On Sunday, May 29, 1930, Bishop Alexander Mann laid the cornerstone of our church building at a ceremony attended by several hundred people. During this ceremony, a copper box was sealed into the cornerstone. The box was said to contain historical documents related to “St. Luke’s of Chartiers, St. Paul’s Laceyville, and the present St. Paul’s, which has assumed the Laceyville charter.” Photographs, lists of the founders of St. Paul’s and more were included in the box. It was intended to be opened in 2030. You can read more here in this article from the Pittsburgh Press from Saturday, May 24, 1930.
Last Thursday, our Rector, the Rev. Noah H. Evans, and our parish historian Geoff Hurd retrieved that copper box from the cornerstone. Our renovations to the front entrance to the church were scheduled to place a railing in front of the cornerstone, so we decided to access the cornerstone now, and hold the box in storage for the next three years. When this “time capsule” is opened, it will give us access to valuable documents and items that give us a deeper understanding of our church’s history.
We will celebrate this history and the successful completion of the 100th Anniversary Campaign at a 100th Anniversary Campaign Celebration, where we will bless the our renovated Washington Road Entrance and enjoy a catered Champagne Brunch. All are welcome! We can’t wait to celebrate our parish with you!