Indiana —The First Seventh-day Adventist Church of Fort Wayne, Ind., held its centennial celebration to honor 105 years of existence on Sept. 13, 2003. The church, organized in October 1897, began with 34 charter members.

Nearly 400 people attended the celebration, themed “The Footprints of our Heritage … Remembering our Past … Hope in our Future.” Don Schneider, North American Division president, was the guest speaker.

An afternoon program featured musical guests Paul and Sondra Fruth from Cicero, Ind., and the Indiana Academy Choralanas. Multi-media presentations and guest speakers reviewed church history and recalled milestones. A church memorabilia area was set up in the church's Better Living Center for all to enjoy.

After the closing message by Indiana Conference president Gary Thurber, thoughts of the past gave way to the future as everyone sang “We Have This Hope.” Indiana Conference secretary Archie Moore and treasurer George Crumley were present along with Lake Union Conference treasurer, Glynn Scott.

A DVD commemorating the event and featuring the speakers, musical guests, and church history multi-media presentations is available by contacting the Fort Wayne Church at admin@fwsda.org.

Brett McAllister, Fort Wayne Church communication leader