n the fall of l957, two local members of the Church of the Larger
Fellowship, were contacted and told that a representative from Boston,
Massachusetts would be in Roseburg to help organize a fellowship. A notice
was put in the News Review and the representative arrived to speak to
about thirty people at the Old Umpqua Hotel. The enthusiasm and need for
a fellowship was apparent. The group met in various locations over the
years, first at the hotel, then in homes, then in rented spaces.
Most significant
in the early stages of growth was a strong religious educational program
for children which included an active LRY (Liberal Religious Youth) for
teens. It became a model for other churches throughout the state to visit
and take idea's back to use in their own programs. One of the most exciting
activities was family camp held each summer for almost a week at various
locations, such as Rock Creek, Millpond, Cavitt Creek, Dorena and E-Mile.
Lack of leadership
and other problems caused the fellowship to disband for nearly ten years.
In the l980's the fellowship was reorganized and meetings were held at
the Veteran's Building on Garden Valley Road. Property was purchased to
build a church, but was sold in order to make a down payment on our present
church building, in October of l993. Individual members made large contributions
to this undertaking.
Through the
years, we had many visiting ministers, but the majority of presentations
were given by members. We are inspired to expand our vision, mutual trust,
and support while providing an atmosphere to create and maintain a diverse,
caring community that encourages ethical, intellectual, and spiritual
growth, as stated in our latest mission statement. In May of 2003 the Congregation called our full-time minister, Rev. Annie Holmes.
Manifestations
and affirmations of our beliefs are found in the Peace Pole erected at
City Hall. Our present chalice has witnessed our individual joys, sorrows,
weddings and memorial services: and the many candle light vigils offering
support to humanitarian measures such as taking strong environmental positions,
and strengthening gay and lesbian concerns, and certain political measures.
We have witnessed
many examples of personal courage, such as the time members were arrested
protesting nuclear testing at the Nevada test site. Our principles and
sources continue to strengthen us as we celebrate the sacred circle of
life of which we are a part.