We are a faithful Christian community of members and friends who seek to know God better, love God more, and serve God in our daily living. We are unique community that varies greatly in age, income, and ethnic backgrounds. We take pride in our diversity and continue to be open to everyone seeking to learn more about God and how faith can change lives. Nestled on a small hill off of Ridge Avenue, just west of Philadelphia in Lafayette Hill, PA, Messiah, we occupy a building built by the founding members over 60 years ago. Come learn more about us! We are looking forward to meeting you! The music ministry of Messiah United Methodist Church is diverse in many ways. Our blended/traditional style focuses on Christ-centered music, fellowship, friendship, and most importantly, the sharing of the gospel of Christ through music in worship and special musical events. It is our hope that everyone who participates in the music ministries program is challenged to grow in Christ and to experience Gods unconditional love through the love of music that we all share. The choir provides anthems and special music, as well as leads the congregation in the singing of hymns. At Messiah, we sing both the traditional hymns of the church and newer contemporary songs accompanied by piano or organ. The Chancel Choir is open to anyone - regardless of skill or music reading ability - who would like to express their love for God and Jesus Christ through song. The Childrens Choir practices every Sunday directly after Sunday School and sings in church on the 5th Sunday of the month. The choir members range in age from 5 through 14. The Childrens Choir sings age appropriate selections and brings youthful enlightenment to the service. In March of 1952, the present 4 ? acre location at 527 Ridge Pike was purchased for the local VFW. A mid-19th Century Victorian mansion stood at the peak of the hill and this became the original worship site of the "Methodist Church of Whitemarsh Township". Rev. Thomas G. Hoffman served as the first pastor in May of 1952. We recognize December 7, 1952 as the birthday of our church - when the 33 charter members began plans for the building of an adequate church building. Groundbreaking for Wesley Hall (the present sanctuary) began November 14, 1954 and the hall was completed on June 26, 1955. The name of the church was then changed to "Messiah Methodist Church" in 1957. Under the direction of the Rev. William Wassel, who arrived in 1959, the education wing was built. Throughout the next decade, under the leadership of the Rev. J. Dennis Williams, the church grew with 239 members! During the term of the Rev. Kenneth Kolva (1968-1976), major renovations were made to Wesley Hall, and ground was broken for a new social hall. During the service of the Rev. Andrew Simonson (1976-1982), the fellowship hall was constructed. This addition was named Kolva Hall in memory Kenneth Kolva. In July of 1992, the Rev. Jim Todd began the longest term of any pastor here at Messiah-11 years. Many major renovations and improvements were completed over that time - a new sign was installed, and a new organ was dedicated. Our first female pastor, the Rev. Nancy Miller, came in 2003 and was followed by the Rev. Tom Ebersole in 2008. Shortly after Pastor Toms arrival, we dedicated a new picnic pavilion for fellowship and outdoor worship. Pastor Tom has created many opportunities for growth, change, and renewal of our community. Our primary intention is to consistently do Gods will in our everyday lives. This means contributing our donations to many community outreach programs and impoverished areas, as well as adventuring on many mission trips to help those in need.