Central Moravian Church in Bethlehem invites Valley residents to join in celebrating the 275th anniversary of the Old Chapel through a series of engaging mid-week Lenten dinners and programs beginning Feb. 18.

Built in 1751, the Old Chapel, one of nine locations forming the Moravian Church Settlements – Bethlehem UNESCO World Heritage Site, holds a special place in American history and continues to serve as a vibrant center of worship and community gathering.

“For 275 years, the Old Chapel has been a sacred space where generations have gathered to worship, reflect, and build community,” says Rev. Janel Rice, senior pastor at Central Moravian Church. “We warmly invite our neighbors and the wider faith community to join us this Lenten season as we honor this remarkable heritage and discover together how these historic walls continue to inspire meaningful connection and spiritual growth today.”

Throughout this commemorative Lenten season, Central Moravian Church will host weekly Wednesday evening programs exploring the rich history, famous visitors and cultural significance of this remarkable landmark.

Each evening begins with dinner at 6 p.m. in the Christian Education building (40 W. Church St., lower level), followed by programs at 7 p.m. in the Old Chapel.

For those unable to attend in person, programs will be livestreamed on Zoom (us06web.zoom.us/j/84564287979) and on Central’s YouTube channel.

Program schedule

• Feb. 18: Ash Wednesday Worship Service

• Feb. 25: “Construction and Evolution of the Old Chapel” led by Tom Tenges

• March 4: Famous Visitors in the Old Chapel, featuring Central’s young people sharing stories of Martha Washington, Ben Franklin, Marquis de Lafayette and more.

• March 11: “Indigenous Peoples in the Old Chapel,” exploring the 1792 visit by chiefs and warriors of the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) Confederacy

• March 18: “Moravian Academy Then and Now” with Abby Mahone, director of Moravian Academy’s Downtown Campus, and Charlene Donchez Mowers, senior adviser and historian, Bethlehem World Heritage Commission

• March 25: “Music in the Chapel & a Singstunde,” concluding with a traditional Moravian hymn sing led by Becky Lepore, minister of music, Central Moravian Church

All events are free and open to the public.

The series offers a unique opportunity to explore the fascinating history of this UNESCO World Heritage site while building community through shared meals and meaningful conversation.

For more information, contact the Central Moravian Church Office at office@centralmoravianchurch.org or 610-866-5661.

Contributed article