First Church Ringers is launching our Give-A-Bell Campaign for a new set of Malmark Handbells!

Our History

First Church has a long history of ringing, with our original set of Whitechapel bells dating back to 1955. After nearly 70 years of service, the mechanism and handles of these bells are in need of expensive restoration. Faced with the choice of restoring our original bells or investing in a new set, a new set of Malmark bells was the clear choice.

Why now?

First Church Ringers are thriving under the direction of Jennifer Fry. For the 2023-2024 season, we have rented a set of Malmark bells for a “test drive” of sorts. Nearly all of our ringers have expressed how much more comfortable and pleasant it has been playing this temporary set. We want to invest in the continued growth of this important ministry.

Why Malmark?

Weight: The bass bells crafted by Malmark are significantly lighter than our current set, making them easier to ring and reducing the risk of injury.

Comfort: The handles of the Malmark bells are made of clear plastic, rather than leather, making it impervious to perspiration and allowing a firmer grip and control while playing.

Tuning: Most handbell music is written with American bells in mind. The tuning of our English bells resulted in often-discordant sounds in performance.

Guarantee: All new Malmark bells include a lifetime warranty on the complete handbell.

How much will this cost?

The total cost for new bells is approximately $40,000. The Whitechapel bells will be sold for $25,000, covering a significant portion of that expense. We hope to raise at least $25,000 toward this project. Gifts beyond what is needed will be used to add a 7th, lowest octave to our Choirchimes, and for other Handbell needs in future years.

What will happen to the Whitechapel bells?

Rather than leave the Whitechapel bells in storage, we have decided to sell them to Malmark, where we hope they will find use in the future. A plaque will be placed in the Bell Room commemorating the gifts made in years past for the Whitechapel bells.

When will this happen?

We hope to complete fundraising by the beginning of April, and hope to have delivery of our new bells in May of 2024. Director of First Church Ringers, Jennifer Fry, and Minister of Music, Joshua Stafford, will travel to the Malmark factory to inspect each of the new bells before their arrival at First Church.

How can I give a bell?

Naming opportunities are available for all 61 bells, in amounts ranging from $250-$2,000 per bell. Each bell can be inscribed with three lines of text up to 30 characters each. Donors may choose to name multiple bells if desired. Gifts at lower amounts will be commemorated, but will not receive bell inscriptions. You are invited to email music@first-church.org or call 614-228-1741 x112 to discuss giving opportunities.

If you’d like to support this campaign, you can give online using the form on this page, selecting “Instruments Worship” from the dropdown menu.

Alternately, a check with “Handbells” in the memo line may be mailed to:

First Congregational Church
444 E Broad St
Columbus, OH 43215

Our Minister of Music will be in touch with you to confirm your desired bell and desired inscription.