Oak Grove Presbyterian Church.

 

The sources provide information about the ministers and deacons of the Oak Grove Presbyterian Church.

Ministers

• The early worship services were held in the homes of the early organizers of Oak Grove.
• The first minister to preach in the Little Levels was likely Rev. John McCue. He was appointed by the Hanover Presbytery to preach and organize churches in Greenbrier County.
• Rev. John Craig was known for his preaching and teaching in the Shenandoah Valley and was called "the father of religion and father of education in the Shenandoah Valley".
• Rev. William Wilson was the pastor of the Poages and other families, and they became imbued with the spirit of the movement.
• Rev. Samuel Graham was the first stated supply minister to serve Oak Grove, giving one-third of his time to the church in 1838.
• Rev. Mitchell D. Dunlap was the second pastor of the church, serving from 1844 to 1868.
• Rev. David Spotts Sydenstricker was the third minister. He was known for his scholarship and ability.
• Rev. Wilkes Macaulay married Pamela Akehurst Moses and became the pastor and leader of the church in 1983.
• Other ministers who served Oak Grove include John Montgomery, Mr. Lyle, Mr. Wilson, Mr. Bannals, and Dr. William Hill.
• Ministers were sometimes appointed by the Presbytery as missionaries or evangelists.
• Some ministers also served as teachers.
• The ministers and people of Hillsboro were always interested in promoting education and Christian character.

Deacons

• Deacons were elected and ordained in the Oak Grove Church.
• The first deacons were elected in 1859.
• The latest change in the term of the Board of Deacons was made in 1984.
• In 1970, Wilda Y. Chappell became the first woman to be elected to the diaconate.
• Many individuals served as deacons, some for multiple terms.
• Deacons were involved in various activities, such as overseeing the work of the church, serving on committees, and managing the church's finances.
• Some deacons also served as Sunday School Superintendents and teachers.
• In 1974 a nominating committee was adopted for the election of both Elders and Deacons.
• Some individuals have also served as Deacon Emeritus.
• The deacons were in charge of collecting money to be used for church repairs and other needed fixtures.
• The deacons have also been in charge of getting the church and manse ready for a new minister.
• Deacons have served on various committees including nominating committees