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Boston Chapel celebrates 85th Thanksgiving supper
GIRARD, Ill. — Boston Chapel Christian Church is just a short drive in the country between Farmersville and Girard, Ill. Its membership draws from more than 10 neighboring towns.

Members enjoy the serene, casual atmosphere. The church has many family events throughout the year, and its acreage provides plenty of room for outdoor activities without the usual concerns of traffic.

Boston Chapel was organized in February 1873 at the Boston School House. An acre of land was purchased for $50 just east of the schoolhouse. Boston Chapel Christian Church was constructed and dedicated in early 1874.

Concrete walks were put down in 1907 at a cost of $57.55. Some of those original walks are still in use. In 1924, a basement was added to the building. Another remodeling was completed in 1938.
According to an article in the Illinois State Journal dated Nov. 26, 1937, a farmer donated a load of corn to be harvested by the Ladies Aid group. The proceeds from the sale were used to help finance the remodeling. The cost for the electrical wiring and lighting fixtures in the church was $35.25.

Church records show that many early preachers came by train from Eureka College to preach and sing on weekends. Members would go to town to pick them up and provide lodging for the weekend.
Since that time, more than 130 years ago, the congregation at Boston Chapel Christian Church continues to strive to fulfill the promises made by its founders.  The faith that was shown by them and the vision they had for tomorrow is still present in today’s congregation. In the fast-paced world today, the congregation may look back and marvel at the pleasure that came from new hitching posts for the horses, the first carpet on the floors and electric lights.

Additional acreage has been added twice. A fellowship hall, new classrooms and air conditioning were the next improvements. The congregation has plans for the future, just as their forefathers had plans long ago.

Many activities are held each year involving both youth and older members. As with most churches, Christmas and Easter are celebrated with special events. During the summer is Vacation Bible School, and fall events include Back to School Bash with jump houses, and a wiener roast and hayride welcome the Harvest Moon.
The church’s big event of the year is the week before Thanksgiving when on Tuesday night, it hosts a Turkey Supper for the community. For a freewill donation, a diner gets a family-style dinner of turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, noodles, green beans, applesauce, slaw, cranberry salad and dessert – all homemade.

This annual event just celebrated its 85th year. Last year more than 800 people enjoyed the meal. After so many years, it is a well-tuned operation and just one way to reach out to all in the church’s communities with Christian love.

Visit the church on the Web at www.bostonchapelccgirard.com
11/25/2009