Erin Churches
Erin Churches
Early History
Although 1839 was the date when the New Connection Methodist Church established a congregation in Erin, the roots of religious teaching go back much farther. The first settlers came to Erin Township in 1820 to a virtual wilderness, but soon trees were cut down, log houses were built and land gradually cleared.
Saddle bag preachers or circuit riders, travelling from place to place on horseback, supplied the spiritual need of these early settlers who sometimes walked miles to get to the place of worship.
The first service was held in a log school house on the 9th line, and the Presbyterian preachers were the first to minister to the Christian spiritual needs of the people. Soon, however, the Methodist Church sent their ministers, and for some time they alternated with the Presbyterians in the school house.
In the 1830's the settlers decided to erect a United Church jointly with the Methodists, Baptists, Presbyterians and Anglicans, to provide a place to worship. A twelve foot square room was built in the centre of Erin Village, and all the settlers looked to this place as their spiritual home for a few years.
Saddle bag preachers or circuit riders, travelling from place to place on horseback, supplied the spiritual need of these early settlers who sometimes walked miles to get to the place of worship.
The first service was held in a log school house on the 9th line, and the Presbyterian preachers were the first to minister to the Christian spiritual needs of the people. Soon, however, the Methodist Church sent their ministers, and for some time they alternated with the Presbyterians in the school house.
In the 1830's the settlers decided to erect a United Church jointly with the Methodists, Baptists, Presbyterians and Anglicans, to provide a place to worship. A twelve foot square room was built in the centre of Erin Village, and all the settlers looked to this place as their spiritual home for a few years.
Methodism
When the New Connection Methodists organized in 1839, Erin was an appointment on the Caledon Circuit, with the Rev. John Shilton as minister.The Wesleyan Methodists first mention Erin in the report of the Guelph circuit in 1844, when the minister's report states, "The fields of labour in which we were stationed last conference, is very extensive and highly interesting, viz: the townships of Guelph, Eramosa, Erin, Nichol, Garafraxa, Woolwich, Waterloo, Wesley and Peel."
A Union Church was built on Main Street in 1849, and was used by the two branches of Methodism and the Associate Church of Scotland until1858. Erin became a circuit in 1850, with a senior and junior minister, namely Rev. William Steer and John L. Kerr. In his report in 1851, Mr. Steer stated "This field of labour includes the Township of Erin, Garafraxa, and the rear of Chinguacousy. In several places we have made new appointments, also have been invited to reach into other places which we have not yet visited, but intend to do so shortly."
In 1858 the Wesleyans built an eight-sided church on the present site of the United Church. The New Connection Methodists erected their church at the corner of Main and Water Street. This church was burned, and the congregation then worshipped in the \Vesleyan building.
In July 1870 the concrete octagonal Wesleyan church was burned, and was rebuilt and opened in January 1871. It was all paid for except $150.00 including a debt of $320.00 that had been on the previous building, which, according to records, had cost upwards of 400 pounds.
When the fourteen divisions of Methodism united in 1884, this church became the Methodist Church of Canada, and Erin was put on a circuit consisting of Erin, Ballinafad, Coningsby, Caledon, Credit Forks and Belfountain. The minister lived in Erin, and had a student to assist him.
In 1925, the Methodist, Presbyterian and Congregational Churches merged to form the United Church of Canada. Some of the Presbyterians chose to remain with their own denomination, but many were welcomed into the union, and the Methodist building became the United Church.
A Union Church was built on Main Street in 1849, and was used by the two branches of Methodism and the Associate Church of Scotland until1858. Erin became a circuit in 1850, with a senior and junior minister, namely Rev. William Steer and John L. Kerr. In his report in 1851, Mr. Steer stated "This field of labour includes the Township of Erin, Garafraxa, and the rear of Chinguacousy. In several places we have made new appointments, also have been invited to reach into other places which we have not yet visited, but intend to do so shortly."
In 1858 the Wesleyans built an eight-sided church on the present site of the United Church. The New Connection Methodists erected their church at the corner of Main and Water Street. This church was burned, and the congregation then worshipped in the \Vesleyan building.
In July 1870 the concrete octagonal Wesleyan church was burned, and was rebuilt and opened in January 1871. It was all paid for except $150.00 including a debt of $320.00 that had been on the previous building, which, according to records, had cost upwards of 400 pounds.
When the fourteen divisions of Methodism united in 1884, this church became the Methodist Church of Canada, and Erin was put on a circuit consisting of Erin, Ballinafad, Coningsby, Caledon, Credit Forks and Belfountain. The minister lived in Erin, and had a student to assist him.
In 1925, the Methodist, Presbyterian and Congregational Churches merged to form the United Church of Canada. Some of the Presbyterians chose to remain with their own denomination, but many were welcomed into the union, and the Methodist building became the United Church.
Junior Choir
Early in the year of 1959, Jacquie Saul, one of the senior choir members, gathered some of the children together to form a junior choir. They sang in church for the first time on Mother's day, May 10, Mrs. Griffiths was organist then. By Christmas they were decked out in white gowns, the boys all in white and the girls in white with red bows. Mrs. Snelgove helped with it, and by 1967 they had a rousing junior choir of eighteen members of both boys and girls, with Anna Aitken at the organ. It was very successful until about 1973.
When Rob Douglas took over the duties of organist and choir director in 1983, he re-organized the junior choir with children of nine to eleven years of age. In 1985 Bruce Nuhn carried on with it for two years. Some members of the U.C.W. made new choir gowns for the children, which enhance the appearance as they sing on a Sunday morning.
Mrs. Bonnie Schotsch came as organist and choir director in September of 1987, and continued with the junior choir. It is a joy to listen to them singing. The junior and senior choirs have joined at various times in singing anthems on Sunday, and participated in the Festival of Christmas music in St. John Brebeuf Catholic Church in 1987.
May the children continue to donate their musical talents for the enjoyment of others.
When Rob Douglas took over the duties of organist and choir director in 1983, he re-organized the junior choir with children of nine to eleven years of age. In 1985 Bruce Nuhn carried on with it for two years. Some members of the U.C.W. made new choir gowns for the children, which enhance the appearance as they sing on a Sunday morning.
Mrs. Bonnie Schotsch came as organist and choir director in September of 1987, and continued with the junior choir. It is a joy to listen to them singing. The junior and senior choirs have joined at various times in singing anthems on Sunday, and participated in the Festival of Christmas music in St. John Brebeuf Catholic Church in 1987.
May the children continue to donate their musical talents for the enjoyment of others.
The Senior Choir
The Erin United Church choir has always had a series of faithful, dedicated members, who give of their time and talents each week to provide much pleasure to the service through their musical renditions.
Reverend Jack Gillap said that in his term at Erin, there was a very lively choir with Mary Justice as choir leader and Anna Aitken as organist. They were a very active group, singing a
couple of Easter cantatas, among other things. They did a production of Johnnie Cash- The Holy Land, with a missionary emphasis. Mr. Gillap played the drums and the mandolin.
Mary Justice was the untiring organizer. It was put on as a concert on Sunday evening for two consecutive years. They also went to Acton Presbyterian Church with the Johnnie Cash production.
Reverend Jack Gillap said that in his term at Erin, there was a very lively choir with Mary Justice as choir leader and Anna Aitken as organist. They were a very active group, singing a
couple of Easter cantatas, among other things. They did a production of Johnnie Cash- The Holy Land, with a missionary emphasis. Mr. Gillap played the drums and the mandolin.
Mary Justice was the untiring organizer. It was put on as a concert on Sunday evening for two consecutive years. They also went to Acton Presbyterian Church with the Johnnie Cash production.
When Reverend Neill McRae was here he once remarked that the choir was a delight. Different cantatas have been done since, and in 1986, the choir gave leadership for the mass choir at the Erinfest Ecumenical Service at the arena.
For a number of years, the choir has been invited to sing for the annual Remembrance Day Ecumenical service, which was always held at Erin District High School until a couple of years ago, when it was changed to the Legion Hall.
For two years the choir has participated in the Festival of Christmas music in St. John Brebeuf Catholic Church, with duets, solos and anthems. The mortar boards and black choir gowns with white collars,have given way to colourful green gowns and gold collars, and no hats at all.
We are grateful for the choir leaders and organists through the years, who play such an important role, and we also appreciate the efforts of those choir members who were ready to step in and keep things running when gaps appeared in the system.
Kathleen Kirkwood was one of those ever ready to fill in as organist or choir leader when needed. Phyllis Dafoe upheld the choir for six months as leader between regular directors, and Marilyn Reilly is ever willing to come to the rescue at the organ. These volunteers are very necessary for the survival of the choir.
May this musical group continue to unite their voices in praise, and to give leadership to the congregation in the singing of the hymns.
For a number of years, the choir has been invited to sing for the annual Remembrance Day Ecumenical service, which was always held at Erin District High School until a couple of years ago, when it was changed to the Legion Hall.
For two years the choir has participated in the Festival of Christmas music in St. John Brebeuf Catholic Church, with duets, solos and anthems. The mortar boards and black choir gowns with white collars,have given way to colourful green gowns and gold collars, and no hats at all.
We are grateful for the choir leaders and organists through the years, who play such an important role, and we also appreciate the efforts of those choir members who were ready to step in and keep things running when gaps appeared in the system.
Kathleen Kirkwood was one of those ever ready to fill in as organist or choir leader when needed. Phyllis Dafoe upheld the choir for six months as leader between regular directors, and Marilyn Reilly is ever willing to come to the rescue at the organ. These volunteers are very necessary for the survival of the choir.
May this musical group continue to unite their voices in praise, and to give leadership to the congregation in the singing of the hymns.
Organists and Choir Directors
Sunday School
Sunday School was looked on as an important part of Sunday
service, and was always held at 10 a.m., before service at 11
a.m., until1968 when the decision was made to have Sunday
School during the church service. It was thought this would be
easier for the children from out of town to come in with their
parents when they come to church. The young folk now come
to church, and after the minister tells the children's story, they
go to their classes.
The Sunday School picnic was always the highlight of the year.
For many years it was held in Stanley Park, where parents
could usually be persuaded to take the boat for a row on the
water, with three or four happy youngsters on board. Then,
there was the merry-go-round, and races for all ages,
culminating in a bountiful picnic lunch on tables under the
trees, or, in case of rain, in the pavilion.
service, and was always held at 10 a.m., before service at 11
a.m., until1968 when the decision was made to have Sunday
School during the church service. It was thought this would be
easier for the children from out of town to come in with their
parents when they come to church. The young folk now come
to church, and after the minister tells the children's story, they
go to their classes.
The Sunday School picnic was always the highlight of the year.
For many years it was held in Stanley Park, where parents
could usually be persuaded to take the boat for a row on the
water, with three or four happy youngsters on board. Then,
there was the merry-go-round, and races for all ages,
culminating in a bountiful picnic lunch on tables under the
trees, or, in case of rain, in the pavilion.
In the 1960's, acquiring the name of a congregational picnic, an
outdoor service was held at the farm of Norris and Marjorie
Sinclair, with lunch and picnic following. In due time, this was
transferred to Forrester's Park, Belfountain, with the usual
lunch, games and races.
At a Christmas Sunday evening service in 1961, an organ recital
was presented by Mrs. Gordon Harris, followed by a Christmas
drama, "Why the Chimes Rang", by the boys and girls of the
Sunday School, under the direction of Mrs. Marion Chambers,
Cyril Little and Arthur Brecken.
When Adeline Smith taught a class of eleven year olds, she said
she loved it, and they took trips to Toronto museums, the zoo
and the Parliament Buildings. One day when they got off the
train and walked up Bay Street, they got mixed up in a crowd of
people welcoming the Maple Leafs for winning the Stanley
Cup. She said they all escaped.
The Christian Education committee works in harmony with the
Sunday School, and to work out a problem obtaining teachers,
they divided the year into three teaching terms. Each teacher
taking one term with a supply list of five helpers for each term.
This works quite well, resulting in an active, friendly and lively
set of classes on Sunday, and attendance is good.
The Sunday School participates in the Christmas church
service, a monthly food bank for needy families and a White
Gift Sunday.
Lydia McArthur was secretary and treasurer of the Sunday
School for twenty years. Others who later served as treasurer
are Linda Kirkwood, Adeline Smith, Arthur Brecken, Dwight
Cameron and Richard Armstrong. Sometimes the superintendent was treasurer also.
outdoor service was held at the farm of Norris and Marjorie
Sinclair, with lunch and picnic following. In due time, this was
transferred to Forrester's Park, Belfountain, with the usual
lunch, games and races.
At a Christmas Sunday evening service in 1961, an organ recital
was presented by Mrs. Gordon Harris, followed by a Christmas
drama, "Why the Chimes Rang", by the boys and girls of the
Sunday School, under the direction of Mrs. Marion Chambers,
Cyril Little and Arthur Brecken.
When Adeline Smith taught a class of eleven year olds, she said
she loved it, and they took trips to Toronto museums, the zoo
and the Parliament Buildings. One day when they got off the
train and walked up Bay Street, they got mixed up in a crowd of
people welcoming the Maple Leafs for winning the Stanley
Cup. She said they all escaped.
The Christian Education committee works in harmony with the
Sunday School, and to work out a problem obtaining teachers,
they divided the year into three teaching terms. Each teacher
taking one term with a supply list of five helpers for each term.
This works quite well, resulting in an active, friendly and lively
set of classes on Sunday, and attendance is good.
The Sunday School participates in the Christmas church
service, a monthly food bank for needy families and a White
Gift Sunday.
Lydia McArthur was secretary and treasurer of the Sunday
School for twenty years. Others who later served as treasurer
are Linda Kirkwood, Adeline Smith, Arthur Brecken, Dwight
Cameron and Richard Armstrong. Sometimes the superintendent was treasurer also.
Sunday School Superintendents
Women's Association (WA)
There was a strong Women's Association formed in Erin with the constitution of the United Church of Canada in 1925. The W.A. worked in the local congregation, and its prime function was fund raising for the care and upkeep of the church. They concentrated on local needs of helping furnish the church and parsonage, and aided many worthwhile causes. They were diligent workers.
The mother and daughter banquets from 1957 to 1961 were served by the W.A., to 115 to 130 mothers and daughters, also the father and son banquets were served to a capacity attendance.
Records show that the ladies operated a booth at Erin Fair onward from 1939. They also had fowl suppers and concerts for many years previous to that.
Cleaning and painting bees were held in the parsonage before each new minister arrived, the refrigerator was stocked with food, and a welcoming committee was there to greet the family and render assistance.
When possible, the minister's wife was consulted about the decorating, but more often than not, she was resigned to living with the women's choice. Mrs. Snelgrove once said that she always wanted a red ceiling, but was afraid to ask, so when they built their retirement home she got her red ceiling.
In 1960, the W.A. held a family night when the children of the Mission Band and Explorers put on the program. These evenings were always enjoyed, as it gave an insight into what these groups were learning.
The mother and daughter banquets from 1957 to 1961 were served by the W.A., to 115 to 130 mothers and daughters, also the father and son banquets were served to a capacity attendance.
Records show that the ladies operated a booth at Erin Fair onward from 1939. They also had fowl suppers and concerts for many years previous to that.
Cleaning and painting bees were held in the parsonage before each new minister arrived, the refrigerator was stocked with food, and a welcoming committee was there to greet the family and render assistance.
When possible, the minister's wife was consulted about the decorating, but more often than not, she was resigned to living with the women's choice. Mrs. Snelgrove once said that she always wanted a red ceiling, but was afraid to ask, so when they built their retirement home she got her red ceiling.
In 1960, the W.A. held a family night when the children of the Mission Band and Explorers put on the program. These evenings were always enjoyed, as it gave an insight into what these groups were learning.
Women's Missionary Society (WMS)
A Women's Missionary Society was formed in 1928, with Mrs. Charles Jolliffe as the first president. Mrs. Foreman followed in 1930 and strengthened this group. They studied about the church in far away places, sent bales of clothes and other comforts to help the needy, and raised money to support this work.
It was a strong study-oriented group, organized nationwide. They raised money for projects of their own choosing, to further the mission work of the church.
An evening auxiliary of the W.M.S. was organized in 1948. Mrs. Adeline Smith was president, and Mrs. Archie Douglas was nominated secretary.
In 1950 the mission study group of the afternoon unit began meeting with the evening auxiliary group.
The W.M.S. held a family night in 1961, with a large attendance of junior and senior C.G.I.T. girls and Mission Band, and their mothers. The program was put on by the girls demonstrating their work in missions, then for many years the Women's Association and the Women's Missionary Society shared the same meeting time.
It was a strong study-oriented group, organized nationwide. They raised money for projects of their own choosing, to further the mission work of the church.
An evening auxiliary of the W.M.S. was organized in 1948. Mrs. Adeline Smith was president, and Mrs. Archie Douglas was nominated secretary.
In 1950 the mission study group of the afternoon unit began meeting with the evening auxiliary group.
The W.M.S. held a family night in 1961, with a large attendance of junior and senior C.G.I.T. girls and Mission Band, and their mothers. The program was put on by the girls demonstrating their work in missions, then for many years the Women's Association and the Women's Missionary Society shared the same meeting time.
United Church Women (U.C.W.)
A new Women's organization was formed on January 1, 1962, when the two existing groups that had long been active in the United Church, combined to form the United Church Women (U.C.W.).
The merger of the W.A. and W.M.S. in many ways, made a lot of sense. It saved time and energy, as the same members often belonged to both organizations.
The merger of the W.A. and W.M.S. in many ways, made a lot of sense. It saved time and energy, as the same members often belonged to both organizations.
Names mentioned in the minutes of the first meeting were: Pauline Snelgrove, Helen Gillespie, Sarah Kitely, Annie Maveal, Betty Jean Finley, Adeline Smith, Mary Justice, Ada Burt, Jean Sloan, Marjorie Sinclair, Bea Montgomery,
Kathleen Kirkwood, Emily Smith and Dorothy Baird.
Mrs. Gillespie was the first president, and Emily Smith was the first secretary. Adeline Smith was supply secretary for the U.C.W. when it was formed, until near the time she left Erin in 1976. Adeline was one of the many willing and dedicated women giving service wherever it was needed.
The U.C.W. was divided into three units. The membership the first year was: Unit 1- 28 members, Unit 2-25 members, Unit 3 - 18 members. They are now called the Morning Friendship Group, the Afternoon Unit, and the Evening Group, with a general executive over all.
A large part of the U.C.W. service is raising money to help their own church, the community, and projects further afield. The money is raised by catering to wedding and anniversary dinners, funeral lunches, bazaars, food booths, quilting, rummage sales and many other activities.
At the International Plowing Match at Caledon in 1963, they ran a food booth for five days, and were always in charge of the food booth at Erin Fair until the Official Board took it over in 1983.
The U.C.W. continued with the mother and daughter banquets, as the W.A. had done, with a short program following the dinner, also the father and son banquet, up until 1974.
Kathleen Kirkwood, Emily Smith and Dorothy Baird.
Mrs. Gillespie was the first president, and Emily Smith was the first secretary. Adeline Smith was supply secretary for the U.C.W. when it was formed, until near the time she left Erin in 1976. Adeline was one of the many willing and dedicated women giving service wherever it was needed.
The U.C.W. was divided into three units. The membership the first year was: Unit 1- 28 members, Unit 2-25 members, Unit 3 - 18 members. They are now called the Morning Friendship Group, the Afternoon Unit, and the Evening Group, with a general executive over all.
A large part of the U.C.W. service is raising money to help their own church, the community, and projects further afield. The money is raised by catering to wedding and anniversary dinners, funeral lunches, bazaars, food booths, quilting, rummage sales and many other activities.
At the International Plowing Match at Caledon in 1963, they ran a food booth for five days, and were always in charge of the food booth at Erin Fair until the Official Board took it over in 1983.
The U.C.W. continued with the mother and daughter banquets, as the W.A. had done, with a short program following the dinner, also the father and son banquet, up until 1974.
The women have always been a big supporter of the church, giving a sizeable donation every year, as well as helping to finance special projects as they arise. They supplied money for the new gas furnace, gave donations to help pay for the new addition, helped finance the minister's study when it was built, and fixed up the room under the study. They bought a piano from the Hillsburgh United Church auction. When the roof of the church was repaired, the men donated the labour, but the U.C.W. donated the money.
Two of the mission projects they support each year are the Fred Victor Mission and Victor Home for Women.
The U.C.W. celebrated its 25th anniversary in 1987. The Ladies Guild of All Saints Anglican Church catered for a delicious hot meal, which was followed by entertainment and slides of past activities of the U .C.W.,
Two of the mission projects they support each year are the Fred Victor Mission and Victor Home for Women.
The U.C.W. celebrated its 25th anniversary in 1987. The Ladies Guild of All Saints Anglican Church catered for a delicious hot meal, which was followed by entertainment and slides of past activities of the U .C.W.,
The women continue their good works, and can always be counted on for assistance whenever emergencies arise.
Mission Band - Messengers
A Mission Band was organized in 1933, to educate the children of the need to share with young people in other lands. They learned about children in far away places, how they live, work and play.
Mrs. Eugene Crosby and Alma Corbett were the leaders, and they had about ten boys and girls. The met at the public school in the Physical Culture room. They put on a skit in the church for the parents on "Why Violets Have Golden Hearts". The
children were dressed as flowers trying to look their best for when the prince came. But it was the little violet with the kind heart, who, forgetful of self, chose to help someone in trouble, who won the favour of the prince.
Mrs. Crosby and Alma gave it up in 1935, and when Rev. and Mr. T. J. Rees came to Erin in 1941, Mrs. Rees re-organized the Mission Band, and was leader while she was here. Mrs. Snelgrove got the children together during church service in 1956, and Mission Band was again underway, with Doris Fines as leader. By 1959, it had grown to 12 to 17 boys and girls, and Linda Ferguson volunteered to assist with the teaching for three years, from 1961 to 1963. Adeline Smith helped with the younger ones in 1965, then Marietta Marshall
assisted Doris for three years, 1966 to 1968, while Joan Marshall took charge of the Baby Band.
In the meantime, the Mission Band received a name change, and became known as Messengers. They met twice a month on Sunday during church service. At the end of each year of study, they demonstrated what they had learned, to the congregation during a church service. At that time they presented their mission givings to the Mission and Service treasurer.
Mrs. Eugene Crosby and Alma Corbett were the leaders, and they had about ten boys and girls. The met at the public school in the Physical Culture room. They put on a skit in the church for the parents on "Why Violets Have Golden Hearts". The
children were dressed as flowers trying to look their best for when the prince came. But it was the little violet with the kind heart, who, forgetful of self, chose to help someone in trouble, who won the favour of the prince.
Mrs. Crosby and Alma gave it up in 1935, and when Rev. and Mr. T. J. Rees came to Erin in 1941, Mrs. Rees re-organized the Mission Band, and was leader while she was here. Mrs. Snelgrove got the children together during church service in 1956, and Mission Band was again underway, with Doris Fines as leader. By 1959, it had grown to 12 to 17 boys and girls, and Linda Ferguson volunteered to assist with the teaching for three years, from 1961 to 1963. Adeline Smith helped with the younger ones in 1965, then Marietta Marshall
assisted Doris for three years, 1966 to 1968, while Joan Marshall took charge of the Baby Band.
In the meantime, the Mission Band received a name change, and became known as Messengers. They met twice a month on Sunday during church service. At the end of each year of study, they demonstrated what they had learned, to the congregation during a church service. At that time they presented their mission givings to the Mission and Service treasurer.
In 1969, the Sunday School, which was always at 10 a.m. before the church service, began meeting at 11 a.m. during the church time, and the Messengers was phased out. Doris then taught missions in the Sunday School once a month for three years.
The Messengers were formed again in 1983 under the leadership of Wendy McDougall. They met on Tuesdays after school, hut because of so many other activities for children these days, attendance dwindled by 1986, so they were unable to carry on.
The Messengers were formed again in 1983 under the leadership of Wendy McDougall. They met on Tuesdays after school, hut because of so many other activities for children these days, attendance dwindled by 1986, so they were unable to carry on.
Youth Group
The Youth Group was started in the fall of 1983 by Paul Clarkson. In the beginning the group met Friday nights at Brisbane Public School for sports, and at the church for other activities, and also at members' homes for video, skating and fun nights. They help out each year at the United Church food booth at Erin Fair, and go carolling at the Christmas season.
In the summer of 1984, they went to Wonderland for a day. When the minister was at the annual meeting of Toronto Conference, the Youth group very capably conducted the church service. The young people also sold church calendars.
Erin United Church Model T's was the name they adopted in 1985. They designed and purchased group shirts, went camping at Rockwood Conservation area, attended a rally at Brampton, and hosted a youth dance for Dufferin-Peel Presbytery.
They showed their culinary skill by making pancakes and serving them on the day of the annual church meeting, and made a banner for International Youth Year to take to Toronto Conference, which was later hung in Erin church.
In 1986, they attended a youth rally, and again conducted a church service, Paul Clarkson was aided greatly in his leadership by various parents, and also members of the group.
Paul was married in 1986 to Donalee Potter, and in January 1987 Paul and Donalee, joined by John and Laura Pickett, formed a leadership team for a re-vitalized Youth Group.
They had sports nights, Bible studies, bowling and movie nights. They attended youth rallies in Brampton and in June twelve teens went camping at Meher's cottage for a week-end.
Paul and Donalee moved from Erin in 1987 for Paul to continue his studies for the ministry, and the present group is led by John and Laura Pickett and Greg and Liz Thomas. They have increased in number to approximately fifteen members.
These young adults are very visible in the church. They are always there to lend a hand when needed. This year they served lunch at the annual church meeting, and helped out at various fundraising activities, such as the turkey dinner and the car wash. Many of these teens are Sunday School teachers or helpers in the nursery.
We are proud of these young people. The future of the church depends upon them, and we are fortunate to have so many active and fine Christian teens at Erin United.
The leaders say they feel privileged and proud to be able to work with them, and as they learn about the Bible and the Christian way of life, they form close friendships, which is rewarding and very worthwhile in itself.
In the summer of 1984, they went to Wonderland for a day. When the minister was at the annual meeting of Toronto Conference, the Youth group very capably conducted the church service. The young people also sold church calendars.
Erin United Church Model T's was the name they adopted in 1985. They designed and purchased group shirts, went camping at Rockwood Conservation area, attended a rally at Brampton, and hosted a youth dance for Dufferin-Peel Presbytery.
They showed their culinary skill by making pancakes and serving them on the day of the annual church meeting, and made a banner for International Youth Year to take to Toronto Conference, which was later hung in Erin church.
In 1986, they attended a youth rally, and again conducted a church service, Paul Clarkson was aided greatly in his leadership by various parents, and also members of the group.
Paul was married in 1986 to Donalee Potter, and in January 1987 Paul and Donalee, joined by John and Laura Pickett, formed a leadership team for a re-vitalized Youth Group.
They had sports nights, Bible studies, bowling and movie nights. They attended youth rallies in Brampton and in June twelve teens went camping at Meher's cottage for a week-end.
Paul and Donalee moved from Erin in 1987 for Paul to continue his studies for the ministry, and the present group is led by John and Laura Pickett and Greg and Liz Thomas. They have increased in number to approximately fifteen members.
These young adults are very visible in the church. They are always there to lend a hand when needed. This year they served lunch at the annual church meeting, and helped out at various fundraising activities, such as the turkey dinner and the car wash. Many of these teens are Sunday School teachers or helpers in the nursery.
We are proud of these young people. The future of the church depends upon them, and we are fortunate to have so many active and fine Christian teens at Erin United.
The leaders say they feel privileged and proud to be able to work with them, and as they learn about the Bible and the Christian way of life, they form close friendships, which is rewarding and very worthwhile in itself.
Explorers
In 1958 and 1959, there was a very active group of Explorers, with Marjorie Wilkie leading 25 girls. They did aluminum handcraft, flowercraft, and other handwork, and went carolling at Christmas, but the records fail to show how long the group stayed together.
In 1985 a new band of Explorers was organized, with Angie Arnold the enthusiastic leader. The next year Ann Jerrard took charge of the group of seven girls. They visited the Senior Citizens apartment on February 14th to deliver Valentine greetings and cookies the girls had made, and church calendars were sold to make money for the Mission and Service fund.
The group studied about the native people of the world, also the seasons of Lent and Easter, learning the meaning of symbols associated with each, and they created decorative Easter eggs and delivered them as Easter gifts in the seniors' apartments.
The Explorers now have five members in 1988, and the mission study was the comparison of farming in Canada with Tanzania and Kenya. They again made Easter gifts for the seniors, and are raising funds to donate to Mission and Service.
The group studied about the native people of the world, also the seasons of Lent and Easter, learning the meaning of symbols associated with each, and they created decorative Easter eggs and delivered them as Easter gifts in the seniors' apartments.
The Explorers now have five members in 1988, and the mission study was the comparison of farming in Canada with Tanzania and Kenya. They again made Easter gifts for the seniors, and are raising funds to donate to Mission and Service.
C.G.I.T.
C.G.I.T. was a joint venture between three churches. Mona Yair, the wife of the Presbyterian student minister, was the founder of the group in 1951, at the request of some of the girls. Adeline Smith of Erin United Church, was the mainstay of the group for four years, with Joyce Leitch helping occasionally. Freda Hull was a leader from the Anglican Church.
The C.G.I.T. girls took part in the Christmas Eve Candlelight service of Erin United, and decorated the church for Christmas. The W.M.S. had a family night in 1961, at which there was a large attendance of junior and senior C.G.I.T. girls, who helped with the program along with the Mission Band boys and girls. Adeline Smith and Joyce Leitch were leaders at that time.
In 1963 the group was led by Betty Jean Finley, Mrs. H. Smith and Mrs. J. Wilson. When Reverend George Howse came to Erin United in 1966, Mrs. Howse took over the leadership until 1970. They saved stamps to help the lepers, and donated soap for immigrants. A bake sale brought in some money, and they sponsored a pot luck supper.
After the C.G.I.T. disbanded, there was a lull, then the Girl Guides were formed with members from all denominations.
The C.G.I.T. girls took part in the Christmas Eve Candlelight service of Erin United, and decorated the church for Christmas. The W.M.S. had a family night in 1961, at which there was a large attendance of junior and senior C.G.I.T. girls, who helped with the program along with the Mission Band boys and girls. Adeline Smith and Joyce Leitch were leaders at that time.
In 1963 the group was led by Betty Jean Finley, Mrs. H. Smith and Mrs. J. Wilson. When Reverend George Howse came to Erin United in 1966, Mrs. Howse took over the leadership until 1970. They saved stamps to help the lepers, and donated soap for immigrants. A bake sale brought in some money, and they sponsored a pot luck supper.
After the C.G.I.T. disbanded, there was a lull, then the Girl Guides were formed with members from all denominations.
Tri-M Club
The young married people wanted to start a couples club around 1957, but didn't want to restrict only to married couples, so came up with the name Tri-M, which stood for Mr., Mrs., and Miss.
They had lots of fun. They had corn roasts in the fall at Forrester's Park, Belfountain. There was an Easter bonnet night, with many real creations from crepe paper, and they went to Kitchener one night to see the Ice Capades.
Before Christmas they sang Christmas carols around town to the seniors and shut-ins, who were quite enthusiastic in their praise. Mrs. Snelgrove had a pot of stew ready at the church when the hungry carolers returned.
One evening in 1961, the Tri-M members were invited to the Couples Club in Hillsburgh, where they put on a skit of a mock wedding. A Convocation evening was held at the home of Dave and Pam Wright, for a couple who were moving away. It was Cum Laude, and Arthur Brecken conducted the ceremony in Latin. It took a bit of finesse to get the robes and caps into the house un-noticed by the "honoured" couple.
The club's regular meeting consisted of devotions, program and lunch, with everyone taking their turn in all categories.
They had lots of fun. They had corn roasts in the fall at Forrester's Park, Belfountain. There was an Easter bonnet night, with many real creations from crepe paper, and they went to Kitchener one night to see the Ice Capades.
Before Christmas they sang Christmas carols around town to the seniors and shut-ins, who were quite enthusiastic in their praise. Mrs. Snelgrove had a pot of stew ready at the church when the hungry carolers returned.
One evening in 1961, the Tri-M members were invited to the Couples Club in Hillsburgh, where they put on a skit of a mock wedding. A Convocation evening was held at the home of Dave and Pam Wright, for a couple who were moving away. It was Cum Laude, and Arthur Brecken conducted the ceremony in Latin. It took a bit of finesse to get the robes and caps into the house un-noticed by the "honoured" couple.
The club's regular meeting consisted of devotions, program and lunch, with everyone taking their turn in all categories.
Couples Club
I don't know when the Tri-M Club ceased to exist, but in 1976 a couples club was formed for the general idea of having social get-togethers. It was quite active for four years.
One outing which proved very popular, was a family affair each year, to get Christmas trees. In winter they enjoyed cross-country skiing. There was a games night at the church, and when Rev.Neill McRae came to Erin, the Couples Club helped with the luncheon following his first service. One Sunday morning they
conducted the church service. Members of the club helped with the fowl supper, and also assisted the ladies at the Erin Fair booth. A float was entered in the parade when the town of Erin was celebrating its centennial, and the club organized the alley sale which continues to be held every spring by some of the board members.
One outing which proved very popular, was a family affair each year, to get Christmas trees. In winter they enjoyed cross-country skiing. There was a games night at the church, and when Rev.Neill McRae came to Erin, the Couples Club helped with the luncheon following his first service. One Sunday morning they
conducted the church service. Members of the club helped with the fowl supper, and also assisted the ladies at the Erin Fair booth. A float was entered in the parade when the town of Erin was celebrating its centennial, and the club organized the alley sale which continues to be held every spring by some of the board members.
The Parsonage
We have no proof of where the early Methodist manse was located, but there are those who remember their parents speak of a manse across the street from the Methodist church.
One half acre of land was granted by James and Louise Braddy, for the sum of $1.00, on August 11, 1890, to the trustees of Erin and Ballinafad circuit of the Methodist Church. This land was in Erin village, on lot 15, concession 9, known as 5 Church Street. It was to be used for purposes connected with the church.
The parsonage was built .on this land in 1890, and was the home of eleven Methodist ministers and their families, until June 1925, when it became known as the United Church parsonage.
When Rev. Joseph Rees was living there, a bathroom was installed in 1943. A baseboard heater was added in the bathroom in 1967, and six new storm windows put on the parsonage in the time of Rev. George Howse. A garage was built that year too, to house his car.
Hills burgh paid one third of the upkeep, and Erin paid two thirds, which was the agreement, as Hillsburgh was a smaller congregation. The women of both congregations shared in cleaning and decorating the manse.
In 1972, during the occupancy of Rev. Jack Gillap, a new window was put in the kitchen to brighten the room. The official board, with the approval of the Gillap family, decided to offer the parsonage for sale, as many ministers at that time
were buying their own houses.
Mr. and Mrs. William Doole, the editor of the Erin Advocate, purchased the property in 1972, and made extensive improvements to the house and landscape.
The parsonage was built .on this land in 1890, and was the home of eleven Methodist ministers and their families, until June 1925, when it became known as the United Church parsonage.
When Rev. Joseph Rees was living there, a bathroom was installed in 1943. A baseboard heater was added in the bathroom in 1967, and six new storm windows put on the parsonage in the time of Rev. George Howse. A garage was built that year too, to house his car.
Hills burgh paid one third of the upkeep, and Erin paid two thirds, which was the agreement, as Hillsburgh was a smaller congregation. The women of both congregations shared in cleaning and decorating the manse.
In 1972, during the occupancy of Rev. Jack Gillap, a new window was put in the kitchen to brighten the room. The official board, with the approval of the Gillap family, decided to offer the parsonage for sale, as many ministers at that time
were buying their own houses.
Mr. and Mrs. William Doole, the editor of the Erin Advocate, purchased the property in 1972, and made extensive improvements to the house and landscape.
