This past Sunday the St. John’s Family celebrated the 98th birthday of a very special lady and our eldest parishioner, Ruth McDivitt. Ruth was surprised with a cake featuring a photo of St. John’s 1933 Girls Basketball Team of which she was a member, a basketball signed by St. John’s friends, and a rousing rendition of “Happy Birthday.” The basketball was presented by Dave Martin whose father coached Ruth’s 1933 team.
In addition to basketball, as a teenager Ruth also participated in several choirs at St. John’s, was a member of the drama club The Masquers of St. John’s, and was a camp counselor at the Episcopal Church’s Camp Betty Washington in York.
Born Dec. 7, 1916, Ruth has been a parishioner her entire life — baptized, confirmed and married at St. John’s. Ruth and her late husband Bob raised their family at St. John’s. Sons Skip and Michael served as acolytes and crucifers. Daughter Patti sang in the choir and is currently our parish secretary.
For many years, Ruth was a Sunday School teacher and was active in the Episcopal Church Women, St. John’s Bazaar, and the birthday card ministry — all reflecting her deep faith.
The next time you see Ruth, ask her to tell you what happened on her birthday on Dec. 7, 1941 as she was leaving church at St. John’s.
Happy Birthday, dear Ruth!
