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FMC Marks 275th Anniversary
During
2004 the Franconia Mennonite congregation celebrated its 275th
anniversary. The first Mennonite immigrants came to
Germantown,
PA in 1683. They
were followed by many who came from Switzerland and
Germany to flee
persecution because of their faith. These German-speaking
Christians moved to Skippack in 1702, then to Salford in
1728, and on to “Indianfield” which became Franconia
Township
in 1731.
For
nearly three centuries the Franconia congregation has been
committed to the scriptures and to a way of life often called
“discipleship.” That is, a way of life in which persons
individually and corporately follow the teaching of Jesus and
his example in love, service, and peace. By the grace of God we
seek to live and proclaim the good news of reconciliation in
Jesus Christ.
In
the last fifteen years, Franconia congregation has become more
vigorous in witness – to the local community, to places of
need in more distant urban and rural areas, and to other
countries. Today, members serve as missionaries, voluntary
service workers, and as needed in disaster
relief.
By Paul M. Lederach
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