The Late 1990's

Reprinted from First Presbyterian Church of Sun City 1963-1998, Thirty-Five Years of Spiritual Life:

On February 5, 1995, Dennis W. Clarke was installed as Senior Pastor.  After Dennis arrived we not only saw changes in the office (staff and structural!) but we HEARD a change - a delightful Irish brogue!  Dennis was ordained by the Presbytery of Magherahoghill!

In 1995 the number of ruling Elders on Session was reduced to 21.

The year 1996 was a very busy one.  In January Gracie Myers (wife of Pastor Rick) started work as Office Specialist, Dr. Richard Jaynes as Director of Parish Care, Roberta (Bobbi) Hoover as Director of Parish Visitation and Harvey Moore as Parish Associate.

The office area was rearranged with the conference room becoming the office specialist's office and the secretarial area being transformed into a conference room complete with new table and chairs, and draperies for privacy when needed.  New carpet and tile were laid throughout the office, kitchen, Swain Hall, and all areas of [the] main church building.

A festive celebration was held on February 18 to honor our pastoral staff.  Dennis, Rick and Harvey, along with their wives, were feted.  Parodies were sung, plaques were presented, speeches made, punch and cookies enjoyed.

In April the untimely death of Dr. Jaynes was met with great sorrow.  As an avid supporter of First Church, Session Member, Choir Member, member of various committees and as Director of Parish Care, he will be sorely missed.

To be continued.