Flora First Christian Church - Flora, IN

The E.H. Holloway Corporation of Indianapolis rebuilt the pipe organ for $12,878. It had been installed in 1917. New furniture and paneling improved the choir loft. The adult choir had around 20 members led by JoAnn Smith, Organist and Director.

They started lighting candles prior to each worship service. They also enjoyed the 24 hour prayer vigil. Dick Curts was the worship chair.

Nine were baptized, four transfered their membership. There were 262 resident members; 31 non-residents. Maude S. McNeil was the Clerk.

Three went to Chi Rho camp, and five to CYF at Camp Barbee. Martha Hoffman chaired the Christian Education Department.

The Disciples Choir had 20 regular members, although only two boys.  They met weekly, and provided music for one worship service a month, and led the congregational singing the second Sunday of each month.  Maxine Humes was director, Mary Lou Stout was assistant director, and Lois Ledman was the pianist.  In January, Mr. Bill Helvie treated the choir at the Krauss’ restaurant.

Mrs. Lawrence Douglas led the Flora Daily Vacation Bible School.  The average attendance in 1960 was 200; 1961 was 144 and 1962 was 163.  Our church had quite a number of children attending, and a few helpers.  We were lacking in our quota of adult teachers.

Kathern Shope was President of the CWF.  About 300 books were read, and 13 members received certificates for their reading.  They had representatives at the International Convention and Quadrennial.

CYF had about 20 members.  They went to Turkey Run, planned a cook-out, bowling, horseback riding and swimming.  President was Jan Harmon; Sec-Treasurer, Debbie Sisson; Study Chair, Bill Walker; Worship Chair, Darrell Hoffman and Service Chair, Kurt Harmon.

The Chi Rho was organized in October, 1961 with Naomi Butcher as the counselor and JoAnn Smith and Mildred Curts as assistants.  Eleven Jr. High youth participated.

Minister’s salary:  $5,200. (2006 was $29,200)

Choir Director:  $260. (2006 was $2,043)

Organist:  $156. (2006 was $2,043)

Custodian: $780. (2006 was $5,368)

A Pre-Easter program of Evangelism was carried forth resulting in 13 additions to the membership of the church.