Plymouth Magazine-Fall26-DIGITAL - Flipbook - Page 30
The Plymouth Church Story
Collegial Ministry and a Growing Church
The Rev. James Gilliom came to
Plymouth in 1978 and brought an
open and collegial style of ministry,
encouraging collaboration between
staff and lay leadership. Scripture and
sermon topics were shared with music
and visual arts staff and lay committees,
so they could enhance worship with
complementary musical selections and
artistic chancel displays.
Rev. James Gilliom
30
Demolition of Burling House in 1977.
Widely respected for his eloquent
preaching, Gilliom’s sermons were a
rich tapestry of scripture, quotes from
religious scholars, current literature, and
his personal experiences. He continued
Plymouth’s progressive tradition,
emphasizing service to God through
justice work and striving for community
betterment. He encouraged diversity
in all its forms and promoted gender
equity throughout the church. Under his
leadership, women were invited to serve
as deacons. In 1984, the Rev. Faith V.
Ferré became the first woman minister
at Plymouth, serving as Minister of
Discipleship until 2011.
At a time when most mainline churches
were struggling, Plymouth grew steadily
under Gilliom’s leadership, counting
more than 3,000 members upon his
retirement in early 1994.
This growth required building updates
and renovations. In 1977, the Burling
House was demolished and a new
wing added, providing meeting rooms
(Greenwood and Burling), a windowlined gallery, administrative and music
offices, and Rehearsal Hall.
The Plymouth Foundation was
established in 1979 under the leadership
of Plymouth member James T. McMillian
III, MD, who served as board president
for many years. The foundation’s
purpose is to support the church’s
special financial needs and encourages
growth of its ministries through gifts
made to the Foundation above and
beyond a member’s annual stewardship
commitment. The Foundation continues
to support programs such as Stephen
Ministries, Stepping Stones, and
Transition Into Ministry (TiM), and has
played a major role in every building and
grounds and capital campaign.
Construction of the gallery hallway, rehearsal hall, and staff offices complete.
