WOOLWICH TWP. – Old Stone Church, built in 1793 and one of the oldest Methodist churches in South Jersey, will hold its annual anniversary service on Sunday, May 18 at 3 p.m.
Old Stone is located two miles northwest of Swedesboro, just off Route 322 at the intersection of Stone Meeting House and Oak Grove Roads.
Bethesda United Methodist Church in Swedesboro serves as caretaker for its “Mother Church”. This old brownstone church was built in 1793 by local farmers who needed a place nearby to worship. It remains very much the same today as it was 232 years ago, lit only by oil lamps and warmed only by the worshippers. (Sorry, no bathroom facilities).
A full program with message by Dan Stephens, who always delivers a wonderful message, and hymn singing is planned. These year’s message will be “Living with Purpose”. he congregational singing will be accompanied by the 130-year-old harmonium Scottish reed pipe organ, which is operated by pedals requiring both hands and strong legs.
The public is most welcome and invited to share in this occasion. Light refreshments and fellowship will follow the service. Please note that the Strawberry Festival will be on June 1 from 3 to 5 p.m.
3 Responses
I was wondering if there is a way to access the church records for burials as the Gloucester County Historical Society records indicate that Oak Grove Cemetery and Clanton Cemetery burial records should be in the church records. Both Burial grounds share the name Oak Grove and Oak Lawn depending on the records being reviewed. The Name Clanton African American Cemetery seems to appear in records between 2000-2010 with no historic reference. My work with correcting burial records in the two cemeteries cannot be completed until I can rectify who was buried where with regards to the two burial locations.
Old Stone Church Cemetery is located on Stone Meeting House Road in Woolwich Township. You can contact the Bethesda UM Church in Swedesboro for any information. I am not aware of either of the other two mentioned cemeteries. Are you sure they are located in the 08085 area?
This is a small cemetery on Oak Grove Road between Route 322 and Stone Meeting House Road. I don’t know who it is affiliated with, though.