The Reformed Presbyterian Church of Oswego, N.Y., recently held a weekend celebration of its 25th anniversary. The church was formally organized on Oct. 7, 1980. Ceremonies included the celebration of the 25th year of the ordination of Pastor Kit Swartz.

The Oswego church has two daughter churches. The RP Church of Fulton, N.Y., was begun in 1994 and Christ Church of New Hartford, N.Y., in 1999.

A community reception, hosted at the church, was attended by Fred Crisafulli, mayoral delegate, who brought greetings from the city. Pastor Bill King brought greetings from Elim Grace Church and a special silver vest to commemorate Pastor Swartz’s 25th year of ordination. Also attending were Alderman and Mrs. Randy Bateman. Many friends, neighbors, and other pastors were also present. Pastor Swartz gave a brief theological sketch entitled, “Why is there a Reformed Presbyterian Church of North America in Oswego?” Elder John McGrath gave an abbreviated historical account, and the program ended with prayer and a time of refreshments and fellowship.

On Saturday evening, a congregational dinner was held at the Oswego Elks Club. Rev. Ed Robson gave a prayer of remembrance. Pastor Robson led the Syracuse, N.Y., RPC for 23 years and has been a longtime friend and mentor of Pastor Swartz. He was also instrumental in the formation of the Oswego RPC. Elders George Hueber and John McGrath gave a historical recounting of 25 years. Steve Standish read his humorous “My First Year As a Reformed Presbyterian,” published in 1992 in the Covenanter Witness, and Elder Kevin Plummer read greetings from those not able to attend. A prayer of hope was offered by Pastor Aaron Goerner, and a closing farewell was given by Pastor Swartz. Pastor Harold Harrington and his wife, Ena, from New Albany, Pa., were in attendance. Pastor Harrington taught for many years at Ottawa Theological Hall and also pastored many churches. Guests joined in the milestone celebration from RP churches in Cambridge, Mass., Pittsburgh, Pa., and New Hartford, Owego, Syracuse, Fulton, and North Syracuse, N.Y.

The Sunday worship sermon, “Seven Blessings for the Oswego Church,” was brought by Rev. Robson. In attendance were Pastor John McMillan and wife Marion, of Darlington, Pa. Dinner was followed by a psalm sing, which ended a joyous weekend celebration. Previous activities included a children’s picnic and an officer’s dinner.