As I write this Epiphany is drawing to a close and Lent is coming up fast with Shrove Tuesday, March 4th and Ash Wednesday, March 5th. Recently on Sunday, January 12th (Baptism of Our Lord), our guest Pastor, Susan Beck asked if our Baptismal Font had a history. Unfortunately, I drew a blank and could not recall any specifics, but I know the present font has been with the congregation a long time. There isn’t anything in our most recent Anniversary booklet, but I remember seeing something about it in past booklets. So, I did some research and found the following information that I would like to share:

According to the 100th and 125th Anniversary books the following is the history of the baptismal font in the Sanctuary:

July 7, 1946: (100th Anniversary Edition)

The baptismal font was dedicated in memory of charter member Jacob Hines and his wife Catherine and Reuben P. Hines, given by the wife and children of the late Reuben P Hines. The unveiling was by Richard Finneyfrock and Raymond Zeltman. Presentation was made by William J. Hines and accepted by John Bassler, president of the congregation. Elmer F. Wessel volunteered to add more light in the chancel.

October 13, 1946

The practice of placing fresh cut flowers in the altar vases began on this date at the cost of $2.00 per Sunday. Flowers were furnished by Charles Cook and Son, florist of Ellicott City, Maryland.

July 7, 1946 (125 Anniversary notation:)

The baptismal font, donated by the wife and children of Ruben P. Hines in memory of Reuben P and his parents Jacob and Catherine Heinz founding members of St. Paul's was dedicated. It originally had a brass bowl but was replaced in 1983 by a stainless steel one donated by Elizabeth Auldridge.

Don't know if there are any additional references maybe in the Council Minutes.

Baptismal Font still in use today from 1946

I included the reference to the flowers as our present source “Ellie’s Arrangements went out of business on December 26, 2024, and we now have new source. Amanda’s Arrangement in Burtonsville. It was interesting to me that the practice of cut flowers on the altar also began in 1946. imagine $2 per vase!

Kerry Griffin

Archivist