** all photos by Elaine A. Russell

When I lived in Coudersport, I was an active member of the First United Presbyterian Church. Growing up in a small town... church was a very important part of daily life. I was fortunate to learn alot of self discipline... as well as the importance of helping out others as much as we are able to... whilst going there. I was in Sunday school as a child, and by the age of 12, was singing weekly in the choir. I helped with various roles, taking turns as a Deacon and helping with services. I sang for weddings... and I played my flute for many services and special events.... things like that. I was also very active in the church community.... helping elderly and/or sickly people with their cleaning and cooking and such.

The First United Presbyterian Church is the oldest church in Coudersport. The congregation originally met in houses and in a store front... until the church building as I know it... was built in 1850. It continues to be a very impressive structure today, as it no doubt was in the past.

While the congregation enrollment has fluctuated over the years... the enthusiasm of its members has not. They continue to be active in charitable works; both locally and worldwide.

The building is gorgeous. I have always admired the beauty of the church... from it's extensive woodworking and carved panels.... to the stunning stained glass windows... it is fabulously impressive. It is also well known for it's working pipe organ -- one a a select few left.

One of the things I really like.... is that they light up the sanctuary at night so that the glow from the windows looks out upon the town....

And, in 2007, there was an electronic musical system set up so that a few times each day; music is heard from the bell tower... "the chimes are part of the congregation's effort to sound a spiritual message of encouragement and hope."

So... the other day I had the opportunity to take some photos inside.
These are a few of the results.....