Church members recognized
Pictured are Susan Watson, back left, Phyllis Pollock, Jane Hill, Dan Fair; front row, Jane Zesiger, Nancy Quillen, Dorothy Burkholder and Shirley Moreland.
Otterbein United Methodist Church recently observed Heritage Sunday during its morning worship service by recognizing members of its congregation who have been a member of the church for 50 years or more.
Otterbein is located at 156 Beaver Ave. in New Philadelphia, where the old East Elementary School stood. The original church was down on the point of Beaver Avenue and East High Avenue, where the church brick sign is now.
Dorothy Burkholder and Jane Zesiger were the longest living members of the church, which was founded in 1875.
Rev. Carolyn Baker, current church pastor, presented the names and the number of years of their membership. A certificate was presented to each honoree.
Nineteen people with memberships totaling 1,208 years were honored. Included in this group were the mother and daughter duo of Jane Zesiger and Susan Watson, who are third and fourth generations to be members of Otterbein Church.
There were tables with displays concerning the church in the narthex with photos, news clippings, booklets and other memorabilia. A reception followed the service.