How it all started...
Our little church began on Market Street in late 1849. The property was purchased from Rev. David Hull, who then became the church's first pastor. The original two-story brick building served both EPC and Elysburg Academy as classroom space until 1889, when continued growth led to the demolition of the existing structure to make way for a larger church.
By 1950, a new wing was added to accommodate a congregation that had doubled in size. This addition included Christian Education classrooms and a basement social hall.
This little brick church in the center of town has been a cherished gathering place for generations of Elysburg residents. It has hosted countless events, dinners, outreach programs, and children's ministries of the years.
By 1950, a new wing was added to accommodate a congregation that had doubled in size. This addition included Christian Education classrooms and a basement social hall.
This little brick church in the center of town has been a cherished gathering place for generations of Elysburg residents. It has hosted countless events, dinners, outreach programs, and children's ministries of the years.
Expanding the vision...
During the late 1970s and 1980s, the church on Market Street had become increasingly crowded, and parking next to the building was limited. It was agreed that, in order to have a more focused presence in the community and to offer additional services- such as childcare, meeting rooms for local organizations, youth activities, and a larger, handicap accessible parking area- a new site was needed.
Once the decision was made, fundraising efforts began. The building fund grew quickly, land was donated, contractors were secured, and many volunteers offered their time and talents. Within a few years, the vision became a reality. A new church was built at 320 W. Valley Avenue in Elysburg.
What a blessing! The entire endeavor became a fellowship with God and within the congregation, grounded in much prayer. It was a time of great praise and rejoicing when the first worship service was held in the new building.
Once the decision was made, fundraising efforts began. The building fund grew quickly, land was donated, contractors were secured, and many volunteers offered their time and talents. Within a few years, the vision became a reality. A new church was built at 320 W. Valley Avenue in Elysburg.
What a blessing! The entire endeavor became a fellowship with God and within the congregation, grounded in much prayer. It was a time of great praise and rejoicing when the first worship service was held in the new building.
Where we are headed...
Much has changed over the years since then. The church joined ECO several years ago and is now again preparing for a new phase in our walk with the Lord. A new witness to the community and a greater outreach to all members of the congregation. As the older generation that built this church advises the younger generation that is coming forward to carry our congregation through challenging changes. Not only are there physical changes (the building ages also), but as the congregation looks forward again with a new focus and innovative ideas the church will have a presence in the community for all, and a vibrant praise and worship center for all members to glorify God together.
