Good News Letter

GOOD NEWS LETTER October 2006 - Online Version

Hibben United Methodist Church

Vol.14 No.6

Old Hibben Undergoes Renovation and Conversion History of Old Hibben The story begins over 200 years ago when Bishop Francis Asbury took a ferry across the great Cooper River around February of 1785. In his more than 25 trips to South Carolina, the roving Bishop of the newly formed Methodist Episcopal Church formed numerous Methodist societies in different places. One of those places was the resort area of Mt. Pleasant where the owners of large plantations took periods of vacation and rest. While we do not have a specific date, we know that there was a Methodist society in Mt. Pleasant well before the turn of the century, i.e. 1800. We at Hibben belong to a special group of churches who can lay claim to a definite kinship in our lineage with Asbury. On December 19, 1809, Major James Hibben donated the Hibben street lot for a church and an Academy. The lot was simply deeded to a “Methodist Society”. He indicated the church should be built on the lot nearest Bennett Street. The Methodists built the first church on this site around 1830. The “old, old Hibben” was in such dilapidated condition following the “War between the States” that it was torn down in 1868. During this War, the Church had served as a hospital for wounded Confederate soldiers. From 1868 to 1899, the Methodists were once again without a church building and

worshipped with Mt. Pleasant Presbyterian. Most of these early Methodists lived on plantations and came to their “pleasant” vacation spot in the summer. Finally, in November 1899, the materials for the new church were purchased and construction began on what is now Old Hibben. The few Methodists in Mt. Pleasant worked hard to see their dream of a new church home realized. The first service was held in the new church at the corner of Hibben and Bennett Streets in July, 1901. From carefully crafted pieces of Cyprus and Heart Pine, a church began to take

shape in the Eastlake architectural style which is unique here in the Lowcountry. The small church has interesting Gothic features from the plans of the great cathedrals of Europe. There are two transepts which extend the nave to form a cross shaped pattern. An apse at the front of (Continued on Page 2)

Some Topics In This Issue Old Hibben Renovation Memorials A Note From The Associate Pastor Crop Walk Wonderful Wednesday Old Hibben Renovation Photos (3 Oct) Mark Your Calendars Pumpkin Patch Backpack Buddies Gathering Info Welcome New Memnbers

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October 2006 - Page 2

GOOD NEWS LETTER

Old Hibben Renovation (Continued from Page 1)

the nave holds the space of the chancel area. Gothic-arched windows allow light to flood the warm worship space with its tongue and groove millwork. The eyes flow upward to the vaulted spaces of the ceiling via unsupported arches. To add to the uniqueness of this holy space, a small front porch serves as a gathering spot for worshippers as they enter to praise God and exit to serve his world. The Church Bell was donated and placed in the steeple in 1902. The Baptismal Font, where hundreds of Hibben babies, youth, and adults have been baptized was donated by Alice Swinton’s Sunday School Class. That same Font continues to be a part of our worship as we gather around to celebrate the covenant God has established with us. The newly constructed church would serve as a home for Hibben for sixty years before the family had grown so much that a new church in the growing town of Mt. Pleasant would be needed. On the last Sunday in September, 1959, Hibben moved from its home in the village of Mt. Pleasant to our current property on Coleman and had the first worship service in the newly constructed church. The new church would include our present Educational Building along with a fellowship hall and Chapel. Our present chapel was created from the chancel area of the original Chapel. Road to Renovation The story does not end there for Old Hibben in the village. The church would be sold to the Seventh Day Adventists who would worship in the small village church for some 40 years. Then in the summer of 2000 the Seventh Day Adventist would plan to sell the church. A young man by the name of Todd Frizelle and his wife Melissa would look at buying the little church. But, the decision was made to not sell the Church. Then in the summer of 2005, a decision was made once again to sell the Church as the Adventist Congregation was growing too small to maintain it. (Continued on Page 4)

IN MEMORY OF DORIS ETHEREDGE By: Joy Circle By: Jack & Jeanette Zuker By: Tami & Robert Crewdson By: Bert & Mandy Etheredge By: Shirley & Tom Galloway By: Jimmy & Shirley Fiddie By: Russell & Leella Bennett By: Jack & Barbara Shuman By: Herbert-Way-Arms Class By: Mike & Anne Taylor By: Al & Blondell Davison By: Jean & Rosemary Onorato By: Nancy Blocker

IN MEMORY OF J. O. SHULER By: Kindness Circle By: Mr. & Mrs. Philip Ammirati

IN MEMORY OF LARRY BOOHER By: Barbara Stewart

IN MEMORY OF CLELA BROWN By: CRC Ladies Auxiliary

IN MEMORY OF RENELDA LAMBLIN By: Royal & Evelyn Wilkerson

Todd and Kyle discussing church history and renovation process

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A Note From Our Associate Pastor Greetings Hibbenites, Wow! October is here. It seems as if school had just let out and summer was before us. Now, we stand surrounded by the beauty of autumn with our lawn covered in pumpkins, days are waning, and the temperature is cooling. I believe that October must be one of my favorite months of the year. God’s beautiful creation is celebrating with a palate of bright, vivid colors. Friday nights and Saturdays are filled with football. Families are settling into the school routine. Friends gather around. We begin to experience the changes that the seasons bring. As we march into October, Wonderful Wednesday’s are retuning for our children. We continue to journey through our study, Treasures of the transformed life, together. Everyone is taking part in the pumpkin patch welcoming the community to our lawn. We eagerly anticipate the arrival of Courtney Harlan, our new Director of Christian Education the middle of this month as she begins to make her home here in Mt. Pleasant and at Hibben. The animals are brought for their annual blessing on October 1. So much more fillls our days here at Hibben. Each week, we continue to gather for worship to praise God for all he has done for us through Creation. Our worship this season continues to call us be faithful disciples who reach out to God’s people in service and mission. We are encouraged to be seasoned with salt and to be at peace with one another, to pray for one another, and confess our sins. The psalmist sings that we are the crown of God’s creation. The world, and all that lives within it, belongs to God, who transforms all things through Christ. Each week, we are given the

charge to uphold our baptismal covenant as we are sent into the world to serve God’s people in peace! As Nancy and I prepare to welcome our first child in the coming weeks, Hibben, too, is pregnant with all kinds of possibilities. We are preparing as a congregation to give birth in this autumnal season to the new life God has for us as we continually seek to be transformed by God’s grace. Look at all the possibilities where you may bring new life whether you join the Chancel Choir in giving praise to God through voice, eat with us in fellowship at the Gathering, participate in the various studies, take part in the children’s ministries, Youth, or Sunday School. There is a place for all of us, what gifts can you offer? I ask that you keep Nancy and me in your prayers as we eagerly anticipate a new baby in November. I ask that you also continue to pray for Hibben each day and the life that we have and all the possibilities as God’s people we have to offer. May this season of autumn be a time of transformation and growth in all of our lives. Peace,

Kyle

Hibben Blood Drive Sunday, October 22nd 9:00 – 2:00 Appointment schedule located at side sanctuary door

Mark your calendar for the annual Crop Walk 2006 in downtown Charleston on Sunday, November 12th at 2 pm. It is a 1.7 mile church-wide walk to fight poverty here and around the world. Walks are organized by Church World Service in major cities around the country.

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Did you know? If you have food in the refrigerator, clothes on your back, a roof over your head, and a place to sleep, you are richer than 75% of the world. If you have money in the bank and spare change in a dish somewhere, you are among the top 8% of the world’s wealthy.

The Crop Walk is a fantastic way to share with others who are less fortunate, show God gratefulness for His gifts, witness to others who see the walk downtown or on TV. It is also a fun way to exercise while enjoying fellowship with your family or church family. Crop Walk 2005 was a huge success! Hibben sent a record 25 walkers and raised the second highest amount in the Charleston area. We raised a total of $1109.55 for a vital cause. Our goal this year is to double our amount raised and the number of walkers. Whether you’d like to participate in the walk or contribute to the fundraising effort, this is an opportunity waiting for you. Please contact Noelle Irelan at 971-1369 or [email protected]

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October 2006 - Page 4

Old Hibben Renovation (Continued from Page 2)

Todd and his wife who had married in 1994 and lived here in Mt. Pleasant from 1996 through 2003, had decided to move back to Mt. Pleasant from Athens, Georgia, with their two young daughters Grayson and Madaleine. They had previously lived in the village, had restored their historic home in Athens, but thought it would be wonderful if the small church was for sale again. On an August day in 2005, their idea became a reality. Because the church was a historic structure that was one of several structures in the village that was a part of the National Register of Historic Places, the town of Mt. Pleasant had placed restrictions on the property—it could only be sold for use as a church or as a private home. The Frizelles became the newest family to be a part of the historic Hibben structure. Then on a warm, humid afternoon this past July, curious at the restoration that was going on in the old church, I stopped my car to inquire. I met Todd and he invited me in to see what was happening. I shared with him that I was the associate pastor of Hibben UMC and was curious to see what the old church was like. An immediate conversation began and a couple weeks later, I returned with Tom Stalvey to document the work for our continuing story at Hibben. Todd shared how he and his wife were drawn to the old church. The “idea was to preserve the structure as much as possible and yet make it a home.” Growing up in mostly rural Georgia, he had developed a passion for woodworking and old things. He remembers as a youngster working with his grandfathers on projects that taught him the tools of woodworking. He came from a family of working Southerners. He would often visit with his grandfather in southern Georgia where the small town had a Baptist and a Methodist Church. Because they both had traveling ministers, the two

churches would flip-flop each week where they worshipped. Mark Bayne and Todd started Sea Island Boatworks in 1997 and helped initiate the construction of the wooden boat, the “Spirit of Carolina” which is being built in the Ansonborough field in downtown Charleston, but Todd is no longer involved in this project. He is devoting 100% of his time to making this house of worship a home for his family. The historic church space will become the common areas for the family. The goal is to change as little as possible about the church. The nave and transepts will become the living and dining area. The narthex will be opened to create an entrance vestibule and a small library is being formed in the rear section of the nave with the addition of a small wall. Four historic columns will define the kitchen area instead of adding a wall. The apse will become a small breakfast area. Two storage areas that flank the apse will become a powder room and pantry. The pastor’s study will become a small den. Eventually,

the stained glass window inserts added by the Seventh Day Adventists will be replaced with historical Gothic window structures as were the original. Eventually, the old Education Building built in the late 40’s to early 50’s will be transformed into a two story structure with bedrooms on the second floor and a studio, garage, and work space on the 1st floor. A connecting hallway will be built between the two structures. Todd shared that he and his wife were drawn to this space because of its history, its openness, its location in the village, and the element of challenge. He said, “It reminds me of rural Georgia churches. It is clearly a church structure, but has unusual elements such as the front porch and steeple.” As with anything, there have been many mixed responses. Not everyone is happy that this church is becoming a private home. Yet, many people have stopped by to tell the story of how they (Continued on Page 5)

(See related article on page 7)

The ceiling and windows of the transept. 23 August 2006

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Old Hibben Renovation (Continued from Page 4)

were baptized here or married here. With the city limiting the use of the building to a private residence or church, not a community center, restaurant, or wedding chapel, as some had thought, its integrity as a historic part of both Hibben and Mt. Pleasant will remain. Todd says, “We’re doing all we can to preserve and enhance things in the village,” which has given rise to the overly positive response people have shared with him. The structure was in good condition, well-built with heart pine beams. Externally, the wood is in great shape because of the enduring quality of pine. Unfortunately, there is a lot of paint that will eventually have to be stripped and then repainted. “Having spent eight months in Italy and seeing all the Romanesque structures and great cathedrals, it is interesting to discover all the unique architectural features used in the church. To see the basic parts of a cathedral—nave, transepts, apse with vaulted ceilings is often unique in such small churches. It’s a connection with the culture.” He is intrigued with just how it was built—to understand and see the roof trusses which support the massive ceiling, how was it done and how it has lasted.

View from Bennett Street - 23 August 2006

“We wanted to preserve the structure, do nothing to compromise its space, construction or history.” Finally, he says, “It’s been a learning experience, a big push to say we’ve done something with a unique space and, once all the workers and dust are gone, it’s still a sacred space—I like.” If you have some time and see Todd out by his home, stop by. He has extended an invitation to come and see what he and his family are doing. I think you’ll be amazed at both the beauty of Old Hibben, as well as the transformation, and also pleased with the integrity Todd and his family have used in preserving our “old home”. What began as our Hibben home where

A view towards the nave which shows the kitchen and apse areas under construction. 23 August 2006 we planted our roots and grew through This article was written by Kyle Randle. God’s transforming grace will continue Photos were taken by Tom Stalvey. to be a transforming space and home for *Some information for this her new family. article came from “The History An additional photo of the old pews can be found in last month's issue of the Good News Letter.

of Hibben Methodist Church, Mt. Pleasant, S.C.” by Carl D. Clary and Harris A. DuBois.

October 2006 - Page 6

Wonderful Wednesday Kicks Off

GOOD NEWS LETTER

More Old Hibben Photos

Wednesday, October 11th marks the beginning of Wonderful Wednesday! All children 4 years – 5th grade are invited to join their friends in the CLLC each Wednesday from 4:30 – 6:00. So that we might plan adequately, registration is required. Signup is currently underway at the children’s bulletin board outside the church office, by email [email protected] or online registration via our Web site. Adult volunteers are needed, as well as bus drivers. See Rev. Kyle and let him know we can count on YOU!

Old Hibben viewed from the South on Hibben Street - 23 August 2006

October 5 thru October 31 Hours of operation - 10:00 am until dark - Monday thru Saturday and Noon until dark on Sunday. This is Hibben’s largest fundraiser. BUT . . . it takes volunteers to make this a success. Both men and women are encouraged to volunteer two hours of their time to man the patch. Of course, volunteering for additional shifts is greatly needed and appreciated. Take a look at the signup book located in the vestibule and select a time that suits your schedule. The schedule will also be available in the church office during the week. Come pull up a lawn chair and spend a couple of hours enjoying friends and greeting neighbors in our community.

Front View from Hibben Street - 23 August 2006 Articles for THE GOOD NEWS LETTER should be submitted by the 3rd Friday of each month. The preferred method for submitting articles is via email with articles attached as a Microsoft Word or rich text document. The email address is [email protected].

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Page 7 - October 2006

More Old Hibben Photos After Renovations 3 October 2006

Kitchen area as viewed from south transept

Kitchen area viewed from library at front of structure

Kitchen and living areas as viewed from old choir loft

Revamped vestibule as viewed from living area

Kitchen counter with north transept in background

Library viewed from center of structure

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October 2006 - Page 8

More Old Hibben Photos After Renovations 3 October 2006

South transept as viewed from center of structure

Entrance to old Pastor's Study presently being used as children's bedroom

Second story being added to old Education Building as viewed from Bennett Street

New front doors

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Page 9 - October 2006

Mark Your Calendars Celebration Sunday, October 29th This day marks the end of our Stewardship Sunday with the Commitment Service during both worship service on this morning. Following the 10:30 worship service we will have a Celebration Luncheon in the CLLC to honor your commitment to Hibben. Look for all the details to follow in the coming weeks. Save this date and celebrate with us!

Backpack Buddies By: Sara Dorfner Many of you know Terry Lupo, formerly our Parish Nurse. Now, Terry’s taken on new responsibilities with a full-time position at M.C. Hursey Elementary School in North Charleston. Similar to Stall High School (where we currently assist with their Backpack Buddies program), approximately 97% of the 4K – 5th grade students qualify for free lunch. Terry is in the beginning stages of organizing a similar program.

Childrens News September’s Super Sunday’s have been great. Thanks to all the volunteers and participants. Our next Super Sunday is OCTOBER 29th from 3:00 4:30 in the CLLC, come and join the fun!!! After a brief break, Wonderful Wednesday is back and better than ever!!!! Beginning, Wednesday, October 11 at 4:30 PM. We’ll have games and crafts, fun and fellowship, programs and singing too! The Hibben Bells for Children will be ringing again at 4:00 PM. Please sign up at the children’s board by the church office or email Rev. Kyle at [email protected]. We need volunteers to help out with the activities and driving the bus. Let us know how you can give of your time to our children’s ministry by calling the office or emailing Rev. Kyle.

Our Backpack Buddies program started with a handful of students at Stall. During the 2005-2006 school year, we averaged between 75 and 100 backpacks each weekend. Each backpack contains breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack items – all single serving, easy to prepare items. We are always in need of food, backpacks, and monetary donations – it takes approximately $135 per child (to provide weekend backpacks for the school year). Used backpacks are fine, and any of the following food items (preferably in pop-top cans – many students do not have can openers, and the school does not allow us to send them home): • •

Individual containers of soup Pasta/protein single-serve meals such as SpaghettiOs, canned tuna or

• • • • • •

chicken, Vienna Sausages, Beanie Weanies Pudding, Jell-o Fruit cups, applesauce Instant oatmeal/grits Cheese or peanut butter crackers Juice boxes Anything nutritious packaged in singleservings

Backpack Buddies will need volunteers to pack backpacks with food each week, to deliver full backpacks to the schools, and to return the empty backpacks to the church to be refilled. Of course, we always need backpacks, food, and monetary donations. Please prayerfully consider your spiritual gifts and how you can put those to use in serving this ministry, and be on the lookout for grocery bags to fill for an upcoming donation weekend. Remember that although we only ask for donations on occasion, we provide food for these children each weekend through the entire school year. Ongoing support is a necessity for the success of this ministry. Please consider making regular food purchases for Backpack Buddies a part of your routine grocery shopping. Point of contact at Hibben is Rev. Kyle.

Youth News Hibben’s Youth is in full swing now that school is back. UMYF meets every Sunday from 6:00 8:00 p.m. We begin with our fellowship meal, followed by games and our weekly

program, and end with worship. We have something for everyone, — Junior High and Senior Highs. Come join the fun and invite a friend to join us!

On October 22nd at 6:00 PM, there will be a WELCOME dinner for parents and youth welcoming Coutney Harlan, our new Director of Christian Education.

October 2006 - Page 10

Mmm, Mmm, Good!!! That’s the sounds coming from the CLLC on Wednesday evenings during the Gathering. This year’s Gathering has taken on some delicious new smells and tastes thanks to our new chef, Amy Cousino. Amy and her husband, Pete, moved to Mt. Pleasant back in the July from Florida. Amy is a veternarian. She graduated from Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. She has four grown children, Chris, Isaac, Kim, and Mike. If you haven’t signed up for the Gathering, you’re missing not only our fellowship, but some delicious food from Chef Amy! Come say hello to Amy, she might let you stir a pot or two, and join us for some good cooking and great fellowship!

Welcome New Members

THE HIBBEN TEAM H. Sam Johnson...............Senior Pastor Kyle Randle................Associate Pastor Kathi Cotterill.............Business Admin. Cheryl Cummings......Church Secretary Courtney Harlan..Dir. Christian Educ. H. Scott Brunson..... Director of Music Pam Brunson...........................Organist Norma Taylor.............................Pianist Steve Bare..................Dir. Joyful Noise Jill Nyers.............Director of Handbells Nancie Willett..........Co-Dir. PreSchool Robin Robertson......Co-Dir. PreSchool Vacant...............................Parish Nurse Joyce Baldwin......Nursery Coordinator Frankie Lewis.............................Sexton Phone Number: (843) 884-9761 Fax Number: (843) 884-2091 Email: [email protected] Web Site URL http://www.hibbenumc.org Hibben's Good News Letter is a monthly publication of Hibben Communications Editor...............................Tom Stalvey

Hibben welcomes Dr. John Schaefer and Dr. Carol Simmons, along with their two children, Lyndsey and Christian. The family makes their home at 1525 Rivertowne Country Club Drive, phone 388-6169. John, Carol and Lyndsey join us by certificate of transfer from St. Paul’s United Methodist Church of Allison Park, Pennsylvania. Christian has been placed on the baptized/ preparatory roll awaiting full membership.

Hibben United Methodist Church 690 Coleman Blvd. Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED

FRONT PAGE GRAPHIC A portion of Hibben's stained glass window located in the chapel. BACK PAGE GRAPHIC Hibben's Baptismal Font and Communion Table.

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PAID Permit No. 12 Mt. Pleasant, SC