Indiana—In 1874, the Sabbath-keepers of Rochester, Ind., erected the first church organization in their community. J.H. Wagoner and I.H. Lane were the organizers of this little company of believers, whose charter membership numbered about 35.

A nice little church was built in 1876, and under the ministry of William Hill, the membership grew to 87. Hill had been a member of the Rochester community since 1861. He practiced medicine until 1888, when he turned his attention almost entirely to church work. He also served as treasurer of the Indiana Conference for 17 years. The Rochester Sentinel reported in Sept. 20, 1895, that the membership of the Rochester Adventist Church comprised some of the most substantial citizens of the town!

Because no record could be found to indicate that the Rochester Church had ever been dedicated, they planned a dedication service that would also include some recent improvements. The congregation has recently added a new church sign, dressed the platform with new flags and pulpit, and installed an organ which was donated. The current church family desired to dedicate the entire church with all the new improvements to the service of God!

The church of 2004 affirmed what the church of yesteryear had previously stated—"[We] firmly believe every word of God and if our church can be but a lighthouse to allow the rays of His book to shine more brightly, we shall be satisfied."

On Sabbath, Sept. 18, 2004, at a special dedication service, Rochester Church members praised God for His wonderful leading in the work in Rochester through the years!

Judith Yeoman, Indiana Conference Correspondent