COSHOCTON – The Coshocton Presbyterian Church will host a retirement celebration for Charles R. Snyder on Sunday, May 22, at 3 p.m. in the church sanctuary. Snyder retired from the church on Sept. 1, 2020, after 44 years of service.
The delayed celebration for Snyder (due to the COVID-19 pandemic) will include the debut of the anthem "When the Morning Stars Together" by Michael Burkhardt, which was commissioned for the occasion. Burkhardt – organist, composer, professor and clinician – will conduct the premiere. The piece will be accompanied by organ, handbells, timpani and the Roscoe Brass Quintet. Burkhardt will also play the organ during the service.
Hired in 1977 as "assistant to the minister," Snyder served the church in numerous ways – primarily in the music and Christian education ministries.
At its height, the music ministry had nine choirs for singers of all ages starting at the age of three, and for handbell ringers in eighth grade and beyond. For Snyder, another highlight was the Bethel Bible study series that had 200 participants from within the church and the community.
A few other highlights included Vacation Bible Schools (some held at Muskingum Valley Scout Reservation and Lake Park); youth groups; the Stephen Ministry program; midweek programs for people of all ages; Pathfinders - a workshop style Sunday school program for adults; teaching confirmation classes for 25 years; bringing in guest organists from around the country for concerts; a summer concert series; concerts from collegiate ensembles; and directing youth musicals.
For many years, Snyder also assisted with Presbytery committees, edited the church newsletter, filled in at the pulpit, performed funerals, and helped with community-wide services.
Following the celebration in the sanctuary, there will be a light reception in the church fellowship hall. All are welcome to attend this retirement event on Sunday, May 22 at 3 p.m. For more information, contact the Coshocton Presbyterian Church office at 740-622-0486.
