Richfield church celebrates 180 years
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RICHFIELD -- Central Pennsylvania is steeped in tradition and history. From America's earliest days and its fight for independence to the present, the region has played a part in our country's chronicle. By 1842 in the United States, Mexican troops invaded Texas, wagon trains were heading west on the Oregon Trail and a local church had its beginnings in Juniata County.
Richfield United Church of Christ, originally Lutheran Evangelical Reform Church, dates its origins to March 17, 1842. The church is in the midst of a year-long celebration of its 180th anniversary serving Richfield and surrounding communities. What began in March extends through March, 2023.
Carolyn Strawser, church secretary and a member of the congregation for 60 years, has witnessed a lot of the church's history. Today, however, she sees a drop in the number of followers.
"We're a small church," Strawser said. "It's an older congregation. A lot of people in their sixties. There are not many younger people."
The church had gone through many transformations before becoming the United Church of Christ in 1957. Previous houses of worship have been replaced by the current church, built in 1993.
"We do a lot for the community," Strawser said. "Our 'Kindness Cupboard' is for anyone in need."
The 'Kindness Cupboard' in front of the church allows community members to donate items. Those who need a helping hand are allowed to take what is needed free of charge.
We do other things like the prayer box for people in need, Dutch Days and Christmas in the Park," Strawser said. "During Dutch Days, we provided backpacks for the kids."
Serving meals to the less fortunate was also a tradition at the church until a few years ago.
"Before COVID, we served a breakfast buffet once a month for anyone in the community."
The pandemic put an end to the breakfast program, but Strawser hopes to resume serving again someday.
"Maybe again in the future," she said.
The small congregation employs a minister from Northumberland County. Pastor Tammy Gessner lives in Coal Township near Shamokin. Dan Martin, president of the constituency, is also a lay minister.
The church may be small, but it continues to serve the area well. The celebration of 180 years at the Richfield United Church of Christ continues through next March. For more information contact the church at (717) 694-3310 or email richfieldu.c.c@gmail.com.