| VIII. Post War Years, 1945-1974 |
The decades following World War II witnessed a religious revival in our country as well in Christ Church. Radio and television spread the message as never before. “In God We Trust” appeared on coins and the phrase “Under God” in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Returning from the second world war, Rev. Graham shepherded a growing flock. 403 families pledged and by 1953 there were 414 enrolled in Sunday school. In that same year, there were 58 baptisms and 40 confirmations.
Growth brought expansion. A curate, Rev. Rutenbar, was hired. To accommodate him and his family, a home adjacent to the Rectory was purchased. In addition, a third home was bought which now houses the Golden Rooster Shop. Over the past 37 years, dedicated volunteers have operated this consignment store to benefit the community as well as our Church. Also an “office building” (now called the Parish Hall) was built to accommodate the growing congregation.
Sadly, Rev. Graham died in 1961. Rev. Arthur Monk continued to shepherd the expanding congregation. A wide array of activities flourished. A boy’s choir, the Young People’s Fellowship, and a boy’s basketball team all focused on the youth. The adults enjoyed a Sunday School with 92 members, plays, cabarets and musical reviews.
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As the decade of the sixties unfolded, feminism accompanied the civil rights movement. Women now served on the vestry, as lay readers and as wardens. Starting in 1985, women served in positions of spiritual leadership.
In 1972 the Church was reconfigured into its current arrangement. The organ and choir were relocated to the rear of the Church, most of the rood screen was removed, and the altar was moved to the middle of the chancel with an octagonal rail around it. About seven years later needlepoint cushions around the altar rail were dedicated. Their designs mirror those of the fan lights above the chancel.
The three decades following World War II witnessed extraordinary expansion in every area of our national and parish life.
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