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Older Than the State of Iowa

Congregation of the Month: Sharon RPC

  — | Columns, Congregation of the Month | March 05, 2007



Sharon RPC

Location: Morning Sun, Iowa

Presbytery: Midwest

Organization: Sept. 26, 1846

Membership: 70 communicant; 13 baptized

Pastor: Ronald Good

History

The saga of the Sharon RPC reaches beyond her organizational date. It touches Ireland and immigration to America. In the spring of 1840, the first Sharon families arrived in the Iowa Territory from Philadelphia. The church is older than the state itself. Originally it was known as “Linn Grove and Cedar” and became Sharon in 1854. There were 17 charter members, and a meeting house was erected in 1853. The present building was constructed in 1863 and has been remodeled a number of times.

James McDonald was the first pastor, serving for 21 years. Since organizing, only 12 pastors have served this congregation. During the first 125 years, literally hundreds of people coming west became members, then moved on to the greater Midwest.

Harriet McElhinney, 90, is the oldest active member. The church leadership now includes three elders and five deacons.

Ministry

The Lord’s worship and faithful teaching of His Word form the core of the church’s ministry. Worship is conducted morning and evening. Adult, children’s and young people’s classes are held.

During winter months, a biweekly Bible study is held in Burlington and a biweekly women’s study in Morning Sun.

Summertime finds members enjoying the Iowa Family Camp and enjoying psalm sings with the Washington, Iowa, RPC. One of the things the church is known for is vacation Bible school (VBS). Each year since 1951, a VBS has been held in the summer with an average of 60 children.

Being a rural congregation poses many challenges as the effects of major agriculture and population shifts are felt. Nevertheless, it is the desire of the church to remain faithful, obedient, and opportunistic in the Lord’s service.

Prayer Requests

  1. The church is an older group with a number of elderly members and shut-ins. Pray for their serious health issues and vocational needs.

  2. Pray for maturity in Christ and a renewing spirit within the congregation.

  3. There is no other Reformed witness in Southeast Iowa. Pray for faithfulness and fruitfulness in extending the gospel in word and work.

  4. Remember our young people and adults as they face peer pressures. Pray also for them to learn how to live for Christ daily.