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150th Anniversary

2011 marks the 150th anniversary of Caven Presbyterian Church in Exeter, Ontario! The congregation, as it witnessed to Christ, has, like many other churches had some twists and turns, but the faith, strength and endurance of those founding members is still evident in the resilience and depth of faith in present day members.

From October 17, 2010 to Octobert 25, 2011, Caven Church has hosted and will host some great events:

What we’ve done already:

On October 17 we welcomed the Rev.Rev. Dr. Dorcas Gordon, the current Principal of Knox College who encouraged us in our faith journey. The church was named after another Principal of Knox College, the Rev. Dr. William Caven. On October 24, Donna Webster and Dorothy Henderson presented a Top Hat History describing 150 years of work and witness in this congregation and community. On November 28, 2010 we welcomed Johnathon Lee who told us about the important work of the Canadian Food Grains Bank. This is an important subject for Exeter as we grow a lot of beans, wheat and corn in our area.

What is yet ahead:

April 3, 2011: In 1948, The Rev. Don Sinclair, a fresh young graduate from Knox College, was appointed by the Mission Board to Caven, Exeter. Sixty two years later, he and his wife will return along with their son — the Rev. Scott Sinclair from Owen Sound. Scott and Don will lead the worship service together!

October 23, 2011: The Rev. Mark Gaskin, minister at Caven from 1989-1994, now at St. Andrew’s, Cambridge, will return to conduct worship and renew acquaintances. Caven members have fond memories of Mark’s ministry with them, especially with young families.

Special Funds

In the 150th year of our congregational witness in this community, we are challenging every member to make a donation over and above his/her weekly offering using “150” for inspiration: $15…$50…$150..$1500…$15,000…$150,000….

The Session and Board of Caven have set up two new funds for Year 150. Both funds will enhance the present and future ministry of Caven Church.

 

Elevator/Lift Fund

The purpose of this fund is to provide funding for an elevator/lift to make the sanctuary and basement accessible to those with mobility limitations. The goal of this fund is to raise enough money to evenutally build add an elevator/lift.  This fund will add new potential for increased use of the building by seniors, those in wheel chairs, young parents with strollers or baby chairs and so on.

 

Future Ministry Fund

The goal of this Fund is to raise at least $70,000 to build a solid financial basis for the continuing ministry of this congregation. This Fund is established, maintained and promoted exclusively for the spiritual growth of members and adherents of Caven Presbyterian Church in Exeter and for outreach to all people who need to hear that they are loved by God. The interest from this fund may be used for the ongoing ministry needs of Caven Church, according to the leading of God’s Holy Spirit. We want our congregation to live on into the future and provide a solid base of faith in Christ for children, youth and adults.

How can I be involved with these funds?

There are three different ways:

  1. Make a specific donation to Caven Presbyterian Church. Clearly mark your cheque “Elevator Fund” or “Future Ministry Fund.”
  2. Save your change and drop it week by week in the water bottle at the entrance to the church. Even pennies add up!
  3. Volunteer to join “The Elevator Fund” team to explore external ways to solicit money to make our building accessible.