The beat of a drum probably isn't something you would expect to hear on a Sunday morning, but that's exactly what the church-goers in the pews of the First Congregational Church heard as a start to their worship.

It was all part of the authentic 18th century church service put on by First Congregational on Sunday for the Summer of Celebration. The service included the singing of the "hit" hymns of the time period, as well as period-dress and a period-popular scripture reading.

"Sermons, as you know, used to go on for hours and hours," said Preacher Stan Duncan (in 18th century character) before diving into an abbreviated sermon.

"I would not sit through a two-hour sermon," joked Norma McWilliams, who attended the event.

Throughout the event, Preacher Duncan became Reverend Duncan at several points to explain elements of the history. When it came time for the collection of offering, Duncan explained that oftentimes the offering came in the form of "buying" a pew. The pews could be purchased as such and were then taxed just like any other piece of property.

In addition to the sermon and hymns, church sextant Stephen Chanona read a scripture passage in the voice prescribed by the church etiquette of the times.

"I had to be somber but forceful,'" he said, "and really put it out there in a fierce voice."

"And he played the part well," said McWilliams.

Chanona said that putting the event together was a lot of fun. Preacher Duncan, now just "Stan" off the pulpit, agreed.

"It's a lot of fun to put together," he said. "I've done this kind of service four or five times in other churches."

He added, "Because these churches go back for hundreds and hundreds of years, they want to see services like this that show them that history."

Of course, perhaps without the two-hour sermon.