Sir: On behalf of the congregation and staff of St. Andrew’s United Church, Chatham, we wish to thank the Chatham-Kent community for supporting our recent 180th anniversary celebrations.
We particularly thank the choristers and instrumentalists who presented a fabulous 180…and Counting concert with the leadership of Devon Hansen, director of music at St. Andrew’s. Many community members joined St. Andrew’s Chancel Choir to form the Anniversary Choir.
In addition, the Jubilee Chorus, Chatham Christian High School Choir, Chatham-Kent Secondary School Choir and Trinity in the Woods Choir from Farmington Hills Michigan presented beautiful music. All these choirs formed a mass choir for impressive renditions of various numbers. Organ and piano accompaniment complemented by instrumental accompaniment from Chatham Concert Band musicians added to the beauty of the vocal music.
Many choristers travelled distances to participate in this celebration, as well as former minister Rev. Deanna Gibson from Sarnia, who presented the message at the Sunday morning service.
Appreciation is especially expressed to the media for promoting the celebration and publishing informative articles and photos about the history of the church. Jim Blake’s article in The Chatham Voice highlighted the past and present of St. Andrew’s.
We also wish to thank Sobeys, Retro Suites Hotel, and Fresh and Refresh Interiors for their generosity in providing products and services.
The celebration of the 180 years of church history would not have been so joyous without the attendance of so many from the community at the concert, Sunday service and open house. Thank you all.
Mary Alice Marchand, on behalf of
Performing Arts and Anniversary committees
St. Andrew’s United Church
