Thursday, October 19, 2000 Older Editions

UU Congregation honors couple

Spencer and Jan Johnson, former residents of Andover, will be honored by the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Andover at the worship service on Sunday, Oct. 22. The Johnsons, who lived on Haggetts Pond Road since 1974, recently moved to Mystic, Conn. leaving what congregation members call "a legacy of volunteer service to the Greater Lawrence community."

Among the many local organizations they assisted with are Bread and Roses, People's Pantry, and Andover Community Trust. At the recent ceremony to lay the cornerstone of ACT's first permanently affordable home in Andover, Spencer received a citation of appreciation for his eight years of participation that included the preparation of the architectural plans of the house. Spencer was also active for the last several years in the planning process for an Andover Youth Center and a new location for the Andover Senior Center, and was honored by the Board of Selectmen.

Within the UU Congregation, the Johnsons have been members of various committees and the Board of Directors over the past 25 years. Spencer designed and oversaw the renovation of the lower level of the UU meeting house at 6 Locke St., which is named Johnson Hall in his honor. The hours of work on the property committee alone represent a lifetime of volunteer service, and almost every activity or concern could count on their capable and willing participation.

The Johnsons are to be recognized this Sunday when the worship service is being presented by the social justice committee. Judy Trerotda and Thomas Rice will lead congregation members to examine who in their past has set an example and inspired their hopes and dreams for a more just world, says a release from the church. This discussion will help determine the congregation's agenda for social justice activities in the coming year. A special reception will be held following the worship service.