St. John’s was founded in 1853 at its present location on Chestnut and Mulberry Streets. It was the first Episcopal congregation in Pennsylvania to be established without a pew rental system, and so was called St. John’s Free Church. Wealthy and poor parishioners were able to come together as equals in their worship of God, an unusual practice at that time for Episcopal congregations. The original church structure did not include the parish hall, the education wing, or the former rectory that you see today. These were added over the years as our church family grew and ministries and outreach increased. A fire in 1938 necessitated major renovation to the original structure. Today St. John’s, part of the Diocese of Central Pennsylvania, is a warm and vibrant urban church that retains many of the ceremonies and customs of its Anglo-catholic heritage, yet continues to welcome everyone as equals to God’s table.

OUR MUSIC MINISTRY

Chancel Choir
This group serves as the primary musical leadership at the 10:15 service as well as singing for extra services such as our Christmas Eve Prelude of Carols and Holy Week musical offerings. Our choir year begins in September and continues through Pentecost Sunday.

Children’s Choir
Children ages 6-12 that sing periodically in our services.

Cherub Choir
Our youngest musicians at St. John’s (ages 3-5) that sing periodically in our services.

Handbell Choir
This group assists in worship in the ringing/singing of hymns and playing of anthems each month.

Music at 8:00 a.m. Service
Organ music has now become a regular part of the worship for our early service.

Visit our web site for current information on our services and upcoming musical events.