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Guilford Park Presbyterian Church is holding a rummage and bake sale from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday to benefit the church’s organ-restoration fund.

The church is not replacing the organ, only making repairs and replacing some of the pipework.
“While our church supports a thriving contemporary worship service, there is an equally strong and well-attended traditional worship service where the organ is integral to the musical offering,” said Bill Allred, director of music ministries.

Allred said there is a strong connection between the congregation and the instrument, which was installed in 1959.

“Many people in the church were members when the organ was purchased and remember the sacrifices, work and commitment that were part of the decision to purchase a pipe organ,” Allred said. “For many, worship would be lacking without the sound of a pipe organ.”

The cost of repairs is $80,000, and so far the church has raised $57,000.
 

“Pipe organs are built to last many generations, and some European instruments are several hundred years old,” Allred said.

The cost to replace a comparable instrument would be about $400,000, Allred said.
“We believe that our organ is of high quality, of significance among organs in the area and is worth the effort of refurbishment,” he said.

“It is a unique and valuable work of art that should be preserved for many future generations.”
The rummage and bake sale will be held in the church fellowship hall with all proceeds going to the restoration fund.

The rummage sale will include items such as furniture, clothing, sports equipment, bikes, books, CDs, DVDs, tools, toys, collectibles, Christmas decorations, games, appliances and housewares, jewelry and baby equipment. The bake sale will include drinks and homemade treats such as cakes, pies, cookies and brownies.

“We have something for people of all ages,” said sale co-chairwoman Jenny Beale. “In this tough economy, we feel like everyone is watching their pennies, and every penny raised goes to a great cause.”

Contact Jennifer Atkins Brown at 574-5582 or jennifer.brown@ news-record.com.