On Nov. 17, 1912, 23 Presbyterians, seeking a church closer to home, were approved by the Fayetteville Presbytery to form a new church to be named West End Presbyterian Church.

On that day 100 years later, nearly 300 people gathered to mark this historic event. Included in that number were more than 50 descendants of the charter families, who were recognized during the program. Remembrances and reflections of the past and a look toward the future focused on the fine music program, leadership by both volunteers and staff over the years, and an active and energetic mission program.

This event was the culmination of a yearlong celebration at the church, kicked off in the fall of 2011 with the publication of the "Centennial Cuisine" cookbook. Other publications included a centennial church directory and a historical booklet that was given to all families and guests at the celebration.

A major project undertaken by the Centennial Celebration team was the creation of three large historical panels depicting the history of the church over the past century, which will be a permanent display.

During 2012, several events took place. The first service in the sanctuary was held on March 25, 1922. That date fell on a Sunday in 2012 as well, and charter and early family descendants shared with the congregation a special worship service and luncheon.

In April, a historical tour, "Tracing Our Roots," was held. Following a presentation on the history of this area, participants took a narrated walking tour of old West End followed by a trip to Jackson Springs and Bensalem Presbyterian Churches, where the charter members had previously held memberships. The tour ended at the Old Scottish Burial Grounds to view the gravestones of the Scots who settled in Moore County in the 1700s.

In October, the Centennial team partnered with the Mission team and the deacons to host a "Stop Hunger Now" packaging event. More than 80 children and adults of all ages, ranging from preschoolers to 80-somethings, participated in this intergenerational mission program.

"This centennial year at West End Presbyterian Church was one of celebration and blessings all year long," says a spokesman.