Wantage Community
SUM Church Pipe Organ Fundraising
Sussex United Methodist Church connects to history and workings of pipe organ fundraising as campaign continues...
The congregation of the Sussex United Methodist
Church is rallying behind the efforts to raise funds to repair its 82
year old pipe organ. Because of extensive wear in the leather stops used
in the Moeller organ’s internal mechanisms, the operation of the instrument
has been severely restricted.
The last time that the organ was “overhauled” was in 1973. Proposals are
being reviewed to install a new wind chest of electro-mechanical design
for the seven ranks of pipes.
A capital campaign began earlier this year beginning with a "Historic Pipe
Organ Sunday". Worshippers were invited to a reception after the service
to discuss and learn about the importance of restoring the organ and the
details on the proposed repairs. The children in the Sunday school classes
enjoyed a guided tour and demonstration with the church’s organist Mary
Snook and pipe organ aficionado Carl Shannon. Students sat besides Mrs.
Snook to learn how she brings the organ to life each Sunday, using the
three keyboards and numerous stops. Mr. Shannon gave a tour of the “pipe
room” pointing out the over chimes, shutters and over 400 pipes which resonate
the “numerous voices” of the organ.
Carl Shannon gives an overview of the workings of
a pipe organ during "Historic
Pipe Organ Sunday"
Fundraising for this campaign began in March with a family night at Friendly’s
in Wantage. A pasta dinner and silent auction was held in April, and an
“At Home America” party was held in May to help the church reach their
goal.
The church has also initiated an”Adopt a Pipe” campaign, in which individuals
are urged to adopt a pipe through a gift of $50. Donations could be placed
in honor or memory of a loved one and will be inscribed in a commemorative
book to be preserved with the organ. Certificates will also be available
upon request to present for gift purposes.
For more information about
the church’s “Historic Pipe Organ Campaign”, or to learn how to make a
donation, please contact the Sussex United Methodist Church at 973-875-5852
or at susumc@embarqmail.com.