Is 150 years a long time? In human terms, yes. In God's realm, well, maybe not so much.

But either way it's reason to celebrate.

Oregon Community United Methodist Church (OCUMC) is acknowledging, honoring and celebrating its 150th anniversary. Exactly 15 decades of praying, enhancing lives and saving souls.

"This is a church that always made sure people had food on their tables and welcomed back veterans who served their country," said Jason Perkowski, OCUMC's pastor for the last eight years. "We make space for people of all backgrounds. We're a church that serves today in a modern context. One hundred and fifty years represents all of that, and we're still growing, adapting and learning while holding onto the things that matter."

In honor of its milestone, OCUMC is throwing a wingding of a party, and you're invited to attend free of charge.

All of it will go down on Saturday, June 22, from 2 to 6 p.m. on the grounds of OCUMC's quaint chapel at 1214 Creek Road, Lititz. After all the fun, games and fellowship, OCUMC will conduct an inside worship service at 6 p.m., followed by a dessert reception in its fellowship hall.

"Our church is vibrant and alive, and our congregation loves God, loves each other and loves their neighbors," said Perkowski. "They are prepared for their ministry for decades ahead. Everyone is welcome to come and be part of the story. We want people to come as they are. Everyone is welcome to come and be loved. There are so many people in Lancaster County who are looking for a place to belong."

The 150th celebration of OCUMC will feature live music, food, drinks, yard games like cornhole and washers, giveaways and a bounce house. Between 200 and 300 people are expected to attend.

"Our dream is that that day people are going to come and spend time meeting their neighbors," said Perkowski. "I'm hoping people are going to be laughing and telling stories. I'm hoping there will be the noise of games and children and memories. In the sanctuary during the service, hopefully there will be sounds of singing and celebrating that God is good."

"Too often we get focused on day-to-day struggles," he continued. "There is a lot of good, a lot of joy, a lot of blessings. We, as humans, need to take time to celebrate those gifts. God continues to meet our needs and bring joy to our lives."

In 1874, the modest church was built as a place of worship for the residents of the village of Oregon. Over the last century and a half, Manheim Township has grown up around it.

Some 14 years after its founding, OCUMC became affiliated with the United Methodist Church. Today, OCUMC includes a congregation of 50 worshipers, a weekly Sunday service, adult Bible study and a youth ministry.

"If you think about 150 years ... that's five generations of people being raised in that church," said Perkowski. "There's life in this space. The congregation is made up of good, salt-of-the-earth people who are welcoming. That's been the story of Oregon Community Church. People feel loved and accepted. That's the heartbeat of this church."

For additional information about Oregon Community United Methodist Church, go to http://www.oregoncommunityumc.us.