“New beginnings are often disguised as painful endings” — Lao Tzu

In November 2024, St. John’s United Church of Christ, Mickleys, 2918 MacArthur Road, Whitehall, celebrated its 175th anniversary.

On June 21, the church held its final service.

The occasion was bittersweet, as congregants knew the historic church faced closure because of an aging and shrinking congregation of about 35 to 40 members. Generations of families had worshiped there and created deep emotional ties, but maintaining the large building had become increasingly difficult. Ultimately, the congregation voted to sell it.

The church’s final service offered both a remembrance and celebration of its history, honoring the joys and sorrows shared over the years. It also reflected on the present, including the challenges of COVID-19, changing religious expectations and the ongoing need for community service.

Looking ahead, the church’s future has been entrusted to Xariz, meaning “grace,” a nondenominational Christian family worship group. The final service was attended by St. John’s and Xariz congregants.

Xariz Family Worship Center, founded in 2013, previously worshiped at 541 Genesee St., Allentown. As its congregation grew, the Whitehall church proved to be an ideal fit, a view shared by members of St. John’s.

Concerned that the building might become office space, St. John’s congregants were pleased to see it remain a house of worship. Xariz was equally eager to make the move. Preserving a fellowship with strong community ties was important to both groups, and Xariz Pastor Ruben Felix expressed respect for the traditions established there.

“The bells ringing at noon, honoring Mickley, a church founder, will continue,” Felix said.

He and his wife, Wanda, look forward to bringing Xariz Family Worship Center to Whitehall. The church’s children, youth, family and adult programs have been successful in Allentown.

The church has been conducting services and will have its inaugural weekend July 31-Aug 2. All are welcome.