Germantown Church of the Brethren Dedicates 300th Anniversary Plaque

Germantown Church of the Brethren in Philadelphia, Pa., celebrated Reunion Sunday and the dedication of a 300th Anniversary plaque on July 28. The event included worship, a lunch served in the church’s front yard, and a Plaque Dedication and Awards Presentation. The day was marked by joy, celebration, stories, thanksgiving, fellowship, and the presence of the Holy Spirit. The congregation is led by pastor Richard Kyerematen.

During worship, pastor Barbara Elizabeth Short-Clark shared reflections from the recent Annual Conference, connecting the legacy of Alexander Mack, founder of the Brethren movement, to the present and future ministry of the church. She emphasized the importance of remembering the past while remaining committed to the mission of the present.

Pastor Kyerematen spoke about the Church of the Brethren’s core beliefs, highlighting its non-creedal nature and commitment to the scriptures, particularly the New Testament. He emphasized baptism, the Priesthood of All Believers, service, peace, and simplicity as central to the church’s identity.

Pastor Timothy Latiff, who works at a nonprofit in Virginia, shared his personal journey to Germantown through his undergraduate studies at Valley Forge Christian College. He reminded the congregation of the transformative impact of the church on their lives and called for a deeper encounter with Jesus through the community.

A community cookout and performance by the Magic Drill Team preceded the plaque unveiling. The bronze plaque, honoring the 300th anniversary of God’s faithfulness, was hung on the front exterior wall of the Old Meetinghouse. The event also included the distribution of Certificates of Appreciation to those who contributed to the anniversary celebrations.

Earl Ziegler, who served as district executive minister during Kyerematen’s call to Germantown, played a key role in the plaque dedication. Former pastor Ron Lutz and his wife, Ila, and Atlantic Northeast District executive minister Pete Kontra also attended the event. The celebration marked a year-long observance of the church’s 300th anniversary, with services, programs, and activities throughout 2023.

Source: Read the original report