Our Story
Muddy Creek is a congregation that values its rich history while looking forward to a dynamic future.
The name "Muddy Creek" was derived from a nearby stream whose riled waters prompted the name of the creek and church. The church was founded in 1732 as a "union church" where both Lutheran and Reformed congregations worshiped and shared one building. William Penn's sons, Thomas and Richard, sold the nine and a half acres of land to the congregations for 1 pound, 8 shillings and 11 pence. The original church building was a log cabin with a dirt floor and a center fire pit to keep worshipers warm during the cold winters while the early pioneer pastors preached. The Muddy Creek Church cemetery contains old tombstones that go back to those founding days.
|
|
The current church has beautiful windows of antique cathedral glass. Scenes from the life of Christ are depicted in the windows in the nave, while the windows in the annex portray the parables. The current pipe organ was completely renovated and modernized recently (updating our historic Gottfried pipe organ), and has a beautiful sound!
For over 290 years, Muddy Creek Evangelical Lutheran Church has made a vital contribution to the community. It is a historical landmark and an integral part of the Pennsylvania Dutch culture and character. Its conspicuous location, along the road from Lancaster to Reading, is a living emblem of its spiritual and cultural influence on our community. Current Muddy Creek Cemetery listings and history information is now stored at Lancaster County Historical Society (Lancaster History), the Historical Society of the Cocalico Valley, and the Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society. |
Looking to the future, Muddy Creek is committed to being a place of grace for all people. We strive to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit in being a vibrant community of faith that can be a place which supports people in their unique journey of faith, discipleship, and service. |
Vibrant community of faith |