Living History
Old St . Luke ’ s Church in Scott Township is still a vital part of the community after 230 years !
BY PAMELA PALONGUE
Old St . Luke ’ s is a place of living history that continues to evolve , where people of many faiths go to pray , to celebrate weddings and baptisms , and even to say goodbye to old friends . These events are all quite meaningful , but to experience them in such an historic place is a rare privilege .
It was once the site of a stockade , constructed in 1765 , after being scouted by British Captain David Steel . Major William Lea later selected the land where the stockade had been built as payment for his service in the French and Indian War . The stockade was replaced with a place of worship around 1790 , with a Norman Gothic church , built of
Interior photo courtesy of Parkway Florist , Green Tree .
vernacular stone . These were the early beginnings of St . Luke ’ s , which is the oldest Episcopal church west of the Alleghenies .
The church continued , although not easily , until 1930 when it finally closed and fell into decline . Despite not having a dedicated congregation , volunteers stepped in and decided to restore the church with great care , making sure to retain all the historic detail .
Today , the church still has no congregation , but is recognized for its spiritual and historic significance , including a place on the National Historic Register . It remains open through fundraising efforts , loyal supporters and the renting of the site for weddings , baptisms , funerals and special events throughout the year such as music concerts , Christmas worship services and Easter .
On Sunday , April 17 , at 6:30 a . m ., the Annual Easter Sunrise Service will be held . Despite being an 18th century church , the acoustics are wonderful , and the church has a 21st century sound system . The stone interior , stained glass windows and ceiling with heavy cross timbers make it easy to slip back in time . The celebrants are dressed in period attire , and with the early hour , you ’ ll be treated to a beautiful sunrise . To view a video from the 2021 service , visit facebook . com / oldstlukes1765 .
As we approach the wedding season , the beautiful , historic church will play host to many couples tying the knot this summer and autumn , and they too will become a part of its history .
For more information about Old St . Luke ’ s in Scott Township , or to volunteer or contribute , visit the website at oldsaintlukes . org . n
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