Embracing Heritage, Shaping the Future
Step into the rich tapestry of our history at Nauraushaun Presbyterian Church, where the echoes of faith and community have resonated for generations.
Since 1852, when the First Universalist Society of Orangeville (Orangetown) gathered in humble devotion over George Van Houten's sawmill on the tranquil Nauraushaun Creek, our journey of faith has unfolded. As a testament to those early beginnings, a stone from the foundation of that very sawmill now rests in the hallway, bridging the gap between our sanctuary and the rest of our church facility.
In 1856, a small white church building was erected on a hill, a sacred space made possible by the generosity of Tunis D. Cooper, who donated the land. Over the years, the congregation faced its share of challenges, and by 1876, only Sunday school services remained, lovingly overseen by George Van Houten.
However, the spirit of perseverance and dedication continued to shine. In 1902, the church building found new purpose as it was leased to the Greenbush Presbyterian Church, serving as a sanctuary for Sunday school activities. Rev. Thomas Moore-Smith, the pastor of Greenbush, extended his guidance to the Nauraushaun children, nurturing their faith through Sunday school teachings.
Then, in 1927, a momentous chapter unfolded. The people of Nauraushaun, fueled by a deep love for their community and a profound sense of purpose, took a bold step forward. With unwavering conviction, they purchased the church building from Greenbush and petitioned the Presbytery of Hudson for incorporation as the Nauraushaun Presbyterian Church. Rev. Moore-Smith, a steady beacon of wisdom and compassion, continued to serve both Greenbush and NPC until 1934, leaving an indelible mark on our shared journey.
Today, rooted in our storied past and inspired by the transformative love of Jesus Christ, Nauraushaun Presbyterian Church stands as a beacon of hope and inclusion. We embrace the beauty of differences, celebrating diversity in gender, race, sexual orientation, nationality, and religious background. We warmly welcome all, wherever they may be on life's journey and wherever they may reside in the world, to join us in nourishing their faith and growing in vibrant community.
As we reflect on our history, we embark on a new chapter, embracing our heritage as we shape the future together. We invite you to be part of our story, to engage in worship, ministries, and fellowship that resonate with your soul. At Nauraushaun Presbyterian Church, we honor our roots while envisioning a future where love, compassion, and faith intertwine to create a better world.