A Return to


Our Roots Art museum fellowship event sponsored by FPCA’s Barker


Society BY JOHN ROWLEY


Church members crowded the Allentown Art Museum on April 11 for a visit to our former sanctuary. Te program was sponsored by First Presbyterian’s Barker Society, which provided refreshments and arranged the program.


All FPCA members were invited. Tose who attended had an opportunity to mix and mingle in this special setting and look at a treasure trove of memorabilia on display. Associate pastor Stephen Emick served as master of ceremonies.


Te highlight was a presentation by local historian Robert Bungerz, who projected historic photographs on a screen. Attendees enjoyed seeing a photo of our congregation’s early church back in the mid-1800s and our former church, now the Allentown Art Museum, in 1902. Robert showed views of the beautiful exterior and interior, including photos of the congregation worshipping during a service.


Another picture showed what was to become a major problem: automobile traffic and the lack of parking downtown. Tis, Robert explained, led us to look for property in the then-rural area west of center city and eventually settle on our current location. He talked of the leadership, excitement, and work that went into making this a successful transition. A photo at the groundbreaking followed by a picture inside our new


church concluded his presentation. Robert answered questions afterward at a table that displayed his memorabilia.


Other speakers included Janet Ney, who offered fond memories of First Presbyterian in its days at the Fifth Street location; Dave and Pat Hoffman, who reflected on the congregation’s welcoming spirit; Alan Jennings, who discussed FPCA’s history of engagement with the local community; and pastor Jack Haberer, who encouraged attendees to continue building on the legacy of the faithful who once trod the very space in which the event took place.


ABOUT THE BARKER SOCIETY


The First Presbyterian Church of Allentown Endowment Fund was established through the generosity of Rev. William and Jean Barker to sustain an enduring vision of mission and ministry. To honor them, FPCA created the Barker Society. Any donor directing a current or planned gift to the endowment helps the fund continue to support the mission of our church in perpetuity. Supporters become welcomed Barker Society members.


From left: Robert Bungerz explains FPCA history; examining memorabilia; standing-room-only crowd; Jack Haberer speaks. 5


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