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The first service held at Mellingers was in December of 1861. The first Holy Communion was celebrated in June of 1862.
DECEMBER: On December 24th, 2011, a service was held during which, in addition to the candlelight Holy Communion, the sermon was given by the new pastor at the new Mellingers congregation of 1861 !People dressed in clothing of the 19th century, including a Civil War soldier told the story and kicked off our celebration. Thanks to Gail Harker for the clothes and Nancy Eberly for the script. Jessica Harting's booklets about the events and our history were handed out to the congregation.
JANUARY: A service with some German/Pennsylvania Dutch will be conducted. A special effort will be made to transport some of the older members so they can attend. Dorothy Hutchinson and Linda Netzley will sing "What A Friend We Have in Jesus" in Pennsylvania Dutch.
FEBRUARY: The Youth will lead worship and incorporate the history of Mellingers Youth Groups, including Luther League into the presentation. Paul Showalter will preach on February 26th.
MARCH: The Sunday School will be the focus. Mellingers Sunday School began in 1938. In addition to highlighting the story of Sunday School, the Sunday School Picnic and its rich history as a part of the many wonderful picnics will be included.
APRIL: The Music Program will be featured and the choir will have a special presentation.
MAY: In May and June, previous pastors, vicars and deaconess will preach with Bishop Hoover coming on June 10th.
May 6: Tina Toburen May 13: Sister Phyllis Enck (tentative) May 20: Rev. Traci Glover May 27: Rev. Robert Kurz June 3: Rev. John Minnich June 10: Rev. Bishop Penrose Hoover
JUNE: The events will lead up to the June 3rd, 2012, Holy Trinity Sunday service of Holy Communion at 9:00 am and a and a hymn sing later in the day at Homecoming. Pastor John Minnich, son of long time and beloved Mellingers pastor, Rev. Harold Minnich, will preach at the morning service. Linda Weaver brought up the concept of Homecoming, which was an event that occurred once each year uniting the congregations of Mellingers, Swamp, Reinholds and Salem Lincoln. The members of the congregations would gather for a meal and a worship service.
On June 10th, Bishop Hoover will be invited to preach and preside. Special musicians will be sought. There will be a meal following the service. | 
