About Us
History
Our congregation was organized in Jasper almost 100 years ago, on February 25, 1912. There were eight charter members, five women and three men. It is fascinating to think that our church began the year that the Titanic sank and several years before the First World War. Women's skirts still came close to brushing the floor, and men wore waistcoats, pocket watches and hats.
About two years after the congregation was organized, the church purchased land and constructed its first building. We have enjoyed the leadership of many wonderful pastors through our long history.
Very early in the written records of the church, you will find names of families who now have children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren still associated with the congregation as current members or visitors. But while the church has a long history and many continuing families, it has also embraced change. Over the years, it has added to its church buildings and renovated its space to provide a welcoming setting for worship, education and fellowship. New families and numerous visitors have joined us as we worship God, study the Bible, and grow in discipleship and friendship. We thank God today as we look expectantly to the future for ways that we may bless others as we have been blessed by God.
Theology
We follow Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) traces its history to the Protestant Reformation: grace alone, faith alone, Sripture alone. Much of what we believe began with the began with the French lawyer John Calvin (1509-1564). Presbyterians follow a pattern of religious thought known as "Reformed theology" and have a form of government that stresses active leadership of both ministers and church members.
Some principles that are central to our beliefs are: God's sovereignty, authority of Scripture, justification through faith, and the priesthood of all believers. Our salvation is through Jesus and not through our own doing. Our calling is to share the love of God with all the world, witnessing to the good news, making disciples, participating in God's activity of healing, ministering to the needs of others, and establishing peace, justice and love in the world. The creeds and confessions of our church are a living tradition that strengthen our personal commitment, life and witness.
Session
The Session of a Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) congregation is composed of several Elders chosen by the people.
Currently, the Session members are:
Cindy Morgan - Clerk
Martha Ard
Jim Coe
Penny Mickler
Elizabeth Mitchell
Ben Norris
Asa Smith
Membership
A person becomes member of the church through faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and acceptance of his Lordship in all life. Active membership in a particular church happens in one of these ways: by profession of faith, reaffirmation of faith, or transfer of certificate from another church. Baptized children may become active members by a public profession of faith. Membership means that the individual has accepted Christ's call to be involved responsibly in the membership of the church.