Author: Susan George

After World War II, Americans looked forward to peace and unity, but it was not to be. The Cold War, as well as the Civil Rights and Women’s Rights Movements disrupted America’s sense of peace and harmony. 

Derry Church, for 300 years, has endeavored to promote peace and welcome all. The decades after the war provided many examples. 

Derry’s pastor, Reverend William Longbrake, who had been called to Derry Church in 1941, helped Derry transition from wartime to peace. During his tenure membership grew from 312 to 533 members.

As membership increased, Derry Church sought to broaden church leadership. In 1947 Session voted to recommend to the congregation that a “Rotary System” be instituted for the election of officers. Traditionally, Elders had been elected by the congregation for three years and could be re-elected immediately to succeed themselves when their terms expired. Under the Rotary System, Elders would not be eligible for re-election for at least one year after serving a full term. This expansion of church leaders continued during the 1950s. In 1957 Derry elected its first women to serve as Deacons. However, it wouldn’t be until 1970 that Derry would elect its first female Elder.

As the United States emerged from World War II, the church began planning to expand the building to meet the needs of a rapidly growing congregation. In 1946 a building committee began assembling a list of wants and needs for a new building. Initially, Derry member Maurice Glace, a draftsman with Hershey Lumber Company, was asked to draw up plans. These plans were reviewed and revised over the next two years, but no final design was approved. 

In 1948, the committee decided that a professional church architect was needed. Derry Church selected C.S. Buchart, a York, Pennsylvania architect, to design an addition to the Chapel. Mr. Buchart designed an addition that matched the original chapel in materials and architectural style while providing a modern plant for educational and social activities. In addition to plans for the Christian Education addition, Mr. Buchart also sketched out a vision to expand the church in the future with a new, larger sanctuary, if the congregation continued to grow at its current rate. 

At a 1950 congregational meeting, members voted to approve plans to add a Christian education wing to the Chapel. Derry broke ground for the addition on October 29, 1950, and the cornerstone was laid on April 22, 1951. The building was dedicated seven months later, on November 11. This was the second addition to the 1884 Chapel, the first being the John Elder Memorial Chapel in 1935. The addition created a new entrance and foyer, and added a nursery and children’s classroom, as well as office space on the main floor. The new lower level had a large social hall and a modern kitchen. The addition made it possible for the church Sunday School to continue to expand with additional classes and provided space for the church to gather together in fellowship.

In 1950 Reverend Longbrake resigned to take another call. He was succeeded by Reverend William Sheldon Blair, who was installed on October 12, 1950. The congregation approved an annual salary of $3,800 plus a contribution to his pension, use of the manse, a car allowance of $400, a one-month vacation, and moving expenses. 

Reverend Blair knew when he accepted the call to Derry Church that a building program to add an Educational Building was planned and that a Building Committee was already in place. During his first years he led the congregation to raise money for the new educational building with a variety of creative activities. Of course, there were congregational pledges, but at that time Hershey Park Pennsylvania Dutch Days had been recently launched (1949) and quickly became a popular week-long summer event. 

Dutch Days created an opportunity for community organizations to support this event. The Dutch Days venue offered limited opportunities for visitors to purchase snacks and meals. Derry Church, located just a few blocks away from Dutch Days activities, offered meals for sale with a Pennsylvania German theme: chicken pot pie, ham and beans, roast beef and filling. The church also provided transportation between the church and Hershey Park to facilitate access. Other fundraising activities included a public Auction Sale in May, 1951 and the distribution of small wooden banks resembling a church (made by men on the Little Church Bank Committee) to children and adults in the congregation to encourage their participation. 

The church’s efforts at fundraising were quite successful. On Thursday, February 2, 1956, just four and a half years after the building had been completed, a Recognition and Mortgage Burning Dinner was held in the new downstairs social room to celebrate the Church’s freedom from mortgage debt.

Derry Church had been built in pieces over the years beginning with the 1884 Chapel, which had been expanded in 1935. The need to replace worn carpeting and do general repairs to the older sections of the church became more obvious after the Christian Education Building was completed in 1951. Session authorized improvements to Derry Church in 1955, old carpeting was replaced, pews and  floors were repaired and a much needed humidifier was also purchased. 

The condition of the 1933 Chapel organ was such that Session members wondered if a new organ should be purchased or if that purchase should wait until when and if a new sanctuary was constructed. 

The early 1950s saw the United States engage in a “cold war” with the Soviet Union and send its military to the Korean conflict. Carlisle Presbytery, concerned about the war, asked its churches to have a day of prayer for men behind the Iron Curtain. 

At home, Hershey struggled with labor relations. In April 1953, Hershey Chocolate workers went out on strike over wages and a demand for a closed Union shop. Seeking to not take sides, at their May 1953 meeting Derry’s Session forbade Reverend Blair from attending any union meetings. 

Reverend Blair resigned from Derry Church in January 1959 to accept another call to a church in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. While a search for his replacement was immediately started, Reverend George Evans served as Interim Pastor. In July Reverend Ira Reed was installed as Derry’s pastor.. The church continued to grow even though it was a time of conflict and division in our nation and the world. 

In addition to his excellent preaching, Reverend Reed is remembered for his organizational leadership and emphasis on neighborhood evangelism. He was actively involved in community organizations and was a member of the Hershey Rotary Club, the Police Advisory Board of Derry Township, and a Trustee of Wilson College (Chambersburg, PA). In addition, he was a PIAA official for wrestling and football. 

Under Reverend Reed’s leadership, Session meetings became more organized, the number of elders, trustees and deacons was increased from eight to 12, and women became part of Derry’s leadership team. In addition, session committees were improved. The arrival of a new and energetic pastor again spurred expansion in Derry’s membership. By 1964 the church had grown to  almost 800 members.

Though political assassination and social disruptions in the nation characterized much of the 1960s, Hershey and Derry Church were little affected. While there was awareness of national events, Derry Church’s concerns focused on the need for more space for Sunday school classrooms and a larger sanctuary to accommodate the growing congregation. In 1962 a building committee was appointed and by the end of 1964 a contract was signed to begin construction. Completed and dedicated in January 1966, the new Sanctuary included the purchase of a new organ. The Reuter organ was dedicated to the memory of a former pastor, Commander George Snavely Rentz, Chaplain, United States Navy. Commander Rentz served Derry 1913-16. He had left Derry in 1916 to serve as a Navy Chaplain during World War I. He continued to serve as Chaplain during World War II. He lost his life when the U.S.S. Houston was sunk during battle. Rentz was one of the last to leave the sinking ship and gave his life so other, younger, sailors might live.

That same year the congregation approved the purchase of a property across the street for the purpose of expanding parking for the church. 

Concurrent with plans to expand church facilities, the need for additional staff was becoming more urgent. Derry’s music program was growing and it was felt that a part-time organist was not sufficient for the church’s needs. In June 1963, the Music Committee recommended hiring an organist and a choir director. Richard Chubb was hired as organist and Virgil Anderson was hired as choir director. 

After a review of Derry’s Sunday School by Carlisle Presbytery, it was recommended that Derry Church hire a part-time administrator. Derry member Harold Reichard volunteered to serve as the chair of the Christian Education program from September 1964 to September 1965. In his report to the Session, Reichard recommended that the position become full-time. In March, 1967 Reverend Robert Murphy was hired as Assistant Minister for Christian Education. Reverend Murphy served two years before resigning to accept another position. A second pastor, Reverend Paul O. Altaner, was hired, but he also resigned after not quite two years. 

Finally, Derry Church created a new position, Director of Christian Education, and hired Nancy Joiner, a recent Grove City College graduate, to fill the position. At the same time Derry Church created a full-time Director of Music position and hired Herb Fowler. Both people brought new energy, ideas, and opportunities for music, youth engagement, and Christian education.

If you’re like me, during the past few weeks you’ve received a lot of messages from political candidates, on both sides, asking for money. In the midst of this, Derry Church is running our own stewardship campaign.

While important issues are on the table in this election, I want to remind everyone that we have the chance, right here, to create something more enduring and powerful through the mission of Derry Church: proclaiming God’s word, sharing God’s love and practicing God’s justice.  We can do this through donating our resources, whether it be our skills, time, or money.

This year’s Stewardship Campaign theme is Share the Love that Shapes Us. I think about how God’s love has shaped me and my family through Derry. Of course, the church is how I met Lee Ann. Natalie, Jacob and Emma all grew up at Derry – active in youth group, choirs, and even the trip this past summer to Northern Ireland – and that has shaped them. Singing in choir, serving on Session, and now as Chair of the Stewardship and Finance committee has shaped me.

Now, how do we share this love with others? That is where your help is needed. As I write this, we are less than half way to reaching our campaign goal. You can help make the mission of Derry Church a reality by providing your estimate of giving either online,  by mailing back the card you received in the mail, or picking up a card at church on Sunday. Or bring the card with you on Sunday and drop it in the offering plate during the service.

I invite everyone to a soup and salad lunch in the Fellowship Hall following the service. There is no charge, but you can bring dessert to share. There will also be a fun activity (with prizes) after lunch!

Thank you and God bless.

Editor’s Note: On the first Thursday of each month (or close to it), the eNews feature article highlights the mission focus for the month. In November we’re lifting up Access to Health Care. 

Every Wednesday, I sit in the waiting room of the medical outreach clinic wearing my clerical collar and a simple sign which reads “Free Prayer.”  I’ve been doing this regularly enough that there are what I call “regulars” who come in to talk and pray with me.  They tell me about their families, their struggles with addiction, trying to stay housed or gain employment, and physical healing they need.  It’s a time I wouldn’t trade for anything.  

One particular Wednesday, the door to the waiting room opened and a man stuck his head in and said, “can someone help me?” The nurses were all occupied on the other side of the clinic and didn’t hear the man. I went over to the door, opened it to the stairway, and found the man sitting on the steps, shirtless.  I said, “Can I help you?”  He responded, “I need a shirt.” It was clear that he needed more than a shirt.  I went and got a nurse to help the man.  It turned out the man had overdosed on a drug.  The nurses helped him as much as they could, which included calling an ambulance for additional assistance.  All this effort saved his life that day.  

Our free dental clinic has been busy as ever. After one particular dental clinic day, the dentist on duty told me that they worked on a patient who required seven extractions which helped prevent infections. That’s a lot of work on one person. And it’s the type of care that will offer healing not just for their mouth but for the whole person.  Thinking about their time at the clinic, this same dentist told me, “I love my days at the clinic.”  

I often talk about Christ Lutheran Church as a wheel, where healing is the axle that everything is connected to.  The health ministries, comprising our three free clinics, offer healing in a variety of ways – physical, mental, and emotional.  They are a vital healing presence in Allison Hill and the larger community. Each month between 800-1000 people visit our clinics to receive this healing.  

In the coming months, we will be undertaking the replacement of some old plumbing that serves the medical outreach clinic. In the spring, we’ll begin much needed repairs to the bell tower which flanks the sidewalk people use to access the medical outreach clinic. We’re also looking forward to hosting another work day for a group of volunteers on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day who will be working on some paint projects. And we are finalizing our plan for an exciting expansion of our dental clinic, moving it from the second floor down to the first floor. This will improve access to care, as well as help us meet more needs. Currently we are only meeting approximately 50% of the need.  

We couldn’t do this without your support. I’m grateful to Derry Church for all the ways that you support the health ministries. You are a blessing and you make the healing possible.

I was born into the church. Baptized at a young age, I can hardly remember a Tuesday afternoon I didn’t spend at Derry during my grade school years. Church gave me many of my fondest memories, and helped me develop many of my proudest character traits. 

Derry gave me a lot, and I tried to give back. I contributed to helping the A/V team, I shared my worship and prayer, and joined in joyous music. However, this all came to a sudden halt when COVID hit. My parents moved to a different church, and I joined them there, but it just wasn’t a fit for me. So I decided to come back to Derry, but I was afraid. It had been well over a year since I had gone. Would I recognize anyone? Would anyone still remember me? Would I be alone in the pews? 

My fears were strong, yet they were no match for the overwhelming love I felt from Derry upon my return. Countless members came up to me to share how overjoyed they were to see me. But this love wasn’t exclusive to those who recognized me. Some didn’t recognize my long hair, my patchy facial hair, and still came up to me with kindness to share with me.

There was so much love that I knew I couldn’t keep it all to myself. I needed to take this love Derry gave me, and share it with the congregation, the community, and even the world at large. I made myself a more active member, working at the A/V desk again, and joinin the youth group on any service events I could attend. And still, Derry kept showing its love for me. Members continued to notice my contributions, and would continually come to me with praise and adoration for even the smallest of things. So I kept contributing as much as I could. I volunteered at VBS and worked as an A/V intern over the summer. 

And still, my cup runneth over. I was able to go to Ireland in June with the Youth Group due to the church’s love for its youth, and its contributions of time and money. There, I was able to help share the word of God, and work on my own personal and professional development. This unrelenting cycle of unconditional love from church to member to community started long ago. I was born into the church, and that was the greatest act of love I can imagine. At a young age, I didn’t realize it, but the love and joy that makes Derry so special was all around me. To middle school Austin, this love actualized itself in the chicken nuggets and mac and cheese at Terrific Tuesdays and I shared my love and joy with the congregation by asking absurd and hilarious questions during the conversation with children (or so I’m told). 

Today, my cycle of love looks very different, and sadly involves less chicken nuggets. But, I hope that my story, and my life, is proof that sharing God’s love for God’s children is a domino effect that can lead to a greater congregation and community, and can even have an impact on the whole world.

With the 1929 stock market crash and the resulting depression, Derry Church faced many challenges including a delay of the planned expansion of the Chapel due to limited funds.

The worldwide economic crisis did not hinder Derry members from continuing the church’s operations and commitment to supporting Christian education and mission work.

Reverend Taylor resigned as Derry’s pastor on June 27, 1932, after serving for 16 years. His reason for resigning was that he felt that Derry Church desired a younger man to lead the church. He was 72 years old.

The next pastor to serve Derry was Reverend John C. Corbin, who was installed as pastor in August 1932. Reverend Corbin was 27 years old and Derry Church was his first call. He brought much energy to his tenure. During his pastorate, his commitment and strong leadership had a dramatic impact on the growth of the church.

Derry Church was fortunate to weather the Great Depression fairly well. Thanks to employment opportunities created by Milton Hershey, Derry was able to meet its financial obligations. Studying the church’s financial records of those years, Derry struggled in 1932, having to reduce the sexton’s salary and other expenses, and make a special plea to the congregation that members satisfy their pledges before the end of the fiscal year. With a new pastor, Derry Church turned the corner in 1933.

Reverend Corbin attracted many new families and began to broaden the church’s charitable contributions. Derry Church began its support of the Newville Home, (established 1928), a Presbyterian home for the elderly and infirm located just west of Carlisle.

Derry began to invest in its music program. Purchasing an organ had been part of the pre-Depression plans to expand the Chapel. In 1933 Derry purchased a three-manual Midmer-Losh organ that had originally been built in 1926 for Thomas A. Edison’s Orange, New Jersey recording studio. Interestingly, it was the organ that Charles Seibert Losh, the organ’s builder, had offered to Derry back in 1928. The purchase was completed in 1933 and installed that summer. A formal recital was given on August 24 by Paul Allwardt, a young, up and coming organist at Union Theological Seminary.

As Sunday school attendance continued to grow and the economy improved, ground was broken for the John Elder Memorial Chapel on January 1, 1935. The addition included four classrooms, a kitchen, and an assembly room. With a $20,000 gift from Milton Hershey, a vestibule was added to the Chapel entrance along with new chancel furniture and architectural elements. The church also installed new carpet and purchased furniture and equipment for the new classrooms. The Chapel was dedicated on December 8, 1935.

With the addition of the new transept, Derry was able to create a choir loft. The choir quickly expanded, growing from a few women to 18 members. Rehearsals began in early 1936 with the hiring of Mrs.Robert Young as director. Choir gowns, donated by the Derry Church Ladies Bible Class, were worn starting the following year. The choir quickly became an integral part of worship, providing special music at both Sunday services (10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.), as well as at several community worship services held at the Community Center’s Little Theater in downtown Hershey.

Prior to the 1935 expansion of the Chapel, the church had limited space for other Sunday activities. Derry Church introduced its first nursery for infants to school age children in November 1937. An article in the November 1937 monthly newsletter read:

Little children are always welcome in Church. They never “bother’ the Minister. Nevertheless, it has come to our notice that many parents are hesitant to bring their children who are under school age into the Church services. Therefore, to free parents of young children for Church attendance, we have established a Church Nursery.

For many years prior to the Depression, Derry Church offered a Sunday evening “Lawn Service” in the summer. In 1936, Lawn Services were reinstituted and featured pastors and speakers from the surrounding region. The Lawn Services became very popular and served as an outreach to the broader Hershey community.

As Derry Church expanded, more lay leadership was needed. Prior the 1938, Derry’s Session consisted of six Elders and six Trustees who also served as Deacons. In 1938 Derry Church voted to establish a separate Board of Deacons, who were charged with the pastoral care of the congregation.

Reverend Corbin also encouraged Derry Church’s interest and support of missions. Through the missionary program of Derry Church and the Presbyterian Foreign Missions Board, the congregation contributed to a Chinese relief mission that ministered to 60 million homeless Chinese. A financial report for July and August 1937 indicated total gifts to missionary endeavors to be $119.92. At that time $25.00 would feed, clothe and educate a Chinese youth for one year. Later, Derry Church supported a missionary, Ashbel Green Simonton of West Hanover Township, who served in Brazil.

After eight years of serving Derry, Reverend Corbin resigned in 1940 to accept another call to First Presbyterian Church in Jeannette, near Pittsburgh.

As war clouds spread in Europe and Asia, Derry installed another young and dynamic pastor, William V. Longbrake, on April 25, 1941.

After the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Derry Township Defense Council requested to use Derry’s basement as a wartime emergency first aid station, which was never used. Reverend Longbrake’s pastorate included the turbulent World War II years when 65 Derry members (including three women) joined the armed forces. To help connect with Derry members living away from home, Reverend Longbrake wrote a monthly newsletter, “Today,” mailed to servicemen and students studying away from home. The Deacons also worked to strengthen ties to those away from home. providing a daily devotions book, “Strength for Service to God and Country” to all Derry members serving in the military. At home, a special flag, emblazoned with a star for each member enlisted in the service, was displayed in the Chapel. In November 1946, this flag was replaced with a bronze memorial plaque bearing their names.

While Derry Church had celebrated the Christmas season with a special evening service, gathering as a congregation on Christmas Eve was not introduced until 1944. That year, Christmas Eve fell on a Sunday. This tradition has continued every year since then.

Reverend Longbrake had a keen interest in the history of Derry Church. In 1949, Derry Church celebrated its 225th anniversary with a weekend-long series of events. On October 30, 1949, during a special afternoon service, he spoke about the history of Derry Church and its cemetery. The service included music provided by Hershey Industrial School (Milton Hershey School) Band. Special guests included members of the Pennsylvania Society of Sons of the American Revolution. Following the service, new grave markers were dedicated honoring Revolutionary War soldiers and patriots buried in our churchyard.

Derry Church Sunday School continued to grow during these years. Operating somewhat independently of the larger church, the Sunday School program grew from 351 to 533 members during the 1940s. Programs for teenagers and young adults grew as an important part of Derry Church’s ministry.

Derry Church membership continued to expand under Reverend Longbrake. While the John Elder Memorial Chapel had been expanded in 1935, that addition did not provide adequate space for the growing congregation. By 1950, membership had risen to 506 people and the effectiveness of church programs was limited by the crowded facilities. As Hershey returned to peacetime, Derry Church began discussing plans to expand. Before Reverend Longbrake resigned in 1950, plans to enlarge the church building had already been approved.

Throughout the Great Depression and World War II, Derry continued to serve God and the surrounding community. While people in Derry Township and beyond benefited from Derry’s time, service, and money, new church programs, staff, and expanded facilities helped the congregation to proclaim God’s word, share God’s love, and practice God’s justice.

The only prospect scarier than moving across the ocean is finding a new church to call home. Leaving our jobs, schools, and established life in England meant a lot of new opportunities for change. One of the most important considerations in our move was to find a church that would get us involved together as a family.  Luckily, Derry has so many opportunities to feel included.

The first area we became involved in was Sunday morning Bible study where a warm cup of coffee and a safe place to have deep conversations was available.  During this time, our daughter, Brooke began to make friendships and music with the kid’s ministry.  As the weeks progressed, it soon became clear that Terrific Tuesdays were an important part of church life.  Unfortunately, we had a clash on Tuesday nights with soccer practice which meant Brooke could only attend a few sessions of Tuesdays last year.  Brooke was so eager to attend Terrific Tuesdays this year that we changed her soccer team to better allow us to come along regularly!  To see Brooke confidently participating in the front of the church with handbells and singing is a testament to the inviting atmosphere Brooke has thrived within.

In addition to Tuesday nights, I have come along to many of the Sunday evening Journey in Prayer sessions where I have been made to feel so welcome.  It has been a fantastic place to get to know many of the women at church on a deeper level.  Austin has attended many of the Derry Dude’s sessions where he has been able to experience ax throwing and fellowship amongst friends and food.  We attended the Corn Roast where happy memories of fishing and mini-golf were made. Vacation Bible School was a chance to invite loved ones to experience God’s love (and act as secret agents).

Coming from Britain it has been a pleasure to see the strong links of Derry Church to Ireland and Scotland. Most recently having the pleasure of meeting David Latimer made Brooke feel at “home.” She remarked that David reminded her of her grandad back in England and was delighted to get a picture with him. This connection and link to our neighbors across the pond has further cemented the sense of community we feel at Derry Church.

It has truly been a pleasure to sense the love, community, and warm welcome that has been shared with us in the last few months. Getting involved has helped us immensely in settling in. We are so excited and grateful we have found a beautiful community to worship alongside. Thank you, Derry, for making us feel welcome!

Editor’s Note: On the first Thursday of each month, the eNews feature article highlights one of our mission partners. This month the focus is on The Joshua Group in Harrisburg.

On behalf of Joshua Group and the children we serve, we wish to express our sincere gratitude for your generous donation of $3,500, which will give deserving Harrisburg city children a chance at a quality education—and a brighter future.

We deeply appreciate your support for our students, as this donation aids in the efforts of the Joshua Group helping over 200 disadvantaged young people living on Allison Hill in Harrisburg trying to improve their lives through education.

Our summer program served 140 1st through 9th grade students in a seven-week program. They received breakfast and lunch each day along with academic and enrichment activities. Our students participated in nutrition classes, cooking classes, financial literacy classes, robotics demonstrations and educational field trips in addition to reading, writing and math focuses. Our 8th grade boys participated in a program with Recycle Bicycle where they learned how to build, repair, and maintain bicycles and learn how to safely ride. At the end, they were gifted their own bicycle to take home.

Our J-Crew After-School Program, which supports students from 1st grade to 12th grade, living in Harrisburg, gives access to the critically important educational support they need to have a successful academic career. Our after-school program gives our students a safe nurturing environment to be in after their school day. They get a hot meal, homework help, mentoring and unconditional love. We provide enrichment opportunities along the experiences and exposure in areas they might not have otherwise. Our younger students have enrichment activities such as art, cooking, crafts and reading. Our older high school students learn about vocational opportunities and internships and have opportunities to apply for summer work. Our seniors are taken on college visits as most of their families do not have the ability to provide that opportunity for them. Our dedicated staff and volunteers work tirelessly to ensure our students have all the tools to learn and be prepared for post-secondary education or a self-

sustaining career.

Last year, the students in our programs earned an average GPA of 3.03 and had an average attendance of 92% and a graduation/promotion rate of 100%. Your support will help ensure our students continue to thrive and so we can break the cycle of poverty through education.

Again, we are deeply appreciative of your support. Thank you for investing in our students and in this organization. Your donation enables us to continue to offer access to education to students who would not have a chance otherwise.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.

This year has been a whirlwind of Derry 300 events that culminated last weekend with our 300th anniversary homecoming celebration, worship, and cemetery rededication. We’ve spent the whole year remembering, reflecting, giving thanks for our heritage and the saints of Derry, and looking toward the future of Derry. We’ve traveled, we’ve sung, we’ve learned, and last weekend we gathered together. 

Much could be said about our homecoming weekend, but the word I keep coming back to is love. I felt surrounded by love in the Hershey Lodge on Saturday night amid the happy reunions, boisterous laughter, and shared memories. I could tell everyone gathered loved one another, loved Derry, and loved God. We broke bread together, we reflected on our past, and we heard an important word for the future from Rev. David Latimer, about who we are called to be for God and the world. Our call is to share the love that shapes us. Derry does that by proclaiming God’s word, sharing God’s love, and practicing God’s justice together. We are deeply rooted in love, and that’s where our growth has come from over the past 300 years.

We’ve spent the majority of this year looking back, and now it’s time to look forward to our next 300 years. Our work is not done, our story is not finished, our mission is not yet complete. Our world has not yet learned to live and love well together, so we — all of us — need a place, and we need a time that reminds us what love is and what it does and how it shapes us. We need a place to remind us that we are all defined by who and how we love.

That’s what Derry is, and has been for 300 years. I hope that’s why you come, and why you volunteer, and why you give to the work of this church. You, and all the past saints of Derry, have given of their time, talent, and treasure to make Derry a place to worship, serve and belong, as well as a place to remember the love that shapes our lives. I hope you’ve found this to be that place, that needed place, for you and the world.  

Entering our annual stewardship season, we can be inspired by our past, encouraged by our present, and hopeful about our future. In coming weeks we will be reflecting on what we can give so that Derry can continue to proclaim God’s word, we share God’s love and we practice God’s justice… or to say it another way, to share the love that shapes us. 

I’m feeling inspired and hopeful after such a memorable and special weekend. I loved the weekend, and I love Derry, and I love each of you. Derry is a special place: it is a place of love. Thank you for all you do to ensure that Derry remains a place where love is taught, given, shared, and received. 

Thanks to the generosity and faith of the Presbytery and many Presbyterians, the Derry Church Chapel was completed in 1887. At the same time, Derry’s Sunday School, an organization independent of the church, was reaching and teaching many children and adults each week. While the Sunday School was expanding, without a called pastor Church membership remained static, and Derry continued to struggle financially. 

While Derry Church did not have a called pastor, the church was fortunate to be served by stated supply pastors who offered Sunday evening services. Reverend Albert Williamson, pastor of  Paxton Presbyterian Church, offered monthly evening services from 1885-1895, and Reverend William Groff, pastor of Middletown Presbyterian Church, led monthly evening services from 1895-1905.

Milton Hershey’s decision to build a chocolate factory and model town in 1903 had a profound effect on Derry’s future. The factory, which began operations in 1905, brought new residents to the community. Derry Church slowly began to grow in membership and financial stability.

With the continued financial support of Presbytery and with Milton Hershey’s contribution of $300 (1/3 of a minister’s salary), in 1909 Derry called its first pastor since 1874. Reverend Benjamin Segelken served Derry for only a year before taking another call. During his short time at Derry, notable changes occurred. Individual communion sets with small glasses fitting into trays were purchased, allowing the sacraments to be served in the pews. A choir was organized, a pianist was hired, and a Ladies’ Guild was established with Reverend Segelken’s wife as its first president. From this point on, Derry Church was able to continue calling full-time pastors. As the town of Hershey grew, so did the congregation. 

The Ladies’ Guild played a significant role in Derry Church life. In addition to Bible studies and fellowship, fundraising played an important role in the Guild. During the Guild’s first ten years, the women raised funds to improve the Chapel building. Fundraisers were often held in downtown Hershey because there wasn’t space for such events in the Chapel. The women held Strawberry Festivals and Oyster Dinners, sold magazines such as McCall’s and Ladies’ Home Journal, sewed and sold aprons, and even offered weekly embroidery and crochet lessons to add to their treasury. With their funds, the women paid for pews in the Chapel, repaired the church walls ($150), tuned the Chapel piano, purchased a Brussels carpet ($263.75) and the church’s first electric vacuum cleaner ($20.38). In 1917, the Ladies’ Guild paid for Derry Church’s first indoor toilet.

Reverend George Snavely Rentz came to serve Derry in 1913. During Reverend Rentz’s tenure the church continued to grow in strength and numbers. The church celebrated its legacy of oak trees on November 13, 1915 by planting 50 new trees. The event was a community affair. Milton Hershey and Pennsylvania Governor Martin Brumbaugh attended and each planted an oak tree on the church grounds. The Hershey Band provided music, and Hershey Industrial School (Milton Hershey School) boys assisted with tree planting.

Reverend Rentz built relationships with other Hershey churches, holding joint worship services with the United Brethren (Hershey 1st Methodist) Church. He also reestablished summer Sunday evening lawn services.

Under his leadership, Sunday School classes continued to thrive, with the Men’s Bible class, the Christian Endeavor youth program, and women’s groups growing in numbers. Reverend Rentz left in 1916 to take a call at Market Square Presbyterian Church. When the United States entered World War I in 1917, Rentz resigned to enlist as a Navy chaplain.

Derry Church, like the rest of Hershey, sent several young men to serve in the military during World War I. And like the rest of the nation, Derry Church and the Hershey community suffered from the influenza pandemic that swept the nation as soldiers returned home. The efforts the community and Derry made to curb the spread of influenza were minimal. Once during the winter of 1919, the town shut down public schools and gatherings for two weeks. During the height of the influenza season in 1920, Derry Church suspended all gatherings besides Sunday morning worship for a couple weeks, but little else was done. 

After Reverend Rentz left, Derry Church called Reverend Robert Taylor. The church rented a home located at 20 West Chocolate Avenue to serve as the Church’s manse. In 1924, Derry built a manse for the pastor’s use on church property. It was located near the corner of East Derry Road and Mansion Road, close to today’s church office entrance.

By 1924, Derry’s 200th anniversary, church membership had grown to 148 members with an average of 150 people attending Sunday School each week. The church celebrated its anniversary with several services held over one weekend. The weekend was marked by the return of former members, descendants of former pastors, and friends of Derry.

Reverend Taylor wrote a historical sketch of Derry Church that he presented during one of the services. This sketch, which Taylor later expanded, became Derry’s first published history. 

Reverend Taylor’s interest in Derry’s history led to the preservation of the Session House through the construction of its glass enclosure. Reverend Taylor seized the opportunity when Milton Hershey was visiting the church property to check on the trees to ask for a donation towards preserving the Session House. That request led to Milton Hershey directing his architect-builder, D. Paul Witmer, designing and constructing the building’s glass structure.

While he served as Derry’s pastor, Reverend Taylor emphasized tithing in his sermons and ministry. As a result, by 1927 Derry Church became self-supporting and no longer needed the Presbytery’s financial support. 

By the mid-1920s, congregational growth led to plans to expand the Chapel. Preliminary plans showed an extension to the west of the church. However, after much discussion the final design called for the construction of an east transept to the Chapel with classrooms behind the original building and a social gathering space on the lower level. In honor of Derry’s best known former pastor, the new expanded Chapel would be christened “The John Elder Memorial Chapel.” The economic crisis resulting from the Great Depression would delay construction for several years. 

We just started our new program year, and it looks like it is going to be a great one.  Our Sunday School is back in full swing, and I have been encouraged by all the volunteers — both new and experienced — who have stepped up, willing to help. They bring with them a wide spectrum of energy and gifts to make our programs even stronger.  

The youth group (grades 6-12) just kicked the year off with “Cutout Capers.” At this event, the youth broke up into teams and headed into the Hershey community with life-size cutouts of celebrities such as Adam Levine (the lead singer for ColdPlay) and Katy Perry.  Taylor Swift was supposed to be in attendance, but her schedule didn’t cooperate (shipping was delayed). Teams had a list of places to go to take pictures with their cut-out. Much fun was had.

The Kids Fellowship (grades 3-5) will go apple picking on Sunday, along with the youth and everyone who wants to participate in this all-church activity. Later in the fall we have planned bonfires, s’mores, corn mazes, popcorn making, and service projects.

Our Sunday School is up and running with some new tweaks. Youth started “3G” during the Sunday School hour, which stands for God, Games, and Grub.  We will be playing games,  then having a faith discussion surrounding those games. Some of the games will be classics like Pictionary or charades, while others will be modern like Jack Box. After we play, we will eat and talk about things that matter.  We had a great turnout this past Sunday.    

Grades K-5 are following the SparkHouse curriculum, which includes hands-on activities, faith discussions, and multimedia resources. This past Sunday each class created a covenant to help them promise how best to treat each other.

Terrific Tuesday started this week, and we are excited about all the music, stories, fun, and puppets that will be happening. We have simplified the schedule a bit and added a recreation block so that our kids have time just to be kids and play with each other. 

Now that you know more about our programming, I would like to tell you why we offer these programs. Our primary goal is to create a safe place where all who participate will hear that they are loved by God (who is always with them) and by their church family. It has been my experience that if you are successfully able to accomplish these goals, then you can have rich discussions about faith formation, having divine worth, participating in God’s amazing work, dreaming about how the church can live its mission out, and discerning and realizing that each of us are uniquely equipped and have something to contribute to the church, community, and world.  

Something that you may not always hear a pastor say but I firmly believe is that participation in the church’s programming is not a requirement to having a faith. I believe that you should make faith a priority in your life, but our programs are just one way you can support and enrich your faith. Family time, athletics, vocations, and academics are also very important and demand your time. These things also contribute to your faith. 

I encourage you to make faith a priority in your life, and I hope that our programs will aid in your faith development. I hope and believe you find lifelong relationships in our church community. And I want you to remember that when life gets busy with other commitments, it’s completely understandable to take a break. Know that you will be missed, and we will be thrilled to see you when you return. 

Editor’s Note: On the first Thursday of each month, the eNews feature article highlights the mission focus for the month. In September we’re lifting up the Peace & Global Witness Offering, where a portion of funds received goes to our mission partner Gather the Spirit for Justice. In their own words, here is a snapshot of their operations: 

The mission of Gather the Spirit for Justice (Gather the Spirit) is to “strengthen community in Allison Hill, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.” Most of our neighborhood folks are low-income and many are homeless. For the census tract immediately surrounding the community center, census data shows an estimated 2020 median family income of only $35,306 and a minority population of 88%.  

Gather the Spirit’s Common Ground Community Center provides a safe, comfortable place for our neighbors to gather for classes, weekly community breakfasts, gardening and special events. We offer services that help them improve their opportunities for employment and personal growth (e.g., English as a Second Language classes, cooking classes) and we assist with basic personal needs (e.g., toiletries, food, cleaning supplies).

Gather the Spirit began operation at the Shared Ministry on Market Street in Harrisburg in the 1970s and later also partnered with the Unitarian Church of Harrisburg, The open door of the community center was closed during the worst part of the Covid pandemic, from March 2020 through 2022. Now Gather the Spirit is located on the bottom floor of Christ Lutheran Church in Harrisburg, and Common Ground Coffee can be found there every Saturday, 9-11 am.

Dear Derry members, The Mission & Peace Committee would love to interest you in some of Gather the Spirit for Justice’s volunteer opportunities and the committee hopes to offer some financial support after taking a hiatus during the Covid pandemic. Please consider supporting this worthwhile mission! Contact me for more information and to volunteer — Karen Leader, Mission & Peace Committee Member

A Musical Note

The Sanctuary Choir and Derry Ringers performed to over 300 people at Mount Gretna on Sunday, August 4. The concert was extremely well received, and my deepest gratitude goes to each musician who sang and rang with passion and artistry. Derry Church was well represented, and the presence of the Holy Spirit was felt in that sacred place.

Sanctuary Choir rehearsals for its fall 2024 season have begun! Save the date for the 2024 Christmas at Derry concert, set for Sunday, December 8. The concert will be at 3 pm, followed by a reception in Fellowship Hall. The youth will provide gourmet popcorn at the reception.

Derry Ringers will begin rehearsals on September 10. Claire Folts and Debbi Kees-Folts are completing a fall schedule for the children and have worked out dates for singing in worship.

A Programming Note

Our 2024 Arts Alive season is well underway, and we are also finalizing plans for the 2025 season. Here’s what you can look forward to in the months ahead:

• October 6: Pianist Thomas Pandolfi returns to play a concert on the Lee Ann Taylor Memorial Steinway 
• November 3: Silver, Wood, and Ivory
• December 8: Christmas at Derry, one concert at 3 pm in the Sanctuary

My deepest gratitude to Dick Hann and the Arts Alive committee for their tireless work in preparing for this upcoming season.

A Note on Organ Tuning

When the Aeolian-Skinner organ, Opus 1132, was installed, A-Thompson Allen included ten tunings within the removal, refurbishment, and reinstallation contract. When those tunings were completed, the subsequent tuning cost was $1,800 (which included travel and lodging). Seeing that this amount was not reasonable as there are so many qualified and skilled technicians in our area, I sought the services of a local tuner and technician. The work carried out on March 8 was unsatisfactory as the organ had temperament discrepancies throughout several divisions, and maintenance issues were not resolved as requested.

I am happy to report that on Friday, August 9, Steven Emery, a highly respected tuner, rebuilder, and technician, came to tune our organ, fixing every issue previously mentioned, and the organ is playing and sounding better than ever. The cost for Steve’s work was roughly half that of A-Thompson Allen’s, and his work is exceptional. Steve is the curator of organs at many esteemed institutions, including St. Bartholomew’s in New York City and the Wanamaker Organ in Philadelphia, and is currently working on the complete refurbishment of the National Cathedral Organ. His skill and artistry bless us at such a reasonable cost.

A Note of Thanks

Sarah and I would like to thank the members of Derry Church, the Session, and Pastor Stephen for all your love, care, and support of our recent wedding in June. We are blessed to now live in the Hershey area and be 10 minutes from Derry Church, which was made possible by the generous support of the congregation of Derry Church. Now that I am fully recovered from Covid, I look forward to an exciting season ahead.