By 1812Blockhouse
The parishioners at Mansfield’s Grace Episcopal Church set out to celebrate a remarkable milestone on Sunday.
They did so in a time honored way — by holding a commemorative worship service in their building on the corner of Third and Bowman. Among them was the Right Reverend Mark J. Hollingsworth, Eleventh Bishop of Ohio.
Hollingworth greeted those present by sharing with them that he was happy to be with them. “Under this mask,” he began, “I have an ear-to-ear grin of delight to be here and to see all of you in this wonderful celebration of 175 years and all that is awaiting us in our dream for Grace Church and for each of us.”
Grace Church began in 1846, the same year that the railroads came to Mansfield. Its history is a storied one of worship, outreach, and community involvement. In 2021, it is well known for its remarkably successful food pantry operation that assists area families in need.
Sunday’s celebration continued with a reception at Kingwood Center.
A monthly set of activities and events is planned to mark the church’s anniversary. On November 7, for instance, Dr. Daniel Butts will share a program looking at the remarkable stained glass windows of the church, including their history and significance.
We will join in marking this occasion on Tuesday be re-posting our early 2019 Landmarks of Mansfield post about Grace Church.
