Through the efforts of Joe Knox, and within the $2000 bequeathed to the Guild, the windows were repaired and a plaque in her honor was placed on the Memorial Board. Ways to provide sufficient heating in the Undercroft continued to be discussed. To begin finding a solution to the problem, Bob Knoettner and George Stevens devised an experimental duct that would direct the heat from the ceiling to the floor area. Although the duct provided a partial solution, it was decided to investigate other ways to solve the problem. During the summer months, Rev. Jack O’Donnell of Milford served as our priest. On August 15th, Rev. Teresa Gocha began to serve us as interim Priest. Rev. Gocha was the first woman priest in St. Stephen’s history to lead the congregation. During her time as interim priest, she augmented existing ministries, led a Summer Bible School, and developed a post-card ministry. Rev. Gocha assisted the Search Committee and the Vestry with their concerns and frustrations associated with ongoing change and transition. The Search Committee presented their draft profile booklet to the Vestry for their comments and suggestions. Approval was obtained, with the required addition of statistical, survey information, pictures and the following mission statement:
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