08/08/2020
Nearly 50 years ago my family moved to Douglas. A few days after the move, in September 1971, we attended church at St. Paul's for the first time. My parents, two sisters, my brother and I sat in the fourth pew from the front on the south side for the first of many, many times. As the first hymn began, we all sang out just like our mother had taught us.
Later, Pastor Hagedorn would share that he was surprised by the volume from the congregation that morning. He sat up and looked around to see who was new. He easily spotted the newcomers.
Since then we have celebrated three weddings (mine, Holly's, and JP's) and four confirmations (Holly's, Angela's, Catherine's and Sean's). We have participated in (and organized) numerous Sunday Schools, Vacation Bible Schools, and Children's Christmas Eve Services. Our (extended) family has served in all capacities for St. Paul's and performed services from cleaning and maintenance to church officers and lay minister.
In 2021 we celebrate our 50th year at St. Paul's Church and joyfully join the celebration for St. Paul's 100th Anniversary.
Teresa (Findlay) Gallardo
