Welcome to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, the oldest church in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Although the congregation started in 1730, this brick structure was built in 1761. Outside, the yard and gardens are enclosed with a wrought-iron fence and 30 stone tablets preserved from a cemetery once located on the grounds are mounted on the back wall. Her skyscraping white steeple can be seen from around the city.
Enter the church through the double white doors off the alley, under the bell tower. The sanctuary resembles a small cathedral. The atmosphere is dark and quiet. Walk down the long aisles and notice the little doors on every pew, referred to as "box pews." The pew backs are stuffed
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Welcome to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, the oldest church in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Although the congregation started in 1730, this brick structure was built in 1761. Outside, the yard and gardens are enclosed with a wrought-iron fence and 30 stone tablets preserved from a cemetery once located on the grounds are mounted on the back wall. Her skyscraping white steeple can be seen from around the city.
Enter the church through the double white doors off the alley, under the bell tower. The sanctuary resembles a small cathedral. The atmosphere is dark and quiet. Walk down the long aisles and notice the little doors on every pew, referred to as "box pews." The pew backs are stuffed with "fresh meadow hay" from years ago. Observe the grand stained-glass windows along the outer walls. As you near the raised pulpit, turn around and look up. Here you will see magnificent golden pipes stemming from the Tannenburg Organ that plays heavenly notes. Under the pulpit are tiny doors that open to offices. If the door is open, take a quick peek.
In the vestibule, staircases on both sides spiral to the second floor balconies and organ. At the top of the stairs (on the east side of the second floor), a little door opens to stairs leading to the bell tower (you can’t climb the tower).
If you get the chance, attend a church service, as visitors are always welcome. The sweet sounds of singing accompanied by the beautiful organ can be heard around the block.
Across the alley is the Parish House, with offices and a quaint chapel used for small weddings and baptisms.
Tours are given on Sundays at 9:45am and noon or Saturdays in the summer from 10am to 12pm. You can visit and tour the church and parish on your own any day of the week. Be sure to sign the guest book that holds names from all around the world.
Trinity holds a special place in my heart—my husband, Thorpe, and I were married here over 23 years ago. It is a great church to get married in, with plenty of room and a long aisle. No open flame is permitted due the historic significance of the church.
Located a block and a half from Penn’s Square, the center of town, head east on King Street. At Duke Street, cross the street and turn right. Follow the brick sidewalk; the church is in the middle of the block.
And, don’t forget, listen for the church bells while you’re looking about. For more information, check Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.
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