Swedish Baptists celebrated the 10th anniversary of the founding of the Swedish Baptist Church of Norwood with programs, services, and entertainment for four days ending with a big service last Sunday night in the church auditorium at 7 o’clock.
Former pastors of the church, charter members, the choir of several years ago, and many former members from all over New England took part in the celebration. Rev. Harry Aronson, pastor of the church, presided at all sessions, and the church was beautifully decorated for the occasion with flowers and greens and an anniversary program in blue and gold was presented to all who attended the meetings.
Motto of the anniversary was taken from 1 Samuel 7:12 and reads as follows: “Hitherto hath the Lord helped us.”
The celebration began with an opening service on Thanksgiving night when the ladies’ society presented the church with two beautiful flags for the pulpit: the American flag and the Christian flag. Rev. Benjamin Brown, of the Massachusetts Baptist Convention, was the guest speaker and gave an inspirational address. The meeting was followed by the serving of refreshments and a social hour.
Testimonial night was Friday night and there were several speakers.
Musical night was Saturday night with the present choir singing under the direction of Willard Söderström, choir director who also sang a solo number. Paul Tolander led the former choir in several Swedish selections.
The Barach men’s quartet sang. William Evcrburg played piano solos. Duets were sung by Mrs. Martin Elasonak and Wally Johnson Dimmitt of Walpole. Mrs. Agnes Palmborg of Needham was also soloist. Rev. Ernest Olson, former pastor, now of Connecticut, gave the address of the evening. He also preached the morning sermon to the congregation at the 11 o’clock service on Sunday morning. Prof. Carl H. Lager addressed the Sunday school at the 10 a m. session on Sunday.
A historical service was held on Sunday afternoon at 3 o’clock with John Nelson, church secretary, presenting a history of the church. Rev. Oscar B. Anderson, president of the Swedish Baptist Nea England Conference, gave the final address Sunday night.
Former pastors present at the celebration wore: Rev. A. Kannten of Norwood. Rev. Isak Borg of Worcester. Rev, G. W. Lindstrom of Connecticut and Rev. Ernest Olson of Connecticut. Mrs. John Franklin, widow of a former pastor, was abo present.
Charter members present were: Mr. and Mrs. P. A. Palmberg. Mrs. Victor Carlson. Mr. and Mrs Victor Ocelot Mdl, Mr. and Mrs. Kinos Johnson. Walter Johnson. Mr. and Mrs. John Nelson. Mrs. John Peterson. Mrs. Pau) Tolander and Oscar Ross.
(All articles originally published in the Norwood Messenger)