A special program was held in front of Zion United Church of Christ, Lehighton, to bring to a close the 150th Anniversary celebrations of both Zion UCC and Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church.

The Rev. Nancy L. Moore, pastor of Trinity, led the group in an opening prayer.

Clark Ritter, the mayor of Lehighton, presented proclamations to each church on behalf of borough of Lehighton.

Following Mayor Ritter were State Rep. Doyle Heffley; Sen. David Argall; Carol Etheridge, representing the offices of Rep. Susan Wild, and Carbon County Commissioner Rocky Ahner; each offering their reflections on the importance of these two churches and presenting proclamations to each.

“I think it’s important that we’re here today to recognize 150 years, that’s a long time,” Heffley said.

“It’s amazing what good can come from 150 years. I just want to commend both congregations for what you do in the community.”

“Most organizations do not make it to 150 years,” Argall said. “You are obviously doing something very special here that works. I would just encourage you to keep doing what works for you.”

Ahner commented on the food pantries that both churches operate for the community.

“You can get up in the morning and you can have faith, and your kids can go to bed at night and they have been fed. That’s something that these two groups can be very proud of. Thank you very much for what you’re doing.”

The Rev. Dr. Dean D. Frey, Pastor at Zion UCC, offered the closing prayer.

Following the program, many of those present set out on a faith walk down the streets of Lehighton.