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April 13 Today in OPC History

Howard Porter

2023

 

On April 13, 1997, the members of Calvary OPC in Glenside, Pennsylvania honored ruling elder Howard A. Porter with a "Resolution of Thanks and Appreciation" for his service. Until macular degeneration robbed him of much of his eyesight, Mr. Porter served Calvary Church in many roles, including serving as organist for thirty-five years.

Born in 1918 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Mr. Porter married Margaret Chambers, a member of Calvary, in 1946. The Porters moved to Baltimore, Maryland and worshiped at St. Andrews OPC [later "First" OPC] where he served as the treasurer, a trustee and pianist.

The Porters moved back to Philadelphia in 1950 and were received into membership at Calvary—then worshiping above the old library of Westminster Theological Seminary. Calvary's new church building was under construction at that time across the street on the corner of Church Road and Willow Grove Avenue.

On April 30, 1952, the Session placed Mr. Porter in nomination before the congregation for the office of ruling elder and he was elected. On June 22, 1952 he was ordained and installed, joining Pastor Robert L. Atwell and Elders Harry Greiner, Samuel W. White, Murray Forst Thompson, William B. Gaillard and Herman L. Steen on the session.

At Calvary, Mr. Porter also served as Sunday School Superintendent for ten years, the treasurer for twenty-two years, and a trustee for thirty years. He also served the Presbytery of Philadelphia and the General Assembly of the OPC as a commissioner and member of standing committees. Mr. Porter retired as a ruling elder on June 30, 2002, after 50 years, and joined the Church Triumphant in 2007.

From the Resolution: "May the King of kings and Lord of lords continue to provide us with such godly men to spend their lives laboring in His Kingdom for His Name's sake."

Picture: Howard and Peggy Porter

 

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