Historical Information
HISTORICAL INFORMATION
The Rev. Christopher Grosh Farm Home
On May 20, 1802, the Rev. Christian Newcomer preached the first sermon to a group of residents who later became the first United Brethren congregation. The old farm house, still in good condition despite its great age, is located midway between Blue Ball and the present church in East Earl Township.
Ranck’s Church, 1872
The church was remodeled in 1872 by the placement of the doors from the south end of the building to the north end and the steeple with bell were added.
Ranck’s Church, 1922
The only addition to the church, when it was remodeled in 1922, was the addition of a new tower, and the two old doors were closed and replaced with a center door and isle. New pews and stained glass windows were installed at that time, also.
Groundbreaking for the 1949-50 Remodel and Expansion
The groundbreaking was held on Sunday, October 9, 1949 for the lengthening of the pulpit end by eleven feet and nine feet at the tower end. The sanctuary would be remodeled with an arched ceiling and indirect lighting, and a new educational unit would be constructed.
Ranck’s Church & Sanctuary, 1950
The building program included the lengthening of the pulpit end by eleven feet with a pastor's study in the basement, and nine feet at the tower end with a nursery on one side and a corridor and clothes rack on the other side. A new spire with a cross was erected along with a slate roof and brick veneering to match the new addition. The educational unit contained a basement with a social room, kitchen, and restroom. The first floor contained two classrooms and a chapel. The second floor contained an assembly room, four classrooms, restroom, and closets.The remodeling of the sanctuary contained an arched ceiling with accoustical tile, illuminated with indirect lighting. A memorial stained glass window was placed above the pulpit.Homepage
Ranck’s New Sanctuary - 1985
A completely new Sanctuary and downstairs classrooms were constructed and connected to the original building with an enclosed ramp. The new Sanctuary and balcony provides seating for over 275 worshippers.
