The Emmanuel UCC Church in Bowmanstown has closed and its iconic bell was moved to a new location on Tuesday.

Presented to the then Immanuel Reform Church on Christmas Day in 1908 by the Sunday School and the Ladies’ Aid, the bell stood as a symbol of fellowship and worship for nearly 117 years.

Church members are sad to witness its closing

“The closing process has been difficult and emotional,” said consistory president Judy Hoffman. “Now is the time for our members to visit other churches and hopefully find new places to worship. It’s our own choice,” Hoffman said.

The Rev. Dean Frey is optimistic that members of the Emmanuel UCC Church will pass the church’s culture on to future generations.

“We carry the sound of this bell with us in our hearts. And we will always remember the church as a home and a place of worship,” Frey said.

Weighing approximately 800 pounds, the removal of the bell was a tricky process, but it went smoothly. One member of the crew tasked with removing the bell was Joshua Hineline, a local contractor.

“The bell seems like it will be preserved in a good place by good people. We’re happy to contribute part of our day,” Hineline said.

The bell found its temporary home in the Bowmanstown Borough garage.

Church members hope that the Bowmanstown Borough can preserve the bell with the help of local historical societies. Bowmanstown Borough must approve further restoration of the bell.

The auction of the church’s remaining items is scheduled for 9 a.m. on Thursday.