“Great Is Thy Faithfulness” is a be- loved Christian hymn with lyrics cel- ebrating God’s steadfast love. That’s why Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church chose its title for the theme of its 175th anniversary celebration.
“We started thinking about God’s faithfulness to us as a congregation,” says Mary Chesters, anniversary committee chair and 18-year church member.
The East Petersburg church has a slew of anniversary celebrations scheduled. They kick off Sunday and continue on Oct. 2, 9, 16 and 23. A variety of events will take place each Sunday to honor the church’s long- standing history at its original loca- tion, 1905 Broad St., East Petersburg.
Founded in 1847, the church had just 16 members at the time of its inception. By 1960, membership grew to 425. Today, there are 208 members.
“The building underwent several remodeling projects over the years, from its first electric lights to the addition of a choir room in the 2000s.
Today, the three-floor brick building ncludes the sanctuary, office, class- rooms, library, choir room and fellow- ship hall. A cemetery and memorial garden are located behind the church.
Church historian and 31-year church member Kim Gable did extensive research about the church.
“She created a wonderful historical museum in our library with photos and pictures to chronicle the past 175 years,” Chesters says.
Pastor Carnes will be leading a seven-week Bible study on Galatians and Philemon—Wednesdays 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. The Bible study will be in the Narthex and also on Zoom.
We are a congregation serving Lancaster County for more than 150 years with a ministry of worship, education, fellowship, and Christian service. This is Christ’s church. There is a place for you here.
Our Church Family at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church is a nurturing community of believers. We worship and praise God and embrace the guidance of the Holy Spirit. We share our time and talents to enrich our church experience through personal commitment and involvement.
As part of our Zion Community Outreach, we feature Grab & Go meals that are served each Monday of the year from 11:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m.
The Zion Ep Congregational Meeting will be held on Sunday, November 13, 2022.
Pastor Carnes will be leading a seven-week Bible study on Galatians and Philemon—Wednesdays 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. The Bible study will be in the Narthex and also on Zoom.
The Zion Clothing Bank is available every Monday from 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or by appointment—call the Parish Office at (717) 569-1359. Donations are greatly appreciated throughout the year.
This is a no-contact option to ensure the safety of all participants. Zion partners with other local churches and groups from our area to prepare and serve the meals.
Sunday, September 11 : We will have our kick-off Sunday with a potluck picnic after the church service in the fellowship hall. There will be games and activities. Look for a sign up sheet on the bulletin board.
Sunday, September 11 : We will share the history and symbolism of our stained glass windows. This will be done during announcements. We will learn about the two windows behind the altar (September 11). Others will be shared on the remaining Sundays in September and some in October.
Saturday, September 17 : Zion EP is participating in East Pete Day Parade with a truck.
Sunday, October 2 : The Vocal Harmonix will perform a concert at 3:00 p.m. in the church sanctuary.
Sunday, October 9 : Pastor Chris Rankin from Trinity UCC will be preaching.
Sunday, October 16 : Pastor Beth Martini assistant to the Bishop of the Lower Susquehanna Synod
Sunday, October 23 : Special Church Service with communion and specific readings for an anniversary celebration. Former Zion EP pastors have been invited to participate in the service. A catered event will be held at Bent Creek Country Club after the church service. It will be a luncheon buffet and brief program. The cost of this meal is $20 for adults, $14 for children—ages 12 and under. Tickets are on sale.
As an ongoing part of the 175th celebration, the history of our church and event pictures will be on display via slideshows on the TV, bulletin board and a mini museum in the church library.
In Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, Hurricane Fiona brought torrential rainfall and devastating flooding to the islands. Almost five years after Hurricane Maria, Puerto Rico is again experiencing an island-wide blackout and damaged buildings & infrastructure. Lutheran Disaster Response is working with the Caribbean Synod to develop immediate relief.
In Alaska, the remnants of Typhoon Merbok have caused widespread flooding along the state’s western coast. This was one of the worst storms in recent decades in Alaska, with strong waves and heavy rainfall damaging homes, seawalls, roads and other infrastructure. Officials are planning a quick relief period before the water freezes.
In Japan, Typhoon Nanmadol hit Kyushu, the country’s southernmost main island. At least two people were killed and dozens more injured in the storm, which moved northward over Honshu. Wind gusts of more than 145 miles per hour and heavy rainfall caused at least one landslide— damaging homes and businesses.
In Papua New Guinea, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake hit on September 11, with ensuing aftershocks. At least three people died. There is a strong Lutheran presence in the impact area, including a Lutheran nursing school connected to the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Papua New Guinea that was damaged in the earthquake.
In Pakistan, the summer monsoon flooding is causing a widespread humanitarian crisis. The flooding has killed 1,500 people and an approximate 7 million people may be displaced. Lutheran Disaster Response is contributing to an ACT Alliance appeal that addresses the needs of flooded communities.
These are the disasters that made the biggest headlines. There are countless smaller disasters that do not make the news. With your gifts to the Lutheran Disaster Response general fund, we can respond to as many as possible—whenever and wherever they strike.
Our Sunday worship begins at 10:30 a.m.
The Holy Eucharist is celebrated the first Sunday of every month and on the Festival Sundays of the liturgical year. A nursery for young children is provided each Sunday and at all summer worship.
Members are invited to volunteer to serve in one or more of the following ways as part of the congregational worship team: Acolyte; Torch; Cross and Bible Bearers; Altar Care/Altar Guide; Assisting Minister; Usher; Greeter. Sign-ups for volunteer positions and times of service are in the main building hallway.
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