Presbyterianism in Summerside 1853—2003

ample room for the continuation and expansion of the many church groups and activities. The Annual report of 1969 revealed that 144 pupils had enrolled in the Sunday School Program, with an average attendance of 130 (a 90% attendance rate). By the end of the century the Sunday School component of Summerside Presbyterian Church continued to thrive. In 1999 the Sunday School Superintendent, Jane Dunn, attributed the success of the program to talented and committed volunteer teachers from the congregation.

In 2002, in addition to the Sunday School Program, there were three groups actively operating within the church and focussing exclusively on children, youth and young adults: The C. O. C. (Children of the Church), Kidz R Us, and Youth Ministry. Since the construction of the new church in 1969 several other groups have also been in existence: C. G. I. T., Explorers, Brigade Canada, Spy, Presbyterian Youth Group, Young Peo— ples, and Victoria Road Kindergarten.

In 1986 the Women’s Missionary Society (W. M. S.) of the Presbyterian Church in Canada became the At— lantic Mission Society (A. M. S.) of the Presbyterian Church in Canada. It was a move sanctioned by the Synod of the Atlantic Provinces with membership open to both men and women. The purpose of the A. M. S. was outlined in its mission statement: “... to support with prayer, study and service the mission endeavours of the Presbyterian Church in Canada through its Agen— cies, the Synod of the Atlantic Provinces, and the Presbyteries within its bounds." The following year the Women’s Missionary Society of Summerside Presbyte— rian Church ceased to exist. It had been in operation

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