In 1823, a small church began in Manheim, with members gathering in homes and meeting houses for worship. That was the foundation of Salem United Methodist Church, which will celebrate its 200th anniversary with a special worship service at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 24. The service will be held at the church, 140 N. Penn St., Manheim.

The public is invited to the service, which will recognize 50-year members and previous pastors. The Salem Singers, a bell choir and a special bell ensemble will perform during the service. The Rev. Jennifer Freymoyer, district superintendent of the church conference, will deliver the message.

From its humble beginnings, Salem United Methodist Church grew steadily. In 1837, the members bought a small lot on North Prussian Street, which is now North Main Street, and erected a small stone structure. In 1883, the church moved a few doors south on Main Street and constructed a framed building. Until 1968, the church was known as Salem United Brethren Church before the Evangelical United Brethren Church and the Methodist Church denominations merged, and Salem became Salem United Methodist Church. The current church on North Penn Street opened its doors in 1973 and is the home to 335 members.

Lisa Palmquist, chair of the church council and director of Salem Family Ministries, said the longevity of the church can be attributed to its involvement in the community. "We really believe in community outreach," she remarked. "One of the ministries we have is our Wednesday night supper. We offer a free meal at 5:30 on Wednesdays from September through May, and that is very popular."

The church also holds a free coat drive in the fall for people of all ages, hosts a Christmas angel tree for families in Manheim Central School District and offers a community Easter egg roll. "We also have a Blessing Box on-site for members of the community, and we hold VBS each year," Palmquist said.

As Salem United Methodist Church looks to the next century, the members are eager to continue embracing the needs of the community.

"We have a very open, welcoming congregation," Palmquist shared. "We invite people to come and check out the church and our family. Our congregation is very family oriented. We welcome children of all ages."

Salem United Methodist Church holds worship services at 9 a.m. on Sundays, followed by Sunday school for people of all ages at 10 a.m. For more information or to inquire about receiving assistance from the church, call the office at 717-665-2331.