Rev. (her MacPhail

few. Others were studying and would follow in their footsteps.

In 1986, much of the energy at First Baptist was directed toward the 150th anniversary celebrations, and it paid massive dividends in drawing public attention to the church’s existence and regenerating member’s faith. The $75,000 campaign for capital projects was so successful that the target amount was increased to $85,000. The celebrations began on New Year’s Day, when First Baptist hosted a Levee that attracted hundreds of visitors, including the Lieutenant Governorofthe Province,Hon.Lloyd MacPhail. It was the first of 12 scheduled special events, one for each month of the year.

Accompanying music for most of the anniversary events was provided by organist Gloria Atkinson and Lesley Carter, a talented

pianist from Western Canada, who with her husband Ralph had recently moved to Prince Edward Island. Lesley and Ralph Carter were both very interested in gospel

music, and the organ / piano duets were always special. This was not the Carters’ only contribution. Lesley became the leader and pianist for a popularnew FirstBaptistQuartet,the 'Harbour Lights’, consisting of Ralph Carter, Cleve Myers, Chet MacPhail and Bob Poley. It was the first male quartet organized in the church and was very popular, performing both

”Harbour lights”- First Baptist Quartet

on and Off Prince Edward Island. Back-Bob Paley, leslie Carter (Director), (hetMacPhail In February, Rev. Richard Front: (leveMyers, Ralph Carter Coffin, representing the Canadian (““0”“"0"

Grace Mutch in period dress for historical night

BaptistFederation,spokeataspecialservice.In March, Dr. Robert Berry represented the Canadian Bible Federation, and in April the Lorne White Family from Halifax provided special music. May had a number of extra features, beginning the first week with a sermon by former Pastor Malcolm Harlow and ending with a service conducted by Dr. Harold Mitton. In mid-May, over 400 attended the big anniversary dinner at the CF. Prince Edward Hotel, where the guest speaker was Dr. Murray Armstrong. Preachers for special monthly services for the balance ofthe year included Rev. Ralph Richardson from Atlantic Baptist College, Rev. Ross Howard and his father Rev. Wilfred Howard, Rev. Gordon Poley, Dr. Eugene Thompson and four

139