History Prosperity ARP Church 

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History of Prosperity ARP Church 1988-2005

Taft, Tennessee

On July 17th, 1988, the 160th Birthday Celebration of Prosperity was held at our church. Mr. Ben Johnston, Moderator of Synod attended along with many former members and families. Dinner-on-the-ground was served at noon with a Psalm/Hymn singing and visiting in the afternoon.

Mike Ogwal, refugee from Uganda, spoke at a meeting and family night supper at our church, September 21, 1988. 

On March 26, 1989 our First Easter Sunrise Service was observed. The service is modeled after the historic sunrise services at Old Salem, Winston Salem, North Carolina. The service begins in the sanctuary with the historic declaration---“The Lord is risen” and its response---“He is risen indeed.” An eight member brass band from Westminster Christian Academy  performed during the service in the sanctuary and then moved out into the cemetery to conclude the Sunrise Service. The band came from Huntsville, Alabama on Saturday night prior to services on Sunday. Sleeping bags were brought and the band members stayed overnight in the dining hall. Some of the W.O.C. ladies prepared supper and breakfast for the band. Bible School was held the week of June 19-23, 1989, in the evening from 6:30-8:30. Attendance was good and a puppet program was presented in assembly with David Stephenson. Rev. Rabun Williams, pastor of White Oak ARP Church in Moreland, GA. conducted our revival from July 9th-12th. A fish fry, a custom for several years, was given following the revival.  We had a guest speaker, Ralph Hood, a humorist. His grandfather was pastor at Prosperity Church from 1902-1910. The annual Thanksgiving Breakfast was observed November 19th with approximately 60 people in attendance. Immediately following breakfast we had a special Thanksgiving Service in the sanctuary.

On February 18th, 1990, Westminster Christian Academy presented a talent show and were treated with a spaghetti supper by the W.O.C. ladies. An offering of $100.00 was given for Bonclarken Ropes Course. Prosperity observed their 2nd  Easter Sunrise Service on April 15, 1990 with several visiting pastors in attendance.  Also the brass band from Westminster Christian Academy provided inspirational music for this service. There were approximately 70 in attendance. Coffee and donuts were served after the service by ladies from the W.O.C. On May 18, 1990, Sandra Myers, a member of our congregation, graduated with highest honors from Washington University in St. Louis with a BA degree in Chinese Language. She is the daughter of Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Derksen. Dot Dagenhart was the guest missionary speaker on October 24th. She presented slides that depicted life in Pakistan. The annual Thanksgiving Service and Breakfast was observed November 22nd.

 Our 3rd  annual Easter Sunrise Service was March 31, 1991. We are increasing in number each year. Margie Edgar, one of our youth, went to work in the Mexico Mission during the week of March 22nd. She participated in the construction of two houses and is the daughter of the Rev. Charles Edgar and his wife, Joyce.

 Rev. Charles Edgar was honored on June 1, 1991 by Westminster Christian Academy for his faithful years of service to the school. At the school a Charles. F. Edgar, Jr. Teacher Endowment Fund was established which Prosperity contributed to. Bible School was held June 3rd.-7th. The theme was “I can do all things thru Christ who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13. At the family night supper June 26th an offering of $70.00 was taken for the swimming pool at Bonclarken. A series of special meetings was July 7-10 with the Rev. Dean Olive as our speaker. He is pastor of the Madison Grace Baptist Church. The annual fish fry was July 11th. At the B&D restaurant.  The Thanksgiving Breakfast was November 28, 1991 with a “Thanks Service” immediately following.

 The 4th  Easter Sunrise Service was April 19, 1992. The brass band from Westminster Christian Academy presented special music in both the sanctuary and the cemetery. There were approximately 65 in attendance. Coffee and donuts were served after the service by ladies from the W.O.C. Rev. Roy Hulling from the Madison Mission Church was the guest speaker for the family night supper on Wednesday, April 22, 1992. He spoke concerning the work in the Madison Mission.

At the family night supper on May 27, 1992, the guest speakers were Mr. and Mrs. David Rogers. Their message concerned work they had done for Christian International Radio in Africa. Margie Edgar, daughter of Rev. Charles Edgar and his wife Joyce, left June 27, 1992 for Rio Verde, Mexico to help with Bible Schools and camps during the month of July. Revival Meetings were held  June 28 to July 1, 1992. Rev. Bill McClain conducted the services with wife Barbara and children Laura, Graham, Julie and Allison in attendance. Thursday following the meetings, everyone was invited to the Bar-B-Q Shack for the annual fish fry. Speakers for the Family Night Supper on October 28, 1992 were Mike and Mary Lott, candidates for Wycliff Bible Translators. The annual Thanksgiving Breakfast was on November 26, 1992 with a large crowd in attendance. A very inspiring praise service followed the breakfast.

 Memorial: Alfred Brown Moore – Born July 18, 1901, died January 21, 1992.  Mr. Alfred lived in Lincoln County his entire life of 90 years. He attended Prosperity ARP Church all that time. He served as an elder for many years.

 Sara Weber, one of our young people went to Jamaica in March 1993 for a week to do mission work. She helped in Bible School and other classes for this special work.  In April, 1993,  she gave a presentation of her work at the family night supper.

April 4, 1993. A sign was erected in front of the church in memory of Mrs. Dorothy Byers. She devoted so much of her time to this church, taking care of the flowers and plants in front and around the church, visitations on behalf of the church, held offices of the W.O.C, sent the devotional books to non regular attendees, cleaning the church and at home she entertained visiting preachers, Presbyterial delegates, and young people from the church. She will be missed. The 5th Annual Easter Sunrise Service was April 11th with approximately 110 in attendance. The brass band from Westminster Christian Academy presented special music in both the sanctuary and the cemetery. Also, Prosperity Church Choir offered special music under the direction of Jocintha Rogers. Bible School was the week of May 31st – June 4th. Average attendance was 32. All W.O.C ladies participated in some way. Offerings received went towards the Family Living Project which is helping “Hannah’s House” of Fayetteville. This is a shelter for abused women and children.

 Special Meetings were July 18th – July 21st 1993 with Dr. John Hill from Charlotte, North Carolina as the minister. All the W.O.C ladies helped to prepare meals during this week. We had two missionary couples to tell of their work at Family Night Suppers. Jack and Sally Kennedy on September 8, on their work in Mali, Africa and David and Lisa Bacon on November 18, 1993 about their work with Mission Aviation Fellowship. November 14, 1993, we had Mr. James Curtis of New Tribes Mission. He gave a missionary presentation for a joint Sabbath School. Mr. Bill Evans, a student at Vanderbilt University, was ordained into the ministry at Prosperity, Tennessee August 7, 1993. He will be a Bible teacher at Erskine College this fall. The W.O.C ladies gave a reception in his honor following the ordination service. The annual Thanksgiving breakfast was November 25th with the young people preparing the meal. A special thanks service followed breakfast.

 1994. The 6th Annual Easter Sunrise Service was held in April with approximately 110 in attendance. The brass band from Westminster Christian Academy presented special music. An Easter Egg Hunt was organized on April 2nd for the young children. About 30 young children and adults were present. We had one college graduate, Ryan Towry, and one high school graduate, Lee Motlow. We had several family night suppers during the year on Wednesdays. Mark Russell, a graduate of Westminster Academy and a student at Auburn University spoke on May 18th. He will be teaching religion to the schools in Russia for a year. The special meetings were May 29th-June 1st. They were led by the Rev. Parker Agnew, pastor of the Cleveland Street ARP Church, New Albany, Missisippi. Bible School was June 26th – 3o, 1994.  We had an enrollment of 60. An offering was taken for our young people’s trip to Mexico in 1995. Annual Thanksgiving Breakfast was November 24th. The young people cooked and served this meal followed by a Thanksgiving Service. A grocery pounding was given to David and Yvette Tanner this year. David is our new pianist. We had two special music programs this year. The Arthur Sulser male choirs came singing on September 21st. On December 19th, the Twickenham Singers provided beautiful Christmas music for us. Our pastor, the Rev. Charles Edgar is a member of this group.

March 18, 1995. Missionaries Bill and Kathy Warner came to Prosperity for a young people’s supper. They also were with us on the 19^th for a joint Sabbath School class where they told of their work in Mexico. The 7^th Annual Easter Sunrise Service was on April 16^th. The brass band from Westminster Christian Academy presented special music. The W.O.C ladies served coffee and doughnuts after the service. Bible School was June 5^th - 9^th with all the W.O.C participating in some way. There were 39 enrolled and an offering of $95.00 was received. Our revival services were held June 26^th – 28^th with Rev. David Hammond as the speaker. The Thursday night following services is the annual fish fry. Katie Beth Jennings and Julie Motlow attended the Music Drama Camp at Bonclarken the week of July 9^th. Every active family in our church now receives the ARP Magazine. Mrs. Jewel Good takes care of the subscriptions. Several speakers came to tell about their work at Family Night Suppers. Some of the speakers were Scott and Tanya Berthiamune on Mexico, Paul Alexander on the Ukraine and Bill and Kathy Warner on Mexico. Moderator of Presbytery, Teddy Ray, told about prayer ministry that he leads in the Fayetteville Church. We have been privileged to have an exchange student from Russia in our congregation this year. She is Nataiya (Natasha) Bashurina and she is staying with our pastor and his wife. Sixty-two people attended the Annual Thanksgiving Breakfast. The young adults cooked for the congregation followed by the Thanksgiving Service.

 January 27, 1996. Mason Young and David Sawyer entertained at the Family Night Supper. They are a Christian Country Duo. Mason Young is the son of Dr. Reynolds and Cecil Young. The Easter Egg Hunt was on Saturday afternoon, April 6^th. Youth Chairman Mrs. Lena Weber organized this event. Prosperity’s 8^th Annual Easter Sunrise Service was April 7^th. Ben Johnston and wife Joann attended. Ben is editor of the ARP Magazine and took photos for the magazine. Ben attended Prosperity as a youth while his father was pastor.  World Missions Chairman, Joyce Edgar, requested a love gift to be given to Natasha Bashurin, a Russian exchange student for a trip to Carnegie Hall. The church also gave Natasha a love gift for her graduation from high school. Our Special Services were July 23^rd – 26^th with Rev. Mike Howell as the speaker. He is from Christ Presbyterian Church in Gadsden, Alabama. On Thursday night, June 27^th following the special meetings the Annual Fish Fry was held. Summer Bible School began the week of July 15th. There was an attendance of 57 and an average daily attendance of 42 children. A closing program and wiener roast was given on Friday, July 19^th. At the Family Night Supper on July 31^st, we were entertained by the Himebook Brothers, who gave a wonderful concert. Two youths attended Music Drama Camp in July. They were Katie Beth Jennings and Lorn Coble. The Annual Thanksgiving Breakfast was November 28^th at 7:00 a.m. followed by the Thanksgiving Service of Devotion and Praise at 8:15 a.m. The Annual Day of Prayer by the Prosperity Church was December 3^rd.

1997. Youth Chairman, Mrs. Kay Derksen gave a Valentine Party for the young children. They addressed Valentines to send to the elderly and shut-ins.  Eight children were present for the party. Mrs. Derksen gave an Easter Egg Hunt for the children on the Saturday afternoon before Easter. We have had several family night suppers with a wide variety of speakers. The Gideons presented a film and talk on their work in distributing Bibles to different places in the world. Terry Gibbs from Wycliff Bible Translators was our speaker at the August 12^th Family Night Supper. Our special meetings were June 15^th – 18^th with R.C. Sproul, Jr. as the speaker. There was Bible School Fun Day in July. A Bible video was shown, crafts were made and a skating party was held after lunch. Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Renegar celebrated their 50^th Wedding Anniversary on May 24^th.  Steve and Lena Weber were surprised by their children for their 25^th Wedding Anniversary.  We had two young people to graduate. Justin McElroy from Lincoln County High School and Sara Weber from Redeemer College, Ontario Canada. Mrs. Margaret Edgar, mother of the Rev. Charles Edgar, was honored by her grandchildren on her 90^th birthday. An open house for her at Prosperity Church was Sabbath afternoon, August 17^th at 2:00 p.m. Prosperity’s 9^th Annual Easter Sunrise Service was April 22^nd. The brass band from Westminster Christian Academy presented special music. The Annual Thanksgiving Breakfast was November 27^th  at 7:00 a.m. The young people cook and served this meal followed by a Thanksgiving Service of Devotion and Praise.

1998. Youth Chairman, Kay Derksen gave a Valentine Party for the children on February 7th. They addressed valentines for the shut-ins and elderly of the church and community.  A joint dinner celebration on February 22^nd was given in honor of Miss Eunice Byers’ 90^th Birthday and the 70^th Wedding Anniversary of Mr. and Mrs. Coy Grigsby. The kick off of “The Outreach North America Campaign” was also started with a video presentation at this time. Our goal was $10,500. On April 12^th, the 10^th Annual Easter Sunrise Service was observed with a large crowd in attendance. The Westminster Christian Academy Brass Band gave some very inspiring music. Ladies from the W.O.C. served coffee and doughnuts after services. There were three members from Prosperity who graduated from High School and College. Bryan Coble from high school and Steve and Bob Weber (father and son) from college. Moderator of General Synod, Jim Dixon spoke at the Morning Worship Service on June 21, 1998.   Reverend Charles (Chip) Edgar III brought the morning message on July 5^th at the 11:00 a.m. service. He is the pastor of St. Marks Episcopal Church in Glen Elly, Illinois and a former member of our congregation. Our special Meetings were August 2^nd - 5^th with Rev. Charles Bradley, pastor of Hopewell Church, Culleoke, Tennessee as the speaker. Kim and Greg Long led special music on Monday through Wednesday nights. An Officers training class began on September 9, 1998. Mr. William Deaton from ARP Foundation spoke at the Family Night Supper on October 14, 1998. The annual Thanksgiving Breakfast  and Praise Service was observed on November 26^th with 40 people in attendance.

1999. Youth Chairman, Mrs. Geraldine Jennings gave a Valentine Party for the children’s class. Fifteen invitations were mailed out. Games were played and refreshments were served. Valentine cards were addressed for the shut-ins and elderly. Mr. and Mrs. Coy Grigsby celebrated a milestone in their lives on February 9^th by observing their 71^st wedding anniversary. Mr. Steve Weber was installed as Elder on February 28, 1999. Bill and Kathy Warner, Missionaries to Mexico, came to the Family Night Supper in February. They presented slides and told of their work in Mexico. An Easter party was given on March 27^th for the young children by Youth Chairman, Mrs. Geraldine Jennings. Mrs. Kay Derksen gave the devotional and prayer. Easter cards were sent to the shut-ins and elderly. Games were played and refreshments were served. The 11^TH Annual Easter Sunrise Service was observed on April 4^th. The Westminster Christian Academy Brass Band gave some very inspiring music. Ladies from the W.O.C. served coffee and doughnuts after services. Each year we see an increased attendance.  A “Friends Sunday” was on April 18, 1999. Friends and neighbors were invited to a fellowship lunch following services. Mr. J.W. Kennedy, a member of Prosperity ARP Church spoke at the “Historical Walk at Maple Hill Cemetery” in Huntsville, Alabama, on April 11, 1999. Annual Summer Bible School was held July 19^th - 22^nd. Theme for this year: “We Shine For Jesus”. There were 44 enrolled with average attendance of 36. Offering total was $87.48 and was given to the Lincoln County Red Cross. Summer Revival Services were August 1 – 4 with Ben Dowling, pastor of Oak Hill, Camden and Prosperity, AL as the speaker. Greg and Kim Long directed the music for the services. Martha Banks was the pianist. We extended congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Eskin Jennings on their 50^th Wedding Anniversary. We were honored to celebrate with them at a reception here at Prosperity church. Missionaries Mike and Mary Lott were honored with a family night supper and a pounding of groceries. They will be living in the manse for a year. They are conducting Bible Study at the Manse each Wednesday night. A Reformation Party was held at the Manse on October 31 with 19 in attendance. The Annual Thanksgiving Breakfast and Thanksgiving Service was November 25^th.

2000. Missionaries Mike and Mary Lott presented a youth contemporary music program at the church on January 23, 2000.  A Valentine Party for the youth was given on February 5, 2000 by the Youth Chairman, Geraldine Jennings. The 12 children present played games and signed 21 valentine cards to be mailed. We offered congratulations to Margaret and Coy Grigsby on their 72^nd wedding anniversary February 22, 2000. A St. Patrick’s Day Party was given by Youth Chairman Geraldine Jennings for our youth. There were 11 children present and 4 adults. We welcomed Gaynell Bates as a new member of our congregation in February. R.M. Gibson and Gaynell Bates were married on April 2, 2000 at Mrs. Bates’ home. An Easter party and Egg Hunt was given by Youth Chairman, Geraldine Jennings. There were 12 children and 4 adults in attendance. Games were played and eggs were hunted.

The 12^th Annual Easter Sunrise Service was April 23, 2000. The Westminster Christian Academy Brass Band gave some very inspiring music. Ladies from the W.O.C. served coffee and doughnuts after services. Revival Services were May 21 – 24, 2000 with Major Michael Yarman, Army Chaplin Corps, conducting the services. Greg and Kim Long directed the music for these services. We were saddened by the death of Mrs. Lena Weber on May 20, 2000. Lena taught the beginners class in Sabbath School. She truly delighted in this work and all the children loved her dearly. She will be missed. Jubilee Birthday dinner was given July 21, 2000. Mike and Mary Lott were honored also at this dinner. They were given a microwave, linens and spices as they were returning to the mission field in Indonesia. A surprise 25^th Wedding Anniversary Reception was given by Angie Coble for her parents Doug and Brenda Coble. There were approximately 70 in attendance for this event. Bible School was July 30 – August 2, 2000 with 50 adults and children enrolled. A special thanks to Mrs. Charlene Feuchtinger and Mrs. Lisa Jennings for their hard work. Our congregation surprised Rev. Charles Edgar and Joyce with a dinner after church on August 6, 2000 as this marked the 25^th anniversary of their pastorate at Prosperity. A scrapbook of their years with us was given to them. On August 17, 2000, Scott and Tanya Berthiaume attended a Fish Fry Supper at one of the local restaurants with many members from the congregation. The Berthiaume’s are missionaries to Mexico. We welcomed missionaries Keith and Glynni Lorick and children with a family night supper on September 27. They will be staying in the manse throughout the year. They are missionaries for Peru. A Fall Festival party was given on October 31, 2000 for the youth by Charlene Feuchtinger, Youth Chairman. The Annual Thanksgiving Breakfast and Thanksgiving Service was November 23, 2000. We were saddened by the death of Mr. Lawrence Hardiman on August 24, 2000. He had been a long time caretaker of Prosperity Cemetery.

2001. Katie Beth Jennings, a member of Prosperity ARP Church, was named “Most Intellectual Girl” at Fayetteville Jr. High School. The academic achievement is awarded to the girl with the highest grade point average from grades 7, 8, and half of the 9^th grade year. A Valentine Party was given by Youth Chairman, Charlene Feuchtinger. Six children and 3 adults were present. Outgoing Youth Chairman, Geraldine Jennings was presented a red rose. We welcomed Rex and Carol Walker as new members to our congregation on March 25, 2001. There was a St. Patrick’s Day party on March 10, 2001 given for the youth by the Youth Chairman, Charlene Feuchtinger. On April 1, 2001 the youth of our church presented a musical program which was enjoyed by the congregation. A special thanks to Joel and Charlene Feuchtinger for their dedication to the youth work. The 13^th Annual Easter Sunrise Service was April 15, 2001. This is a very moving service as the congregation moves out into the cemetery for the final part of the service. We are witness to the glorious Easter Sunrise. The Westminster Christian Academy Brass Band provided the very inspiring music and the Ladies from the W.O.C. served coffee and doughnuts after services. A family night supper on Wednesday May 9, 2001 welcomed Paul and Lorriane Alexander to discuss their ministry in the Ukraine. Youth of all ages were invited to a rock-a-thon on MAY 25, 2001. Children of all ages were invited to bring their rocking chairs to rock. This event was held to support our youth fellowship and puppet ministry. There were 19 present and $425 was given in support. On June 6, 2001 we celebrated the Jubilee Birthday with a covered dish supper, Robin Stephenson told about her trip to Russia for a week to help with the Opora Ministry for recovering alcoholics. She had a very interesting presentation to share with us. Several of our members are due congratulations in the month of June. They are: Martha Lee Coble on her retirement from Highland Rim School where she has been employed for the past 31 years; Eugene and Frances Renegar on their 54^th Wedding Anniversary; Julie Motlow graduated from Lincoln County High School; Melissa Walker, daughter of Rex and Carol Walker, who was elected Senator for the College of Arts and Sciences in the spring elections of the SGA at Austin Peay State University. We welcomed Matt Slayton into our congregation on June 10^th. We were saddened on June 30^th by the death of Mrs. Margaret Grigsby.  The summer service began July 15^th with Rev. Ralph Laquardia conducting Sabbath services at 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Nightly services were held from July 16 through 18 at 7:30 p.m. We also celebrated the annual Fish Fry on Thursday, July 19^th. Bible School began August 5, 2001 and closed on August 8^th. Teachers and helpers were: Charlene Feuchtinger, Laura Walker, Carol Walker, Eugene Renegar, Kay Derksen, Katie Beth Jennings, Joel Feuchtinger and Lisa Jennings. We welcomed Cody Feuchtinger as a new member to our congregation based on his profession of faith and baptism on August 12, 2001. We continue to have Bible Study and Prayer Services on Wednesday nights. We average 10-15 in attendance each week. The Men of the Church have a Prayer Breakfast the last Saturday of each month at the Church. Auburn Jennings was promoted to the Early Elementary Sunday School Class on September 9, 2001 In October 2001, Our Church sent $500 to World Witness for the Pakistan Evacuation Fund. On October 20, 2001, the Tennessee-Alabama Presbytery met at the Fairmont Presbyterian Church in Bristol, Tennessee. This Church was accepted into the Tennessee-Alabama Presbytery. Those attending from Prosperity were: Rev. and Mrs. Charles Edgar, Elder and Mrs. Eugene Renegar and Deacon and Mrs. Ronald Derksen. While there, our ladies met with the women from Fairmont and discussed starting a W.O.C chapter. We welcomed Kendel Kitchen as a new member to our congregation based on his profession of faith and baptism on October 28, 2001.  There was a hayride and hot dog roast at the manse on November 2, 2001. Toy filled shoeboxes were sent to Samaritan’s Purse for Operation Christmas Child. This project is carried out under the direction of Franklin Graham, Director of Samaritan’s Purse. A surprise birthday party was held for Mr. Coy Grigsby on November 17, 2001 to celebrate his 93^rd birthday. Annual Thanksgiving Breakfast and Thanksgiving Service was held on November 22, 2001. Neal McKinney and helpers prepared the breakfast. We were saddened on December 1, 2001 by the death of Dr. David Early. He was a retired Veterinarian and again we were saddened on December 6, 2001 by the death of Mrs. Janie Stephenson and on December 7, 2001 by the death of Mr. Coy Grigsby.

2002. We welcomed Dana Crowell to fill our pulpit on Sunday, January 6, 2002. He has been bringing us the message the first Sunday of every month since. Margaret Inez Edgar, mother of our pastor, Charles Edgar, was called home to be with the Lord on Sunday, January 27, 2002.  March 17, 2002, Matt Slayton and Rex Walker as Deacons. Mat was ordained and Rex was installed. The 14^th Annual Easter Sunrise Service was held March 31, 2002; at 5:15 a.m. The Westminster Christian Academy Brass Band provided the music during the services, in the sanctuary and at the cemetery.  Coffee and Donuts were served in the Fellowship Hall afterwards. The Ordination and Installation of Dana Crowell as Associate Pastor of Prosperity ARP Church was May 18, 2002. Dana’s Mentor and former teacher, Pastor Jeff Meyers of Providence Reformed Presbyterian Church, St. Louis, Missouri preached the sermon, “The Gift of God & The Office of the Ministry.” We are grateful to God for calling Dana to be our Associate Pastor. Pastor Meyer preached for us on Sunday Morning, May 19, 2002. Vacation Bible School was held August 4 – 7, 2002 with the Closing Program and Ice Cream Supper on the 7^th. Veggie Tales was used for the Theme again this year. For the Craft project, 19 shoe boxes were gift wrapped to be filled later and sent to Samaritan’s Purse for Operation Christmas Child. These boxes are delivered to the underprivileged  around the world by Franklin Graham and his staff and numerous volunteers. We welcomed Terry and Lynn Gibbs and their two daughters on August 11, 2002. We held a joint Sunday School Class and the Gibbs Family told about their stay in Thailand. Our Special meetings started on Sunday Morning, August 11, 2002 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Frank van Dalen preaching. He preached again Sunday evening at 6:00 p.m. Nightly services were held the 12^th through 14^th at 7:30 p.m. Rev. van Dalen preached from the book of Revelation. The Annual Fish Dinner at Trotter’s Restaurant was on August 15, 2002. On September 26, 2002, Circle II was organized by the W.O.C with Charter Members being Brenda Coble, Kelley Crowell, Margie Ligon and Jeanne Pitts. Annual Thanksgiving Breakfast and Thanksgiving Service was held on November 28, 2002. Neal McKinney and helpers prepared the breakfast. December 8, 2002. The drive-way leading to the church and circles the parking area of the church has been paved. This is in preparation for the 175th celebration on May 31, 2003 and June 1, 2003.

 2003

February 8, 2003. A Valentine Party for the youth was given by the Youth Chairman. They addressed and signed valentine cards. February 21, 2003. A web site was published for Prosperity ARP Church of Taft. This web site is a front door to our church and is used to promote the 175^th celebration.  Some of the pages of this web site include the History of the Church, Pastor Charles Edgar and Associate Pastor Dana Crowell and a Flyer from the Organizing Committee to all invited guests. This Flyer was also mailed to everyone the committee had a mailing address for. The program flyer is included in this history. March 2, 2003. A Congregational Meeting was held and Deacon Ronald Derksen presented to the congregation a proposal to replace the roof shingles with a metal roof and the means of financing the replacement. The color was subject of discussion and the vote was ratified the next week and the majority of the members voted for the charcoal gray color. A roof replacement account was established, so donations could be made to minimize the bank note. The estimate was approximately $15,000.00. The final amount was $13,409.00. The roof account balance at the closing of the bank note was $5,000.00. Donations were given in memory of Geraldine Jennings a member of the congregation who passed away shortly before and Wayne Towry an Elder of the congregation who passed away in November 2002. The Memorial Fund contributed a sizable amount. April 15, 2003, the roof replacement was completed. April 20, 2003. The 15^th Annual Easter Sunrise Service was held at 5:50 a.m. The Westminster Christian Academy Brass Band provided the music during the services and at the cemetery, band members this year totaled 25. During the service in the sanctuary, special music was sung by Ann Chekelis and Himebook Brothers. Coffee and Donuts were served in the Fellowship Hall afterwards. April 30, 2003. A Family Night Supper was held with special guests, Bill and Kathy Warner, missionaries in Mexico. Prosperity supports Bill and Kathy with their work in Mexico. April and May, 2003. The congregation is preparing for the celebration. The church building has had a good spring cleaning and members took to the cemetery with the help of trustees from the county and cleaned the headstones and markers so that the names can be read again. Repairs have been made in the sanctuary and hallway. Signs for the direction to Prosperity have been put in place and painted. May 21, 2003. The United States Achievement Academy Recently recognized Laura Walker, a student at Fayetteville Junior High School, for outstanding academic excellence. Laura is the daughter of Rex and Carol Walker, members of Prosperity ARP. Laura was named the USAA National Award Winner for English. The Academy recognizes fewer than 10 percent of all American high school students.

Program Flyer 175^th Celebration

The week-end of May 31 and June 1, 2003, Prosperity ARP Church celebrates their 175th anniversary.

The officers and trustees of the Prosperity Cemetery Association feel that there are many who would like to attend both of these events. There are many who live far enough away that requiring two trips would be a great inconvenience, and in many cases would be prohibitive. We have therefore rescheduled our 2003 Decoration Day annual meeting to coincide with the church's celebration. 

The church has received inquiries from people planning to attend from as far away as Alaska. We expect to have an opportunity to meet many old friends and many new friends.

Program 175^th Celebration

Saturday, May 31, 2003

11:00 a.m.  - Prosperity Cemetery Association annual meeting, followed by our usual covered-dish dinner.

2:00 - 4:00 p.m. - Registration for the 175th Celebration, fellowship, genealogy and photo viewing and swapping (please bring any of your pictures to share!). A copier will be available.

4:00 - 5:00 p.m. - Eugene Brasher Chorale of Huntsville, Alabama will present a program.

6:00 - 7:00 p.m. - Chicken Finger Supper.

7:00 p.m. - ? - Introduction of speakers and guests and a review of Prosperity by Eugene Renegar, followed by various speakers including but not limited to Mr. David Sides, Moderator of Synod and Mr. Ralph Hood.

Sunday, June 1, 2003

11:00 a.m. Worship Service followed by a catered dinner on the grounds (+/- $6.00 per plate).

Many thanks to all  members of Prosperity who made this 175^th Celebration a great success. A few names come to mind: Mrs. Bernice Good, Mrs. Jamie Slayton, Mrs. Kay Derksen, Mrs. Beth Jennings, Mrs. Martha Lee Coble, Mrs. Peggy Wright, Mr. Ted Wright, Mrs. Frances Renegar, Mrs. Kelly Crowell,  Mrs. Joyce Edgar,  Rev. Charles Edgar and Rev. Dana Crowell,  Elder Lawson Good, Elder Eugene Renegar, Deacon Rex Walker, Deacon Ronald Derksen and all the many members and friends that have helped to make this celebration a success, Thank You for your help.

August 08, 2003  After more than 25 years at this location, a sign for the direction to our church and cemetery was removed at the intersection of Camargo road and Highway 110. This  was ordered by the TN State Highway Department. Previously a large sign from a different organization was placed at this location and obstructed the view of the intersection and therefore the State had no alternative but to order all signs removed.

August 09, 2003.  Prosperity ARP organized a HOBO Dinner and Hayride at the Manse for our members and invited guests. This evening was a great success. Mark and Doug Coble cooked the Hobo Dinner which was greatly appreciated by all attending this evening. Ronald Derksen and Rex Walker lined up the tractors and trailers for the Hayride. Everybody had a great time during the ride which was part in day-light and part in the early evening darkness. The attendance was more than we could have dreamed of. Total attendance 80. Thank you to Deacon Doug Coble and Elder Sam Renegar for the repairs and installation of the water faucet inside/outside the Manse. September 27, 2003.  A tour to the Amish Village in Ethridge, Tennessee is organized, which includes a Wagon Tour to the different farms which takes about 11/2 hour and a lunch in a restaurant at the entrance to the Amish Village. A signup list is published in the hall for the ones who would like to participate. This tour is organized for members and invited guest of Prosperity ARP Church. A group of 23 people from Prosperity ARP Church went in a caravan to Granny’s Welcome Center in Ethridge, Tennessee. There they went on a horse-drawn-wagon tour of the Amish Community. The wagon stopped at one house where the Amish were making Sorghum Molasses. Several people bought different size jugs of molasses. The wagon stopped at a couple of other houses where various ones bought several different items such as Peanut Brittle, Jelly and Trinkets. After the tour we went across the road to the Dutch Country Café and Store. Everyone enjoyed a delicious lunch there and several items were bought in the store including homemade bread and cookies. Everyone had a wonderful time.

September 3, 2003 Nancy (McFerrin) Cox spoke at the Wednesday night supper concerning her work in Belize.

An item of mention from last year’s history is that Wade and Martha Lee Coble celebrated their 50^th wedding anniversary on January 24^th.2003

September 27, 2003  A tour to the Amish Village in Ethridge, Tennessee is organized, which includes a Wagon Tour to the different farms which takes about 11/2 hour and a lunch in a restaurant at the entrance to the Amish Village. A signup list is published in the hall for the ones who would like to participate. This tour is organized for members and invited guest of Prosperity ARP Church. A group of 23 people from Prosperity ARP Church went in a caravan to Granny’s Welcome Center in Ethridge, Tennessee. There they went on a horse-drawn-wagon tour of the Amish Community. The wagon stopped at one house where the Amish were making Sorghum Molasses. Several people bought different size jugs of molasses. The wagon stopped at a couple of other houses where various ones bought several different items such as Peanut Brittle, Jelly and Trinkets. After the tour we went across the road to the Dutch Country Café and Store. Everyone enjoyed a delicious lunch there and several items were bought in the store including homemade bread and cookies. Everyone had a wonderful time.

September 28, 2003   A congregational meeting was held  at the request of  the Rev. Charles F. Edgar to make a change and retire him  from his full time pastoral duties after 27 years and be the Pastor Emeritus of Prosperity and that the Rev. C. Dana Crowell be appointed to Pastor of Prosperity ARP Church in Taft. The Congregation voted to accept his request.

October 19, 2003. We welcomed our newest members: Justin Richmond and Steve, Melanie, and Margaret (Maggie) McKamey and the the non-communicant children of Steve and Melanie: Stephanie, Elisabeth, Lonnie and Ruth.

October 24, 2003 The Rev. & Mrs. C. Dana Crowell organized a Chili Cook Off & Pie Baking Contest at the Manse. A total of about 45 - 50 members and guests attended this event and it was a great success. The winners of this event were: Chile Cook Off:  1. Brenda Coble, 2. Frances Renegar, 3. Carol Walker; Pie Baking Contest: 1. Debbie Motlow, 2. Maggie McKamey, 3. Frances Renegar. Everybody had a great time and the children enjoyed the Manse and the grounds for their plays. A thank you is in order to Deacon Rex Walker, who installed outside spotlights, a basketball goal and post, and a door in the garage storage room. This event will be an annual event for Prosperity ARP Church.

November 2003 Melanie McKamey had back surgery. She came to the manse from the hospital where Joyce Edgar helped care for her. The Women of the Church prepared food for Charlie, Joyce, Melanie and her family each night for supper.

November 16, 2003. After a long illness, Wade Coble a member of our congregation passed away. He and his family are long time members of our congregation. He had committed himself to the Lord.

November 27, 2003. The annual Thanksgiving Breakfast was held with a Thanksgiving Service afterwards. Mark Coble, Doug Coble, Neal McKinney and helpers prepared the breakfast and with the help from Beth Jennings, Brenda Coble and helpers this breakfast and service was a wonderful event. Approximately 50+ members and guest attended this event.

November 28, 2003 Mrs. Donnie Rowell, a long time member of Prosperity ARP Church died on November 28, 2003.

December 15, 2003. In the early morning Miss Eunice Byers passed away. She was 95 years old and a member of Prosperity ARP Church. She was a very strong supporter of the World Witness Mission field and will be dearly missed by all Missionaries and their families. Funeral services were held at Prosperity ARP Church on Saturday December 20, 2003. The WOC women prepared food for a meal at the church for her loved ones. Visitors from Arkansas (former students) came to pay their respect by attending the funeral services.

Mr. Claude Tackett, a former student from Arkansas, gave $150 in memory of Miss Eunice Byers. He specified the money be used for the youth and for items for the kitchen. A grill for the kitchen and Two NIV Bibles for Kay Derksen’s junior class were purchased. Mrs. Omaree Grigsby donated some lovely trays to be used in the kitchen.

     2004

January 14, 2004   A family night supper was held for three church members who had celebrated birthdays in January.

February 1, 2004   A baby box shower was given for Angie Coble

February 7, 2004.  A Valentine Party was held at Prosperity ARP Church. There were eight children and three adults in attendance. The children were: Hannah & Patrick Coble, Callie & Austin McNeal, McKinley, Eli & Millie Slayton and Laura Vance. The adults were: Martha Lee Coble, Kay Derksen and Jamie Slayton. Twenty-six Valentines were signed to send to the shut-in and the senior citizens of our congregation. Games were played with prizes given to the winners and refreshments were served. Every child received a prize. A good time was had by all.

February 8, 2004. After a long illness, Cecil Haley (C.H.) Yates passed away. He was 83  years old. Years ago, he had committed has life to the Lord and was a member of Prosperity ARP Church. Funeral services were held at Higgins Funeral Home on February 10th and burial was at the Lebanon Cemetery.

March 8, 2004. The last payment (#11) was made to pay off the Note by the bank for replacement of the roof. Replacement of the roof exceeded our General funds and the congregation agreed to take out a loan to pay this expense. Donations to the roof fund and interest of a Certificate of Deposit made it possible to retire the note with 11 payments from date of signing the loan.

March 10, 2004  A family night supper on March 10, 2004 was given to welcome special guest Mei Mei Edgar, adoped child of Chip and Beth Ann Edgar. Mei Mei came from China. Everyone enjoyed seeing her.

March 14, 2004  Homecoming Dinner was after morning services. There were several people who had gone to church at Prosperity as children present. A good day of fellowship was enjoyed with lots of delicious food.

March 14, 2004. Zhanna Feuchtinger was received into the church membership at Prosperity ARP Church. Zhanna is the wife of Joel Feuchtinger. She and her son Alex are originally from Russia.

April 04, 2004. Matt Ligon was installed as an Elder in Prosperity ARP Church, Taft, TN. Matt is the husband of Margie Edgar Ligon, father of Emma Ligon and son-in-law of Rev. & Mrs. Charles Edgar. Matt’s parents live in Muscle Shoals, AL and attend the ARP Church there.

April 10, 2004. Two new water coolers were installed in the hall. These coolers were paid for by the Memorial Fund.

April 11, 2004. After serving for many years as Clerk of Session at Prosperity ARP Church Taft, TN. Lawson Good has turned the office of Clerk of Session over to Steve Weber, Elder of Prosperity ARP Church.

April 11, 2004. The 16^th Annual Easter Sunrise Service was held at 6:10 a.m. The Westminster Christian Academy Brass Choir provided the music during the services and at the cemetery. Rev. Dana Crowell and Rev. Charles Edgar officiated. The service is modeled after the historic sunrise services at Old Salem, Winston Salem, North Carolina. During the service in the sanctuary, special music was sung by Kay Campbell and Ann Chekelis. Coffee and Donuts were served in the Fellowship Hall afterwards. Total members and guests in attendance were about 60.

April 11, 2004. Eric Scott McKinney, infant son of William and Sherry McKinney was baptized today by his Grandfather, Rev. Charles Edgar. Other family members in attendance for the baptism were both grandmothers, Mrs. Abbatt and Mrs. Edgar, two aunts and uncles and several cousins.

April 18, 2004  A baby box shower was given for Zhanna Feuchtinger. She was very thankful to all the ladies for their kindness.

April 21, 2004  Congratulations to Lawson and Bernice Good on their 48^th wedding anniversary.

April 25, 2004. Michael Joe Neal was baptized and became a member of Prosperity ARP Church. Michael is the fiancé of Angie Coble. They plan to be married at Prosperity on May 29, 2004.

May 13, 2004  Congratulations to Fred and Omaree Grigsby on their 51^st wedding anniversary.

May 23, 2004  Katie Beth Jennings was presented a Halley’s Bible Handbook on her graduation from Lincoln County High School.

May 27, 2004  Congratulations to Joel and Zhanna Feuchtinger on the birth of Nicholas Paul Joel Thomas Feuchtinger.

May 29, 2004  We extend our congratulations to Michael Neal and Angie Coble who were married this date.

June 6–9, 2004 The Vacation Bible School started each night at 6:30 p.m. There were 48 enrolled with 38 average attendance. The Wednesday Night Picnic Supper was attended by 62 people.

June 6 & 13, 2004  Special offerings were taken for the Lynn Gibbs family. Mrs. Gibbs passed away and her family need support to help with traveling expenses. 

June 27, 2004  Covenent Baptism of  Nicholas Paul Joel Thomas Feuchtinger, infant son of Joel and Zhanna Feuchtinger.

July 4,  2004  Congratulations to Rex and Carol Walker on their 33^rd wedding anniversary.

July 11-15,2004  Rev. David Hammond was the speaker for the Summer Preaching Conference. His very inspiring messages were taken from the book of Genesis on the life of Joseph.

July 2004  Congratulations to Lorne Coble on his graduation from Lincoln County High School.

July 11, 2004  Cathy Coble became the newest member to our congregation.

July 16, 2004  The annual Fish Fry was held at the church.

July 30, 2004  We were greatly saddened by the death of Nicholas Paul Joel Thomas Feuchtinger, infant son of Joel and Zhanna Feuchtinger. Our hearts and prayers go out to this family.

August 19, 2004  Mr. R. M. Gibson, a life long member of the Prosperity, Tennessee ARP church, entered into rest. We offer Christian sympathy to Gaynell Gibson and family.

August 2004  Rev. Charles Edgar and wife Joyce are beginning their 30^th year of service to the Lord at Prosperity ARP Church. We appreciate all they have done since coming to Prosperity.

September 25, 2004  The Annual HOBO Dinner was held at the church. There were 60+ people in attendance. The dinner, again, was a great success.

October 29, 2004  The 2^nd annual Chili cook-off and pie baking contest was held at the manse. The Best All Round Chili winners were: First Place, Kay Derksen: Second Place, Cathy Coble: Third Place, Jamie Slayton. The Best All Round Pie Baking winners were: First Place, Carol Walker: Second Place, Jewel Early: Third Place, Jamie Slayton.

October 31, 2004 We extend our Christian sympathy to the McElroy Family at the recent death of their father, Clyde McElroy.

November 7, 2004  Covenant Baptism of Madison Claire Neal, daughter of Michael and Angie Neal.

November 14 & 21, 2004 Operation Christmas Shoe Boxes were collected for Samaritan’s Purse. Mrs. Margie Ligon was in charge of the collection and shipping.

December 20, 2004 Annual Christmas Party with a short program by the children. Mrs. Carrol Walker was in charge of the musical part and Mrs. Kelly Crowell of the overall program.

2004/2005 Elders and Deacons

Elders		Ordained and Installed as Elder:
Lawson Good	Ordained and Installed  as Deacon January 22, 1961	February 23, 1975
Ralph Jones	Ordained and Installed as Deacon January 22, 1961	March 11, 1990
Eugene Renegar	Ordained and Installed as Deacon May 2, 1965	February 23, 1975
Eskin Jennings	Ordained and Installed as Deacon September 29, 1968	December 16, 1979
Lilburn Jennings	Ordained and Installed as Deacon September 29, 1968	December 08, 1985
Edward Byers	Ordained and Installed as Deacon April 18, 1954	January 22, 1961 Deceased: December 30, 1998
Wayne Towry	Ordained and Installed as Deacon December 16, 1979	December 08, 1985 Deceased: November 20, 2002
Steve Weber	Ordained and Installed as Deacon December 02, 1990	February 28, 1999
Matt Ligon	Installed as Elder	April 04, 2004
Deacons		Ordained and Installed as Deacon:
Frank Eslick	Ordained and Installed as Deacon	September 29, 1968
R.M. Gibson	Ordained and Installed as Deacon	October 2, 1977 Deceased: August 19, 2004
Doug Coble	Ordained and Installed as Deacon	March 11, 1990
Ronald Derksen	Ordained and Installed as Deacon	December 2, 1990
Jimmy Jennings	Ordained and Installed as Deacon	March 30 1997   till February 22, 2004
Joel Feuchtinger	Ordained and Installed as Deacon Rotated back as Deacon	March 30, 1997 February 22, 2004
Rex Walker	Installed as Deacon	March 17, 2002
Matt Slayton	Ordained and Installed as Deacon	March 17, 2002

   2005

February 5, 2005 The Annual Valentine’s Party was held at Prosperity ARP Church. There were children and adults in attendance. The children were: Megan Crowell, Sascha Feuchtinger, McKinley & Millie Slayton Annie Williams, Felicia and Tristan Leonard, Emma Ligon and Meg & Annie Willis. The adults were: Kellie Crowell, Margie Ligon  and Jamie Slayton. Valentines were signed to send to the shut-in and the senior citizens of our congregation.  

February 13, 2005 The Annual Congregational Meeting was held at the Church.

February 18, 2005 The replacement of both entrance doors were finalized. This project has been in the making for the last 6 months. During this time the congregation was kept informed about the progress. Due to the size of the doors it took the factory extra time to give quotes and availability to the Diaconate.

March 27,2005 The 17^th Annual Easter Sunrise Service was held at Prosperity ARP Church at 5:30 a.m. The Westminster Christian Academy Music Students provided the music during the services and at the cemetery. Rev. Dana Crowell and Rev. Charles Edgar officiated. The service is modeled after the historic sunrise services at Old Salem, Winston Salem, North Carolina. During the service in the sanctuary, special music was sung by Anne Chelekis, Zhanna Feuchtinger and the Fayetteville A.R.P. Choir. Coffee and Donuts were served in the Fellowship Hall afterwards. Total members and guests in attendance were about 80.

May 8, 2005, The Rev. Charles Edgar officiated the Covenant Baptism of his grandson John Tyler McCain Ligon the son of Matt and Margie Ligon during the hour of worship.

May 31 – June 3, 2005  The Vacation Bible School started each night at 6:00 p.m. There were approx. 35 enrolled with average attendance of 25. The Wednesday Night Picnic Supper was attended by  approx. 40 people.

June 26-29, 2005  The Rev. David Hammond was the speaker for the Summer Preaching Conference. His very inspiring messages were taken from the book of Exodus 35, 36, 37 and 38.

June 30, 2005  The annual Fish Fry was held at the church.

July 17, 2005  The Covenant Baptism of Ivan Noel Feuchtinger was held, infant son of Joel and Zhanna Feuchtinger. Officiating Rev. Dana Crowell.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Completion of this history is a work in progress.

We wish to acknowledge the following sources for this history:  Associate Reformed Presbyterian Centennial and Sesquicentennial histories, Session records and Women's Society records at Prosperity Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church and the Young Peoples Christian Union history of 1956.

Our appreciation is expressed to Elder Lawson Good and Elder Eugene Renegar for the research of records and Deacon Ronald Derksen for completing this history and publishing this information and all others who had any part in the writing of this history.

Copyright © 2003-2007[R-D]. All rights reserved.
Revised: 01/04/07