History
The Village Chapel is an independent, interdenominational church, governed by an elected Board of Trustees who are responsible for its day-to-day operations. Two ministers lead our worship services, supervise the Christian Education programs with the assistance of a Christian Education Director, advise many of the Chapel activities, and with the support of a parish nurse care for the spiritual needs of the congregation. The Village Chapel is a primary source of significant benevolence outreach to the needy of Moore County.
The Village Chapel is an outgrowth of the "Pinehurst Religious Association," which dates back to the very beginnings of Pinehurst.
Founder of Pinehurst
The first interdenominational church service was held in 1898. Dr. Edward Everett Hale, author of "Man Without A Country," and good friend of Mr. James Walker Tufts, was invited to be the Chapel's first minister. Dr. Hale and Mr. Tufts envisioned a community where people of various backgrounds could live and worship in Christian love and humanity.
Dr. Edward Everett Hale greeting the faithful
The original Board of Directors of the Pinehurst Religious Association had seven members, representing as many different denominations. Eight ministers have served the Chapel, representing five denominations.
The cornerstone for the Chapel was placed on April 13, 1924, and the first worship service was held on March 1, 1925. Mr. Hobart Upjohn, the architect, won a Diploma of Merit at an international exhibition in Turin, Italy, for the Chapel's graceful colonial design.
 
The Chapel has a newly restored four-manual Cornel Zimmer organ designed by John W. Shannon. It features 80 ranks of pipes and digital sounds with 94 stop controls. It is the largest in Moore County.
The other two buildings that complete The Village Chapel, contain the Administrative Offices, which were dedicated in 1961, and the Chapel Hall which was dedicated in 1991. Between these buildings are the Tufts Memorial Gardens, a lovely place for peaceful meditation.
The Village Chapel congregation is actively involved with thirty committees which serve to strengthen various areas of ministry and outreach. Some of the areas for spiritual growth and service include our Shepherd program, Bible studies, Sunday School for ages three through adult, Vacation Bible School, Youth Group, Gospel Outreach Mission program, Christmas Project, Women and Men of the Chapel groups, fellowship coffees and dinners. You are encouraged to discover more about any program by calling the Chapel office at 295-6003. The office is open weekdays from 8:30 - 4:30 p.m.
A membership roll is maintained for anyone wishing to make the Chapel their church home. Membership is available for all professing Christians. New member classes are held monthly. All are welcome to attend and find out more about this historic Chapel.
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