Park Street United
Methodist Church and Fourth United
Church of Christ always had good relations. The oil shortages of the 1970's
led them even closer - to cooperative worship services in the winter to
conserve fuel. Later, joint summer services were held during the vacation
periods of the pastors. The two parishes not only worshiped together, but
also engaged in cooperative community mission activities through the
"Hill Parish Ministry" with two other neighborhood churches.
After the retirement of Fourth
Church's pastor, the
Rev. George C. Bingaman in 1978, a new adventure of sharing evolved. Rev.
Thomas L. Salsgiver, Park
Street's assumed Fourth Church's
pastoral duties. Intensive study and discussion immediately began toward
the development of an agreement to create a "Shared Ministry" of
the two parishes. Overwhelming approval by both congregations was voted on
April 1, 1979, and a service of celebration on May 3, 1979 launched the new
venture. Under the agreement, the two congregations retained ownership of
their respective properties, their denominational affiliations and
obligations. However, they jointly share one senior pastor and staff, and
through a Shared Ministry Council, plan and execute a unified program of
worship, education, and community outreach.
Pastors of the Shared Ministry also include the Rev. Terry Leckrone
(1984-1991), the Rev. Mary Medkeff-Rose (interim 1991-1992), the Rev. Dr.
William H. Rader, (1992-1998), Rev. Mary Medkeff-Rose, 1998-2006 and Rev.
Mike Beynon (2006-2008). Reverend Richard Gordon serves as the current
Pastor.
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