Information
Landmark: Union Evangelical Lutheran ChurchCity: York City
Country: USA Pennsylvania
Continent: North America
Union Evangelical Lutheran Church, York City, USA Pennsylvania, North America
Overview
Union Evangelical Lutheran Church in York, Pennsylvania is a vibrant, historic congregation tucked into downtown at 408 West Market Street, where its brick façade catches the morning sun.Founded in 1859, it’s one of York’s oldest faith communities-its fourth Lutheran church, and the first to rise on the quiet western banks of the Codorus Creek.They founded it to bring together members from several Lutheran congregations into one new neighborhood church, a place to serve the city’s growing population-families moving in, kids laughing on newly built sidewalks.The church, dedicated on September 15, 1929, was crafted by J. A. Dempwolf, a renowned York architect whose work still shapes the city’s skyline.Between 1928 and 1929, the sanctuary gained its stained-glass windows-panes of deep blues and warm golds-that still stand as one of the church’s most captivating features.Meticulously made and costly for their era, these windows spill vibrant colors across the room, carrying layers of spiritual meaning.A silver cross hangs above the altar, crafted by Gorham & Company of New York, catching the light as it stands as a symbol of Christian faith and draws every eye during worship.At Worship and Faith Life Union Lutheran, you’ll find both traditional and contemporary services, where the glow of candlelight meets an open, welcoming spirit rooted in centuries-old liturgy.Sunday worship starts at 9:30 a.m., with people gathering in the pews or tuning in online, the sound of the opening hymn carrying to both.After the service, faith formation for every age kicks off at 11:00 a.m., guiding growth from curious toddlers to seasoned adults.On the first Sunday of every month at 10:45 a.m., the church invites people to “Faith, Fellowship, and Serve,” a morning that blends a warm, light lunch with activities for all ages and hands-on ways to give back, bringing its mission of living out faith through action and connection to life.At Mission and Outreach Union Lutheran, we’re devoted to welcoming everyone and serving the community-whether that means sharing a warm meal or lending a hand where it’s needed most.The congregation warmly opens its doors to everyone-whether you’re young or old, rich or struggling, of any race, gender identity, or orientation-bringing all together in the shared hope of Jesus Christ.A standout part of its outreach is working with York CARES, a program that helps people in the community who don’t have a place to sleep.Union Lutheran hosts York CARES, offering a warm, safe place where people without homes can pick up their mail, sip hot coffee, grab a snack, and get referrals to social services and local resources.Several afternoons each week, the program runs from a bright, easily reached spot in the city, giving people the vital help they need.Beyond worship and outreach, Union Lutheran has become a lively gathering spot-neighbors drop in for coffee, conversation, and the occasional bake sale.It hosts educational workshops, fellowship circles, and social justice projects, building a welcoming space where faith meets everyday life over shared stories and coffee.The church urges people to roll up their sleeves for service projects and speak out on social issues, carrying forward its long tradition of bringing York’s community together in both faith and public life.You can visit us at 408 West Market Street, York, PA 17401, or call (717) 843-7897.The office is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Sundays from 9 a.m. to noon; we’re closed on Saturdays.Drop by for Sunday worship, or join in one of our many church programs-there’s often fresh coffee brewing in the hall.The congregation takes real pride in its warm welcome, making sure newcomers feel included and genuinely valued-often with a smile and a steaming cup of coffee.Union Evangelical Lutheran Church is both historic and alive with energy, weaving together deep-rooted tradition, rich artistic heritage, and hands-on service that reaches far beyond its red brick walls.It still shapes York’s spiritual and social life, drawing people in for worship, warm conversation over tea, and community outreach.
