First United Methodist Church of Columbus was thrilled to celebrate the 50th birthday of Moller Opus 8406 Pipe Organ in 2002. This beautiful work of craftsmanship has become known as the "Golden Memorial" Pipe Organ. Although the Moller company is no longer in business, they hold the distinction of building more pipe organs for churches and concert halls than any other organ company in the United States. The organ was a gift to the church from the Walter Golden family in 1952. This beautiful three-manual pipe organ consists of four divisions: the Swell, Great, Choir, and Antiphonal. The special inclusion of the Antiphonal organ permits music to come from the rear of the balcony when especially soft music is desired.

The Opus 8406 was dedicated to the service of our Lord in a ceremony held on April 26, 1953, and has served this church nobly for the past 53 years. Robert Stofer of Cleveland, Ohio, was guest organist for this very special event. In August of 2002, as a result of a special bequest to the church by Lorene Golden Essex, a rejuvenation project was begun to help the organ serve the congregation effectively into the new century. This project included the addition of four new digitally generated electronic voices in the pedal division to provide the deep rumbling tone that fills out the full-organ sound, a new flute voice for the Antiphonal organ, and an "Imperial Tuba" to furnish the crowning glory for the organ's majestic harmonious sound.

The new Millennial Bells, commonly referred to as a Zimbelstern (bell star), are especially joyful and are a gift from Dr. and Mrs. Charles R. Lamb.      It is interesting to note that the original purchase price of the "Golden" organ was $36,719.28, with a current replacement cost in the event of a disaster - a half million dollars, making it the single most valuable piece of equipment in the building. This was quite a deal in 1952, considering each of the 2000 pipes is hand made and the hundreds of moving parts and controls were individually installed and adjusted. Join us on Sunday for the 9:00 a.m. Traditional Service at First United Methodist Church to experience for yourself the joyful music that the Moller Opus 8406 "Golden Memorial" Pipe Organ brings to our worship service!