History
The people comprising St. Paul’s United Church of Christ congregation emanate from many walks of life. Thus it is that numerous and varied talents are combined to form the basis for a vigorous organization. Above all, St Paul’s consists of people who strive toward the Christian life and who eagerly seek to share their faith with others. A friendly outreach has become synonymous with the people of St. Paul’s. On May 18, 2003, St. Paul’s UCC became an ‘open and affirming’ congregation, welcoming any and all. “No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you’re welcome here.”
St. Paul’s traces its origin to the beliefs and principles of the leaders of the 16th century Protestant Reformation, to Germany and England where pioneers of the present United Church established freedom to worship God according to the dictates of conscience. St. Paul’s “Mother Church” is the historic Peace Church located near Camp Hill.
1863 –The congregation’s second home was located at the corner of Frederick and Locust Streets in Mechanicsburg.
1957 – As a member of the United Church of Christ, St Paul’s is an offspring of the Evangelical and Reformed Church and the Congre-gational Christian Churches. This was the first modern merger of major Protestant denominations in the USA.
1970 – The Rev. Thomas E Herrold began his ministry.
1975 – St. Paul’s moved to their present location. Phase I of the building project was completed, and on March 2, 1975, the first worship service was held in the multi-use area of the Christian Education portion of the building.
1976 – Phase II construction was begun and completed, and the sanctuary was dedicated in October of that year. The Rev. Dr. Herrold received his doctorate from Lancaster Theological Seminary.
1984 – The 16th Annual Bazaar was held in the new fellowship hall and renovated areas, Phase III of a three-phase building program. Also this year, a relationship with St. Mary’s Church in Brandshagen, Germany, was begun. Pastorin of this church was Rosemarie Raabe. Various types of support were given over the years to this congregation.
1990 – While on sabbatical, Dr. and Mrs. Herrold traveled again to Germany to visit with the Raabes.
1991 – With the collapse of the Berlin Wall at the end of 1989, it became possible for the Raabes to visit with us. Also that year, a Director of Christian Education and Youth Ministries was hired.
1993 – A Columbarium and Memorial Garden was built on the property near the sanctuary. Rev. Anna L. Thompson, life member of the church, was ordained to the Christian ministry.
2000 – The 50th anniversary of Mary Wrightstone as organist of St. Paul’s was celebrated.
2003 – Became an “Open and Affirming” congregation, welcoming all to worship.
2005 – The Rev. Thomas Herrold retired after 35 years of service to St. Paul’s. Interim pastor, Rev. Karin Stork-Whitson, served the congregation while the search committee diligently reviewed candidates for a settled pastor.
2008 – Rev. John Ward-Diorio began his ministry with St. Paul’s in January, coming from First Parish Curch Congreational, UCC in Freeport, Maine. On May 18, 2008, the official installation of Rev. Ward-Diorio was held.