On Sunday, September 13, 2026, at 3:00 p.m., Old Zion German Reformed Church, Brickerville, will host its 82nd Annual Anniversary service and Grave Marking of Revolutionary War Patriots. The service provides an opportunity to reflect on Old Zion’s rich history and faith traditions. This year’s theme will be “Brickerville 1776,” as our Nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the founding of our Nation.
Rev. William LaSalle will portray the Rev. John Christopher Gobrecht, who served as the minister at Old Zion during the war years, from 1770 to 1779, and at other local churches. The worship service will include music and hymns from the period. Mrs. Peggy Grabowski will play the historical pump organ at Old Zion as part of the service. A free-will offering will be collected during the service.
Immediately after the worship service, Old Zion Church, the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, the Pennsylvania Society Sons of the Revolution, and the Reverand Cannon Mark Scheneman, Priest-in-Charge of Bangor Episcopal Church in Narvon and bagpiper will recognize two Revolutionary War soldiers, who attended Old Zion and are buried in the cemetery next to the church: Private Philip Schlabach and Private George Hollinger. The graveside recognition ceremony will feature the unveiling of markers and placement of American flags by descendants of the soldiers. The service and recognition ceremony provide fitting tributes to two local men, who help to defend our country and secure our independence.
Please join us for an afternoon of faith, music, history, and fellowship. Refreshments will be served outdoors after the service and ceremony. Old Zion Church is located near Brickerville at 187 Reifsnyder Rd.
Please visit our website www.oldzionchurch.org for more information.
Directions
From Lititz – take Route 501 North of Lititz, turn right at the light at Brubaker Valley Road, and turn left on Reifsnyder Road
From Ephrata – take Route 322 west of Ephrata, turn left on Reifsnyder Road as you enter Brickerville
