All present and past members, and friends of the church, are invited to attend. Among the observances is a service of remembrance set for 7:30 p.m. today. Also, instead of the usual two worship services on Sunday mornings, a single service will be conducted at 10 a.m. tomorrow.

Hickory Methodist Church was founded in September 1953 by 78 charter members. They rented space in the former Hickory Fine Foods, which was located near the present Chi- Chi's on East State Street.

The Rev. Newton Swanson, the church's first minister, was instrumental in leading the church to its current location. Land for the church was purchased in 1954 from the George McConnell family. Architects Hunter, Heiges and Gross and contractor Gene Smith were hired as builders, and church members volunteered hours of labor during the construction.

Groundbreaking ceremonies were held in March 1955, with the first service in January 1956. Dr. Bruce Middaugh, district superintendent, gave the initial spiritual message, with the new church's choir providing music.

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