People come from a variety of educational backgrounds, and we are much more diverse. The active committee structure we have now is a great joy. Old North offers two types of association to those who would become part of the Old North family. Persons who wish to worship and contribute regularly of their time, talent and treasure are welcome to become church members. Members of its national family who wish to support the preservation and maintenance of Old North Church can contribute to the Fellowship of the Lantern Light, receiving a newsletter and a parchment certificate.
Visitors soon fill the church to capacity, and many are turned away at the door each year.
The lantern lighting service combines pageantry and prayer. Period costumes and instruments, patriotic readings, participation by Revere and Newman family descendants and television coverage are part of the event. From Old North's dramatically candle-lit pulpit, Bishop Shaw gives the lantern service address. Bishop M. Thomas Shaw, SSJE gave the address at this year's 223rd service on April 19, which highlighted Old North's unique symbolism of God and country, religion and freedom. Permission to reprint required.