WEST PARIS – The West Paris Mission Congregational Church, UCC observed its 100th year of ministry on July 24. It ministered first to the early Finnish immigrants to the area, more recently to the surrounding communities.

In its early years the church experienced a spiritual awakening that brought many into its membership, some of whose family descendants are still represented in the church. The church has been observing its centennial in various ways this year, starting with an open house in June, where where there were a number of displays and photos of church life.

The second event in the centennial observations was the centennial service, followed by a catered dinner provided by Maurice’s Restaurant. Approximately 100 people attended the service and dinner.

The Rev. Linda Kimball compiled a brief history of the church, the first copy of which was presented to senior member, Alvar Immonen, during the morning service. Rodney Abbott welcomed everyone to the service, and Cynthia Immonen read greetings from those who were unable to attend.

William Immonen read the Scriptures in English and Finnish, noting that he would read the Epistle of Paul to the Finns living in Ephesus.

Several former pastors and their wives took part in the service, including the Rev. Russell and Marta Lane of Norridgewock, the Rev. Douglas Trottier and his wife, Beth Stoddard, of Portland, and the Rev. Konni Wells of Belfast.

Others taking part in the service were the Rev. June Boutwell, interim association conference minister of the United Church of Christ in Maine, who gave the message; the Rev. Linda Smith, chairwoman of the Small Church Mission Team of the Maine Conference; the Rev. Denise Goodman, moderator of the Maine Conference; and the Rev. Linda Kimball, the present pastor of the West Paris Mission Congregational Church, UCC.

The Rev. Dan Johnson, organist and choir director of the West Parish Congregational Church, UCC of Bethel, provided music and led the choir of that church in a rendition of “God So Loved the World.” Singing with the choir were the Rev. Ginger and John Cunningham of the Mexico Congregational Church, UCC.

At the end of the service, all those who could sing in Finnish sang “Heavenly Sunshine” in English and Finnish, a song which had been taught to the Sunday school students of the church.

Among the worshippers was a large contingent of Oxford Union Church members, as well as many visitors from West Paris, South Paris, Lewiston and Standish. Coming from Beverly, Mass., were Susanna Immonen Brougham and her husband, Gregory Brougham. Susanna is a direct descendant of one of the earliest settlers in West Paris, Jacob Mikkonen.

The next event in the centennial observations is an outdoor service at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 12, at the home of Richard and Janet Scott, 21 Sumner Road, West Paris, followed by a potluck picnic. The church is supplying hot dogs and hamburgers. Those attending should bring a salad or dessert and a folding chair.

The Kantele Konsort will present a concert of music, played on the Finnish national instrument, the kantele, and voice at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 15, at the church. Refreshments will be served during intermission.