Local church celebrates 150 years of service

Churches are a vital part of every community. They are as woven into the fabric of an area as its schools and businesses. It is becoming increasingly rare for churches to maintain their presence for long periods of time, so the 150th anniversary of the Emanuel United Church of Christ is worth celebrating.

Emanuel UCC held its celebration on March 26, which included an open house at the church and an exhibit at the Cape Girardeau County History Center in Jackson, replete with photographs of church trips, displays of remodeling jobs and historical timelines, among other things. Members discussed what the church means to them and the influence it has on their lives.

Pastor Joe Rowley, who has been at UCC for less than two years, spoke highly of the "tight-knit community" both in the church and in Jackson, according to the Southeast Missourian's Marybeth Niederkorn. "I love how close-knit, full of good people this community is," he added.

For 43 years, Margaret Puchbauer was the church secretary. Though she retired in 2014, she recalled with fondness her years working there. "It seems to me, in working here, I got so much more than I gave," she said. Puchbauer remains a church member, the church's most senior member, in fact.

Member Cassi Holcomb expressed pride that many active, staple members of the Jackson community have come through UCC. "It keeps us going," she said. Clearly, it does -- and has been keeping people going for 150 years with no signs of slowing down.

With so many negative things with which people contend, a church doing what churches are supposed to do is refreshing. Emanuel United Church of Christ is loving people, sharing faith and fostering a family atmosphere. Congratulations, UCC. May your influence continue for another 150 years.

The church display at the History Center will remain up for several months, so stop by and take a look.

While not many churches in the area can say they have been around for 150 years, many others continue to do important work and reach people with the Gospel. Whether you are a pastor, staff members or member of a local congregation, thank you for your service. God bless you.