ALLEN/REUTER Combination Pipe Organ

“Every organist dreams of the day when someone will say: ‘I’d like to buy a pipe organ for our church.’  My dream came true in November, 1999, when Don and Bara Colegrove told me of their desire to give a pipe organ to First Presbyterian, Richardson. The Colegroves wanted to use money that they had inherited to give the organ in honor of their parents. After hearing of the gift, the Session quickly appointed an organ Selection Committee and they began work reading, learning and listening. During the spring of 2000, Stan and Ginny Holcomb and Sanford Mitchell came forward with gifts that would make additional ranks possible on the organ.

“During July of 2000, the Organ Selection Committee made the unanimous decision to sign a contract with the Reuter Organ Company of Lawrence, Kansas and Church Organ Associates of Dallas (Allen Organ Company). Given the space limitation, the inclusion of digital voices was deemed appropriate to increase the flexibility of the instrument as well as meeting the musical needs of our diverse-music program. All of the donors were in complete support of these decisions…

“What an exciting and joyous adventure this entire process has been! Through it all, the congregation of First Presbyterian Church has shown its love and support through prayer, the sharing of excitement, and willingness to help in many ways. They have agreed to serve on committees, help unpack pipes, clean the Sanctuary, and handle many other necessary chores. This organ will serve to enhance the worship of our Lord for generations to come. How grateful we are for the privilege of having such a glorious instrument. How grateful I am to be in this place at this time.”

Soli Deo Gloria!

Shirley Grubbs Latham, Organist
First Presbyterian Church, Richardson