1957-61

*Friendship United Methodist Church*
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1957:
In 1957 installation of electric lights was completed with the aid of funds given by Mr. and Mrs. William C. Bauer, Sr., in memory of their son, William C. Bauer, Jr. A dedication service was held January 5, 1958 with Rev. Harold Coles, Pastor, and Dr. Charles Smyth, Bridgeton District Superintendent, participating.

After many months of untiring effort on the part of Mrs. Eli J. Raimbault, President of our Woman’s Society of Christian Service, the Minotola-Harmony Circuit Woman’s Society of Christian Service was organized April 24, 1957. Four years later, March 22, 1961, it was voted to change the name to Friendship-Minotola Woman’s Society of Christian Service as the membership consisted of the women of the Friendship and Minotola churches only.

1960:
Improvements in the Social Hall consisted of a modern heating system installed in 1960 and an addition for new rest rooms completed in 1966 at a cost of approximately $1050.00.

1961:
In 1961 the interior of the sanctuary was entirely renewed. A contract was given to Thomas Simpson and Son to do the work at a cost of $1200.00. All of the plaster was removed from the ceiling and walls by several members of the church who gave of their time for many, many weeks. After the plaster was removed it was found necessary to have a new chimney. When all the work was finished several of the members again gave of their time and repainted all the interior woodwork. A Dedication Service for the new interior was held Anniversary Day, May 21, 1961. Rev. Howard Shoemaker and Rev. Harold Coles, Pastor, conducted the service. Many favorable comments have been heard on the magnificent renovation.

Also during the pastorate of Rev. Harold Coles, an electric organ was given by Mr. and Mrs. William J. Lacroix, in memory of Mr. Lacroix’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. William F. Lacroix. Dr. Marvin Guice, Bridgeton District Superintendent, officiated at the Dedication Service on Anniversary Day, May 20, 1962. This organ is a great blessing to the services.

The congregation of Friendship was very pleased when the Historical Society of Southern New Jersey Annual Conference of the Methodist Church visited our church on one of its pilgrimages, October 21, 1961. The President of the Historical Society, Rev. D. C. Evans, gave a brief history of the church and cemetery. This presentation brought back cherished memories and was greatly enjoyed.