Church in Abbottstown

Welcome to our church!

"For as in one body we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ.” Romans 12:4-5

We are so very glad that you have found St. John’s. Before you join the congregation and become a member, we encourage you to worship with us and participate in the life of the congregation. If you have children and are interested in our Sunday School program, you don’t need to become a member in order to participate. You have a place here at St. John’s and we do our very best to include you into the body of Christ we share. Join us for worship and feel free to reach out to the pastor.

Who is our pastor?

Pastor Shawn Berkebile has served the congregation of St. John's for the past 14 years. Click here to get to know a bit about him!

How is St. Johns different from other churches?

"St. John's is a growing and evolving congregation. As a life long member I see new and exciting programs coming to life every year. We no longer think only of ourselves, but continually reach out to others in need. We have implemented and support many new programs that help others. Many of these programs help feed those in need of food in our own and other local communities. We also have committed our resources to help with world hunger through special donation drives, and now have made a commitment to see that our benevolence giving to synod is a priority."

~Robert Meckley

What can I expect on Sunday morning?

Each Sunday we gather for worship, learning, and experiencing the love of God together in Jesus’ name. Our Sunday school (8:45am) program offers a wide variety of opportunities to learn and engage with others. Our traditional worship service (10:00am) offers a wonderful opportunity to experience God through Word and Sacrament. Our pastor offers creative preaching connected to a modern context and even though we are deeply rooted in our liturgy, one will often have the opportunity to hear and experience a variety of music.

Word and Sacrament
St. John’s worship is rooted in the Word of God. Our liturgy, prayers and music find inspiration from the Word of God. Our worship is given life through God’s sacraments. We are given our identity as God’s children through the sacrament of baptism and receive the assurance of grace through the sacrament of communion.

Martin Luther liked to say that in preaching, the Word of God is “poured into our ears.” Each week Pastor Shawn prepares a message that connects the Biblical themes of the day with our lives, the world in which we live, and our relationship with our Almighty God. We hope that you too may feel the Word of God pouring into your heart, mind and soul.

Sunday School: 8:45 AM
Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM

What do you have for my children?

We love to have your child with us for worship and hope that each time they are here they experience God’s love and presence in their lives.

Your child is precious in God’s eyes and treasured in our worship space. St. John’s strives to involve children in all parts of the service, from singing and reading to receiving communion. We want your child to hear the great story of God’s love.

Worship Bags (Busy Bags)
Worship bags and children's bulletins are available and designed to engage 2 year olds through fourth graders during the service through activities, art supplies, and a Children’s Story Bible. Look for the “BUSY BAG Bookshelf” in the elevator hallway upstairs in the sanctuary.

Church Nursery
We cherish you and your child in worship, but we also offer a nursery for children who still haven’t started grade school. ties. Our nursery is staffed by certified volunteers and provides a safe and interactive environment for children.

Click here for more information about our Sunday School program.

Does St. Johns offer any adult education?