Church History
The Foundation of Friedens
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
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
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
What does the German word, friedens, mean?
Peace
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?
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?
The Revs. John Guildin and Charles (Carl) Herman used both German and English.
History of Ministers at Friedens
Rev. Carl G. Herman
Rev. Augustus Herman
Rev. Issac Miese
Rev. N.S. Straussberger, D.D.
Rev. Issac Miese
Rev. P.P.A. Hoffman
Rev. Daniel E. Schoedler, D.D.
Rev. Issac S. Stahr
Rev. Earl G. Wolford
Rev. Norman W. Shollenberger
Rev. Carl P. Mitchel Jr.
Rev. Stephen Carnahan
Rev. G. Richard Ott
Rev. James L. Dunn
Rev. Philip K. Nace
Rev. David C. Newhart
Rev. Dr. Jon A. Fogle
Rev. Dr. Gary A. Halstead
Rev. Elizabeth Byerly-Garrigan
Rev. David C. Newhart
Rev. Anne Hoffmann
Rev. Thomas Adil
Rev. Dr. Tyson L. Frey
Rev. Corrine Dautrich
1831 to 1839
1839 to 1840
1840 to 1848
1848 to 1861
1861 to 1862
1862 to 1879
1879 to 1884
1884 to 1928
1928 to 1968
1968 to 1979 (Pastor Emeritus)
1980 to 1983
1984 to 1991
1991 to 1993 (Interim)
1993 to 2003
March 2003 to December 2003 (Interim)
January 2004 to October 2004 (Interim)
2004 to December 2009
2010 to October 2011 (Interim)
October 2011 to May 2014
May 2014 to June 2015 (Interim)
June 2015 to December 2015 (Interim)
March 2016 to August 2016 (Interim)
August 2016 to June 2022
July 2022 to Present
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.pptx