Easter at St. Edward’s: A Journey of Faith
Easter has always been at the heart of St. Edward’s—but in the early years, it was more than a celebration. It was a testament to faith, determination, and a community that refused to wait for “perfect” conditions to worship.
1956 — Easter in Temporary Quarters
On April 1, 1956, parishioners gathered for Easter not in their church, but in the Masonic Temple in downtown Mount Dora, their temporary home. Seventy-two people came together that morning, including thirteen children in Sunday School, filling the space with prayer, hope, and joy. Fr. Hargrave was the Priest in Charge.
That Easter also marked meaningful firsts. The newspaper recorded its first mention of an acolyte—Edward Carleton Sherwood. Mrs. Ralph Beach, known as Emma, created new altar hangings used for the first time that day. Even the wine and water cruets told a story, gifted by visitors staying at the Lakeside Inn. Each contribution became part of the fabric of St. Edward’s history.
1959 — The First Easter in the New Church
Three years later, on March 29, 1959, that story took a significant step forward.
On Easter morning, the congregation gathered for the first service in their new church building. Though still unfinished—without pews and with a leaking skylight—nothing could diminish the moment. Just before the 11:00 am service, Fr. Mangrum and Edward Sherwood climbed onto the roof to repair tar paper where rain had begun to drip onto the altar.
Despite these challenges, attendance was overwhelming. More than 400 people came across the three services, with many turned away due to lack of seating. The new church also drew attention from the wider community, as visitors stopped to admire its unique design.
Built on Faith, Carried by Community
What began in borrowed space had become something lasting. But what carried St. Edward’s from 1956 to 1959 was not construction—it was community. A willingness to show up, to serve, to give, and to trust that God was present every step of the way.
That same spirit continues today!
By Ann “Cookie” Brown
A lifelong Episcopalian, Ann “Cookie” Brown joined St. Edward’s in 2010 and soon founded the Prayer Shawl Ministry. She also serves as the church historian and has been actively involved in many areas of parish life, including organizing parish teas, supporting fellowship events, and serving in the kitchen and coffee hour. Cookie has faithfully shared her time and talents in service to the St. Edward’s community for many years.
