A historic church in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, with roots dating back to the 19th century, is concluding its legacy by closing its doors and making a significant charitable donation. The Trinity United Church of Christ will host its final service this Sunday, marking the end of an era for the congregation while leaving behind a lasting impact on the community through nearly $400,000 in donations.

Generous Departure: A Church's Final Gift to Its Community

The Historical Significance of Trinity United Church of Christ

The story of Trinity United Church of Christ is deeply intertwined with the history of Bethlehem. Established in 1972 through the merger of three congregations—Zion, Calvary, and St. Paul’s Reformed Church—the church has been a cornerstone of the community for decades. St. Paul’s Reformed Church, which began in 1888, purchased the current Gothic Revival-style building in 1957. This structure, built in 1913, boasts large stained-glass windows that have witnessed countless services and celebrations over the years.As the congregation faced declining membership, similar to many other houses of worship across the country, the decision was made to sell the historic building. However, the church leaders were determined to ensure that their departure would not be marked by loss but by generosity. The sale proceeds will be donated to various charitable organizations, ensuring that the church’s commitment to the community remains strong even after its doors close.

A Century of Service and Support

For over a century, Trinity United Church of Christ has played a vital role in the lives of its members and the broader community. The church has been at the forefront of numerous initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents. One of the most notable contributions has been the church’s food pantry, which has provided essential resources to countless families in need. Volunteers from the congregation have dedicated their time and energy to ensuring that no one goes hungry.Beyond the food pantry, Trinity has also been involved in supporting local schools, particularly Jefferson Elementary. Through partnerships with the school, the church has provided educational materials, mentorship programs, and financial assistance to students and teachers alike. The church’s involvement in these efforts has left an indelible mark on the education system in Bethlehem.

Charitable Donations Leave a Lasting Legacy

In its final act, Trinity United Church of Christ is ensuring that its legacy continues through substantial donations to a variety of organizations. Recipients include homeless shelters, food pantries, church ministries, the Moravian University music program, and the local Boy Scouts of America council. These donations are not just financial contributions; they represent the culmination of decades of dedication and service by the church’s members.Rev. Den Schappell, the pastor of Trinity, expressed pride in the congregation’s commitment to the community. “We have always believed in giving back, and we wanted our final act to reflect that spirit,” he said. The church’s leadership carefully selected the recipients based on the congregation’s long-standing relationships with these organizations. By choosing entities that align with the church’s values, Trinity is ensuring that its legacy of generosity will endure long after the final service.

A Final Liturgical Service Marks the End of an Era

This Sunday, Trinity United Church of Christ will hold its final liturgical service, bringing to a close a chapter that has spanned generations. For many members, this moment will be bittersweet—a recognition of the changing times and the challenges faced by traditional institutions. Yet, it is also an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and the impact the church has had on the community.The service will serve as both a farewell and a celebration of the church’s rich history. It will honor the memories of those who have worshipped within its walls and the countless acts of kindness that have defined the congregation. As the final hymns are sung and the last prayers are offered, the community will come together to bid farewell to a beloved institution while looking forward to the future it has helped shape.