A Legacy of Mission and Ministry
In 2023, Friedens United Church of Christ celebrated 165 years of mission and ministry! Led by dedicated church leadership, Friedens, meaning "peace" in German, was organized in 1858 by German-speaking Lutheran and Reformed individuals from Sumneytown and the surrounding area.
A History of Unity
We began as a "union" church, serving both Lutheran and German Reformed congregations. In 1957, the Lutheran congregation relocated, and we continued as a German Reformed church.
Uniting for a Greater Purpose
Unity in Christ
The United Church of Christ (UCC) embraces the motto “that we may all be one” (John 17), reflecting Christ’s teaching of unity among all peoples. While UCC churches encompass a variety of traditions, they primarily identify as “one in Christ.”
A Source of Christian Nurturing
For over 165 years, Friedens Sumneytown has served as a source of Christian nurturing, dedicated to preaching, teaching, and living the gospel of Jesus Christ through worship, prayer, and fellowship.
Outreach & Service
Engaging in Mission Work
Our "Missions R Us" Team is actively involved in fundraising and organizing mission trips and activities, both locally and globally. For over 20 years, we have sponsored and participated in several impactful trips, including visits to Haiti, New Orleans, the Back Bay Mission in Mississippi, Heifer Project International, and Re-Member on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota.
Commitment to Service
Our Mission team embarked on a trip to Back Bay Mission in Biloxi, Mississippi, in September 2023 for a week of volunteer service. We are already planning a return trip in 2024. Additionally, we have previously assisted in preparing and serving meals for the needy at Trinity UCC in Pottstown and at the First Monday Community Meal in Pennsburg.
Worship & Music
A Cornerstone of Our Community
Worship stands as the cornerstone of our faith community at Friedens United Church of Christ. It serves as the foundation for all other activities, bringing us together before God to offer praise and thanksgiving, share in the sacraments of Holy Communion and Baptism, and receive all of God’s grace in Christ.
Enriching Worship Through Music
Our worship services are enriched by the contributions of our Adult Choir and intergenerational Bell Choir. These musical ensembles regularly enhance our worship experience, adding depth and beauty to our gatherings.
Faith Formation
- Vacation Bible School Book Group
- Study Group with St. John's
- Worship Series
- PSEC Conference Offerings
Our Leadership
Consistory President, Alec Hoffman
Alec Hoffman serves as our Consistory President, providing leadership and guidance to our congregation.
Organist & Choir Director, Gia Padfield
Gia Padfield enriches our worship experience as our Organist and Choir Director, guiding our musical expressions of faith.
Pastor, Rev. Stephanie Anne Thompson
Rev. Stephanie Anne Thompson leads our congregation with compassion and wisdom, guiding our spiritual journey.
Connect With Us
For any questions or to contribute to our mission endeavors at Friedens United Church of Christ, please reach out at (215) 234-4941. Get in touch today!
We began as a "union" church, serving both Lutheran and German Reformed congregations. In 1957, the Lutheran congregation relocated, and we continued as a German Reformed church.
In the 1930s through 1957, the German Reformed Church merged with the Evangelical Church, forming the Evangelical and Reformed Church. Another significant union took place in 1957, when the Congregational Church united with the Evangelical and Reformed Church to form the United Church of Christ (UCC).