St. John’s United Church of Christ, 223 W. College Ave., Bluffton, will celebrate its 145th anniversary on Sunday, Sept. 16, according to Rev. Carol Clements, pastor.

The celebration begins with a 10:30 a.m. worship service. The Northwest Ohio Association Minister, Rev. Dan Busch, will be the speaker.  Special musical selections provided by the choir and instrumentalists will enhance the celebration.

Following the worship service participants will enjoy a time of fellowship during a catered meal which takes place in Oppermann Hall.  Former pastors and church members, as well as friends of the congregation, are invited to join in the festivities. 

Reservations for the meal are required and may be made by contacting the church office at 419-358-5641, or by email: [email protected].

Formerly known as St. John’s Evangelical and Reformed Church, the name was changed to St. John’s United Church of Christ in 1957 due to a merger of churches within the national association known as the United Church of Christ. 

The early church was a part of Emmanuel’s Church near Bluffton. In 1873, 40 members of Emmanuel’s Church were dismissed to become charter members of St. John’s, at which time a constitution was adopted and a lot was purchased for the building. 

The original church building was constructed in 1879, with the addition of an arch and chancel area added in 1895.

In 1957, the educational wing named Oppermann Hall, was completed. Since the inception of St. John’s, there have been 22 pastors who have served the congregation.