Embedded Files
Our Annual Church Bazaar is coming up soon on November 21st
The Foundation of Friedens
The Foundation of Friedens
Our Founding
Our Founding
Our church was founded in 1830 as Friedens Union Church. The first Reformed Communion that is recorded was celebrated on March 17th, 1831.
For approximately 200 years, congregations have worshiped in the current church building and we are proud to continue on that legacy. now and for many more years into the future.
Becoming a UCC Congregation
Becoming a UCC Congregation
At one point in our history, the congregation at Friedens church was a united group of Lutheran and Reformed worshipers, which was known as a "Union Church". The denominations alternated Sundays, until the decision was made to split the congregations as two independent churches. The Reformed congregation later transitioned to become our current UCC congregation. Friedens Lutheran is still worshiping today, just down the road on Rt. 73 in Oley.
Visits & Tours
Visits & Tours
If you are interested in learning more, visiting our church building, or scheduling a more formal tour, please contact the church office. Availability for guided history tours is dependent on our volunteer historians. Visits to see the facility can typically be arranged during normal office hours.
Friedens Fun Facts
Friedens Fun Facts
What does the German word, friedens, mean?
What does the German word, friedens, mean?
Peace
What is the former name of the village of Oley?
What is the former name of the village of Oley?
Friedensburg meaning "a bulwark or fortress of peace".
When was the church (and schoolhouse) built?
When was the church (and schoolhouse) built?
The cornerstone was laid on May 23, 1830. The original building was 35 feet wide and 45 feet long.
What language did the preachers use for sermons?
What language did the preachers use for sermons?
The Revs. John Guildin and Charles (Carl) Herman used both German and English.
History of Ministers at Friedens
History of Ministers at Friedens
Rev. Carl G. Herman
1831 to 1839
Rev. Augustus Herman
1839 to 1840
Rev. Issac Miese
1840 to 1848
Rev. N.S. Straussberger, D.D.
1848 to 1861
Rev. Issac Miese
1861 to 1862
Rev. P.P.A. Hoffman
1862 to 1879
Rev. Daniel E. Schoedler, D.D.
1879 to 1884
Rev. Issac S. Stahr
1884 to 1928
Rev. Earl G. Wolford
1928 to 1968
Rev. Norman W. Shollenberger
1968 to 1979 (Pastor Emeritus)
Rev. Carl P. Mitchel Jr.
1980 to 1983
Rev. Stephen Carnahan
1984 to 1991
Rev. G. Richard Ott
1991 to 1993 (Interim)
Rev. James L. Dunn
1993 to 2003
Rev. Philip K. Nace
March 2003 to December 2003 (Interim)
Rev. David C. Newhart
January 2004 to October 2004 (Interim)
Rev. Dr. Jon A. Fogle
October 2004 to December 2009
Rev. Dr. Gary A. Halstead
January 2010 to October 2011 (Interim)
Rev. Elizabeth Byerly-Garrigan
October 2011 to May 2014
Rev. David C. Newhart
May 2014 to June 2015 (Interim)
Rev. Anne Hoffmann
June 2015 to December 2015 (Interim)
Rev. Thomas Adil
March 2016 to August 2016 (Interim)
Rev. Dr. Tyson L. Frey
August 2016 to June 2022
Rev. Corrine R. Dautrich
July 2022 to January 2025 (Designated)
(cont.)
January 2025 to October 2026
Slideshow & Pictures
Slideshow & Pictures
Everything and more for the nearly 200 year history of Friedens UCC and the even longer history of religion in the Oley Valley has been captured in the slideshow below. The information was collected and compiled by Jeff Shearer for use on various occasions and for tours.
Full History.pptxHistory slideshow prepared by Jeff Shearer. Last updated in 2025.
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