[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 169 (Tuesday, October 14, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E957]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





    CELEBRATING THE 300TH ANNIVERSARY OF SALEM HELLER'S EVANGELICAL 
                            REFORMED CHURCH

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. LLOYD SMUCKER

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 14, 2025

  Mr. SMUCKER. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize the congregation 
of Salem Heller's Evangelical Reformed Church for their 300th 
anniversary.
  Over the past year, the congregation of Salem Heller's Evangelical 
Reformed Church has commemorated three centuries of faith and service. 
The church's humble beginnings date back to a time before the founding 
of both Lancaster County and the United States. Today, Salem Heller's 
stands as a testament to the strength and perseverance of a faith-based 
community that has flourished for generations.
  Salem Hellers was founded in 1725 by Palatine German immigrants to 
the Conestoga Valley and claims to be one of the oldest Reformed 
congregations in Lancaster County. Initially, parishioners gathered for 
worship in homes and barns before constructing a log cabin that served 
as their first permanent site of worship, a structure that stood until 
1860.
  Throughout its history, the congregation of Salem Heller's has been 
home to true patriots and community leaders. At least 144 of its 
members have served our Nation in conflicts dating back to the American 
Revolution. One of the church's first ministers, John Philip Boehm, is 
recognized by many as the founder of the German Reformed Church in the 
United States. Today, the cemetery at Salem Heller's is the final 
resting place of more than 2,700 individuals, each one a contributor to 
the thriving and faithful community that continues to embody the spirit 
of Lancaster County.
  As the congregation concludes this year of celebration, it is fitting 
to honor its storied past and its promising future. For 300 years, 
Salem Heller's Evangelical Reformed Church has served as a bastion of 
faith and community for the people of Lancaster County. As generations 
continue to worship in this historic church, I know the congregation 
will continue to serve its mission to both the community and its faith.
  I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the congregation of Salem 
Heller's Evangelical Reformed Church and wish them continued blessings 
as they celebrate their 300th anniversary.

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