Deepening Faith Through Community
Embrace Spiritual Growth
Join us on a transformative journey of faith, where worship, sacraments, education, service, and community care come together to nurture your spiritual life.
The Power of Worship in Faith
Styles of Worship
What will you find in our worship? While all our worship services include the liturgy of the Lutheran tradition, there are four different ways the liturgy is offered.
Traditional Worship with Full Sung Liturgy
Worshiping at our Sunday morning services, you will be joining with the faithful who worship with the hymns and liturgy with leadership being provided by the organ.
Traditional Spoken Liturgy
At our Saturday 5:00 PM service, you will worship by joining in a spoken liturgy with only a couple portions of the liturgy being sung. Hymns led by organ and occasionally piano are sung. The Sacrament of Holy Communion is offered weekly at this service.
Joyful Noise Worship
This service is held at the 10:30 AM service on the third Sunday of each month. The liturgical portions are spoken in contemporary language. Hymns are sung through the service and are accompanied by our combo comprised of keyboard, guitars, flute, percussion, and vocals.
Music Ministry
Youth Choir
We are thrilled to announce the formation of a Youth Choir! Open to Grades 3-12, all levels of experience! Rehearsals will take place on Wednesdays 5:30-6:00.
Sunday School Music
Sunday School students ages Pre k- Grade 2 will participate in music as part of their curriculum. Kids will have the opportunity to sing and play children’s instruments at select services during the year.
Instrumentalists and Soloists
If you sing or play an instrument, the Music Ministry is always looking for musicians for various opportunities throughout the year! All ages and skill levels are welcome!
Instrumentalists and Soloists
If you sing or play an instrument, the Music Ministry is always looking for musicians for various opportunities throughout the year! All ages and skill levels are welcome!
Adult Choir
We are blessed by the leadership of this talented choir which sings at the 10:30 AM Sunday service from the second Sunday of September through Pentecost Sunday. In addition, the choir sings at the evening services on Ash Wednesday, Good Friday, and Thanksgiving Eve, as well as the two candlelight Christmas Eve services and the first and third services on Easter. Rehearsals are held on Wednesdays at 7:00 PM from late August through May.
Bell Choir
Our beautiful Bell Choir can also be heard at several 10:30 services throughout the year, performing anthems of their own or accompanying our Adult Choir. Bells also play at certain Christmas and Easter Services. Bell Choir rehearses on Wednesdays at 6:00pm from late August through May.
Joyful Noise Ensemble
Interested in Contemporary Music worship? The Joyful Noise combo leads worship on the third Sunday of each month at the 10:30 service throughout the entire calendar year. Joyful Noise consists of guitars, keyboards, percussion, flute, vocals, and a variety of other instruments and features a blend of talented youth and adults. They rehearse two Mondays a month at 6:30 as well as 9:00 the Saturday before their upcoming service.
Requiem Choir
During the funeral service at the church, the Requiem Choir, comprised of volunteers from the church, will sit in the choir loft to lead the liturgy, the singing of the hymns, and to be a visible support to all those gathered who grieve and mourn. Those who wish to be a part of the Requiem Choir are welcome to see or contact Laurie Racculia.
From PreK to Adult, beginner to professional- all are welcome to help lead worship through music! The Harrold Zion Ministry of Music offers a variety of ensembles and opportunities! Interested? Contact Director Laurie Racculia!
Sacraments: Pathways to Grace
The Sacrament of Holy Baptism
It is our joy to welcome the baptized to the Lord’s family. Through the Sacrament of Baptism, we are freed from sin, reborn as children of God, receive the promises of inheritors of eternal life and given the name Child of God. By baptism we become members of the church which is the body of Christ. Because of God’s unfailing love and grace, a person is only baptized once.
As Lutherans, we predominantly baptize children. However, it is not uncommon to welcome older children and adults to the Lord’s family through the Sacrament of Holy Baptism. You are welcome to include sponsors in the life of the one to be baptized. The sponsors walk with the baptized in their life of faith and support them as they grow in the life of the Church and participate in its mission in the world.
To a schedule a baptism, please contact the Parish Office at 724-837-7327
First Communion Class
First Communion Class is held in November and again in March each year. At least one parent attends with their child as they work together to read Bible stories about Communion, learn the importance of the gift of God’s forgiveness, and embrace the love of God as he comes to them in this sacrament.
The Sacrament of Holy Communion
Christ calls us to the table of the Lord and gathers us as his people. Through the body and blood of Christ in the bread and wine, we receive the forgiveness of sin and the joy of the hope of eternal life where we gather around the heavenly feast. Communion is open to all who are baptized and believe. Children who have completed instruction will receive their First Communion and are welcome to the table. Children who do not receive communion are invited to come forward to receive a blessing.
Marriage
Those whom God has joined together….
Weddings are a special time of celebration at Harrold Zion. It is a sacred time and all that is a part of the wedding ceremony reflects such a time in this sacred space. As stated in the marriage service, the scriptures teach us that the bond and covenant of marriage is a gift of God, a holy mystery in which two become one flesh, and an image of the union of Christ and the Church.
Those who have any questions or would like to marry at Harrold Zion are welcome to contact the church (724-837-7327) at least three months in advance of the wedding date. The couple will meet three times with the pastor to plan the marriage service. As you plan the time of your wedding and reception, it is important to know that weddings at Harrold Zion can begin no later than 2:30 PM due to the 5:00 PM Saturday evening service.
Easter weekend is a closed period for weddings due to the solemnity of those days (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday). For information on being married at Harrold Zion, please contact the church office.
Funerals
The Church mourns with those who mourn as we remember one’s passing in this time on earth. During the Rite of Christian Burial, we thank God for the one who has entered eternal life and entrust our brother or sister into the hands and keeping of God. We commit one into God’s keeping and in the knowledge that we are marked with the cross of Christ forever, we trust in the hope of the resurrection to eternal life. The family will meet with the pastor to plan the service, choose hymns and lessons that will have meaning for the one for whom we give thanks and for those who grieve and mourn. Family and friends are welcome to participate as readers of scripture and Communion Assistants.
For more information on either of these Rites of the Church, please call the Church Office at 724-837-7327.
If you would like to purchase a burial plot in the Harrold Zion Cemetery, please call the church office.
Gathering and Caring for One Another
Educational Pathways to Faith
Gathering together is at the heart of building a strong, supportive community. At Harrold Zion, we offer numerous activities that bring people together, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose.
Sunday School
Join us for a vibrant and engaging Sunday School experience! Our classes are designed to help children and adults alike deepen their understanding of the Bible and their faith. We offer a variety of age-appropriate lessons, music, and activities that foster a love of learning and a connection to God’s Word.
Whether you’re a long-time member or new to the church, we welcome you to join us for Sunday School and discover the joy of learning together.
Vacation Bible School
Every June, a large and dynamic Vacation Bible School is held for one week. Each year, as the children rotate to various stations each day, they get excited learning Bible stories and of God’s great love of us. Crafts, music, lessons, snack, recreation and more await each participant!
Faith Formation
Children and Youth Studies
Sunday school classes for children and youth are held September through May of each year.
Adult Studies
Harrold Zion is committed to providing opportunities for growth in faith for adults. Adult Bible Study meets each Sunday September through May to discuss and gain a deeper understanding of the scripture lessons which are read in the weekend worship services. During the five Wednesdays of Lent, we engage in a time of study where we study various topics which relate the penitential theme of the Lenten season. Women’s Bible Study – This study meets at 10:00 AM every Friday from October through May.
Any questions about Adult Studies, can be directed to Pastor Caroline Clifford at 724-837-7327.
Confirmation Ministry
Youth in grades 7 and 8 are involved in the two year Confirmation Ministry of the church as they prepare to profess their faith in Christ and assume responsibilities in the life of the church. The classes include discussion and activities that help them to grow in faith and life. In addition to a study of the scriptures and teachings of the church, discussion on current life and issues the youth face are looked at through the eyes of faith. Service to the community is a vital part of these years of learning. During the two years of Confirmation, each youth is partnered with a home-bound member from the church, travel to a local nursing facility to lead worship and visit residents once a month, pack and send care packages during finals to our church’s college students, and help in various other community needs. Classes are offered Sunday morning at 9:15 AM between services.
Evening, Small Group Study Opportunities
We have several adult education opportunities here at Harrold Zion.
1. Sunday morning Bible study 9:15am, Led by Pastor Caroline.
2. Women’s Friday morning Bible Study at 10 AM Fridays during the school year, Led by Linda Boyer.
3. The men’s ministry gathers on the second Saturday of each month at 8:00am.
4. Book studies events led by Pastor Fitch and Pastor Clifford. Check the newsletters and bulletins for information on upcoming events.
We have also been having mid-week classes, either using a book study or a video study. Most recently we have been having a class on forgiveness. In the summer, we had class at a local coffee shop focused on finding time to build a relationship with God in midst of busy lives. During Lent, we will have mid-week worship that may also include Bible study.
Youth & Families
Kids Gathering
During the five Wednesday evening Lenten worship services, elementary age children are invited to the large Sunday School room for a special Lenten lesson. Weekly lessons focus on the road to the cross in an age appropriate setting.
Youth and Family Events
Annual events throughout the year include: Winter V.B.S., Palm Sunday Breakfast, Easter Egg Hunt, Splash Day, Hempfield Homecoming Parade Picnic, Halloween Party, and the Children’s Christmas Program. New events are always being planned throughout the year by the Youth and Family Committee. Committee meetings are the first Sunday of the month, after 10:30 am service.
Harrold Zion Youth on the Go
Summer Camp
During the summer months, many children and youth from Harrold Zion will spend a week of church camping at either Camp Lutherlyn or Camp Sequanota. Younger children will spend three days to gain the experience of the joys of church camping. The church assists in the funding for each camper from Harrold Zion.
Our youth are a vital part of our life at Harrold Zion. We welcome and encourage our youth be the amazing person God has created them to be. Come and join us in our activities and worship where youth are welcomed as they participate with their unique gifts from God.
Youth are very active and visible at Harrold Zion. Here are a few of the ways:
- Lectors – Read scripture lessons in worship
- Acolytes, Crucifers (Cross bearers), Banner Bearers
- Participate in retreats
- Attend the All Lutheran Youth Gathering every three years
- Go on a summer trip
- Participate in events that help the needs of our communities
- Dinners, talks, and other activities throughout the year.
ELCA National Youth Gatherings
Every three years, 30,000 high school youth and their adult leaders from across the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America gather for a week of faith formation known as the ELCA Youth Gathering. Through days spent in interactive learning, worship, Bible study, service, and fellowship, young people grow in faith and are challenged and inspired to live their faith daily.
Building Community Through Fellowship
Harrold Zion Lutheran Church thrives on its strong sense of community, fostered by members actively serving one another and their neighbors. From volunteering in the church’s food pantry and assisting with youth programs to participating in local outreach initiatives, members demonstrate a deep commitment to serving others and living out their faith.
This dedication strengthens the bonds within the congregation and extends a welcoming hand to the wider Harrold community.
Service to the Church
Distribution of the Sacrament to the Sick and Homebound
Each of our homebound members receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion which is brought to them by members of the congregation. The bread and wine which is consecrated during worship is received by those involved in this ministry and taken into the residence of our sick and homebound. This is an extension of our worship and continues to include our sick and homebound as vital members of this parish.
Christmas Caroling
On a Sunday afternoon prior to Christmas, members of the church Christmas carol to all of our homebound members to lift their spirits, celebrate the joy of the season, and let them know that they are appreciated and loved.
Other areas of service
There are many other areas of service within the church, be it volunteering for a specific ministry where an individual can share their talents, to those who participate within the leadership of our worship services. If you have any questions concerning service to the church, please contact the pastor at 724-837-7327.
Helping Hands
Individuals provide a luncheon following the funeral of a church member. Those who attend are welcomed by those assigned to set up and prepare the meal during this time of loss. In addition to those who prepare and serve the lunch, members of the church are often contacted to provide food dishes such as salads and desserts.
Provide Meals
When someone in the church is ill, has returned home from the hospital and is recuperating, celebrate the birth of their new child, or for various other reasons, members of the church help by providing meals at home during their difficult time. The coordinator of this ministry seeks and contacts members who provide the meals for a period of time determined by the recipient of the meals and the coordinator.
Prayer Chain
More than forty members of the church participate in this ministry which provides prayer for those who request it due to various situations in their lives. Those who pray receive the request either by email or by phone every Sunday evening. Often times other requests are received throughout the week.
Service to the World
Lutheran World Relief (LWR) and Quilts
Twice a month, two groups make quilts for Lutheran World Relief. These quilts are useful for shielding against the cold and rain, for warm bedding, be purposed as simple tents, floor coverings, or a wrap to hold a baby on a mother’s back. We also support LWR financially to support life-saving aid in this world when support is needed most. For further information, visit www.lwr.org.
Lutheran World Hunger
Working with and through Harrold Zion and all ELCA congregations in the U.S., Lutheran churches around the world, and other partners, ELCA World Hunger is uniquely positioned to reach communities in need. From health clinics to microloans, community meals to advocacy, ELCA World Hunger support sustainable solutions that get at the root causes of hunger and poverty. During Lent, Harrold Zion puts a strong emphasis on supporting Lutheran World Hunger by sponsorship of some of the items which brings hope to those in need in our world.
Lutheran Disaster Response
Whether it is disasters due to fires, tsunamis, flooding, and other disasters throughout the world. Lutheran Disaster Response brings God’s hope, healing and renewal to people whose lives have been disrupted by disasters in the United States and around the world. When the dust settles and the headlines change, we stay to provide ongoing assistance to those in need.
Service to the Community
Food 2 Go 4 Kids
Harrold Zion actively participates in the Food 2 Go 4 Kids program at Fort Allen Elementary School and West Point Elementary School. Food 2 Go 4 Kids provides weekend backpack lunches for children who are not eating meals over the weekend. Harrold Zion organizes this lunch program and cooperates with area churches so children are fed every weekend of the school year. Harrold Zion, in cooperation with Conforti’s Restaurant in Irwin, holds burger bashes throughout the year to raise funds and awareness of this program.
Holiday Sponsorships
During the holidays, many area children are able to have the Christmas they hoped to have. To help make this happen, Harrold Zion receives information on children from the school district and then provides gifts for 60 children from area elementary schools. Harrold Zion coordinates this program as many church members, along with the support businesses and organizations, work together to offer a Merry Christmas to those in need.
Reindeer Tree
Members of Harrold Zion reach out to Westmoreland Mental Health to provide items for clients and residents during the Christmas season. Members are invited to take a paper ornament from a tree in the church on which is written the items that are needed. These items are brought to the church and then distributed to the Westmoreland Mental Health.
Prayer Shawl Ministry
Those involved in this ministry gather two Tuesdays each month to make prayer shawls which are then given to individuals who are in need of the comfort of God. Their need may be due to illness, loss of job, death of a loved one, life transitions, or any other situations where an individual is in need of the warmth embrace of God. The prayer shawls are given to members of the church or to others of our community who
request a prayer shawl for a family member or friend.
The group also makes prayer squares which are placed in the narthex of the church and are for anyone to take when they are at the church. These prayer squares can be placed in pockets, purses, backpacks, and other places where they remind the individual that the love and comfort of God goes with them wherever they go.
Hannah’s Socks
Each fall, Harrold Zion collects new socks for an organization known as Hannah’s Socks. This is a community organization dedicated to helping people affected by homelessness, poverty and domestic abuse. New socks are given to those in need through shelter homes, public schools in our community and through other states.
Mission
We are exploring options for mission here at Harrold Zion. We are looking to do adult mission, which may include doing service work at the youth camps here in Western PA. We are also hoping to find a youth mission activity that would be close to home. Stay tuned for plans.
Potential plans include: service to Lutheran summer camps (adults), and Mission for kids in Westmoreland County. Details will be included once decisions are made.
Union Mission
The Union Mission is a faith-based organization providing resources to those without shelter and assisting them in building self-reliance leading to a transition to safe, affordable, and sustained housing. Harrold Zion’s men’s group, along with the church’s senior group, strongly support the mission with financial assistance, clothing drives, and collecting items that the mission needs.
Meals on Wheels
Meals on Wheels America is the leadership organization supporting the more than 5,000 community-based programs across the country that are dedicated to addressing senior isolation and hunger. Meals are delivered Monday through Friday by several members and friends of Harrold Zion who serve as drivers to deliver meals to those of the Fort Allen and Greensburg routes. The church also provides financial assistance which helps with the needs of some of the recipients on the Fort Allen route.
Assists Other Area Organizations
As needed, Harrold Zion supports and assists with other area community agencies such as Habitat for Humanity (in conjunction with Thrivent Financial) that helps to alleviate suffering and need within our communities.
Ministries of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod
Harrold Zion is a supporter of many of the ministries of the Southwestern Pennsylvania Synod of the ELCA. To learn more about these ministries, please visit www.swpasynod.org.
Local organizations
The church opens its doors for various clubs and organizations. Among them are the local Herb Club and Compassionate Friends which provides highly personal comfort, hope, and support to every family experiencing the death of a son or a daughter, a brother or a sister, or a grandchild, and helps others better assist the grieving family. (for information on Compassionate Friends, please go to www.compassionatefriends.org).
Harrold Zion is also pleased to host as the sponsor for Boy Scout Troop #465 for more than 50 years.
Gathering and Caring
Senior Ministry
THE SONSHINERS is an “over 50” (senior) group that was formed in October 2010. This lively and enthusiastic group of couples and singles meets on the second Wednesday of each month at the Church.
In addition to sharing lunch together, a different program is presented each month, followed by a short business meeting when required. Informative speakers, entertainment, day trips, as well as outreach opportunities within and outside the church, are scheduled for this year. Look for information on the next monthly luncheon and plan on attending and enjoying good food, fun, and fellowship.
College Ministry
Several of our members are college students who are preparing for their future.
They continue to remain in our hearts and prayers. During the times of college breaks, students who are home are invited to serve as worship participants if they so choose.
Care packages are sent to our college students as they are preparing for finals. These packages are put together by Harrold Zion’s Youth and Family Committee.
Men’s Ministry
The Men’s Prayer Group meets in the Church’s social hall on the second Saturday of each month at 8:00 AM. During these gatherings, a continental breakfast is served, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere. All men of the congregation are encouraged to join for a time of fellowship, prayer, and meaningful discussion. The group is deeply involved in the life of the church and actively participates in community outreach. Some of their notable efforts are supporting children in need during the Christmas season, ensuring that these children experience the joy and love of the holiday. They also partner with the Union Mission for Men in providing needed items.
Stephen Ministry
Stephen Ministry is the one-to-one lay caring ministry that takes place in congregations that use the Stephen Ministry Series. Stephen Ministry congregations equip and empower lay caregivers—called Stephen Ministers—to provide high-quality, confidential, Christ-centered care to people who are hurting. The Stephen Ministers also assist the pastor with hospital visitations and provide care for members who are going through their final steps of life.
At Harrold Zion, there are many areas to serve in worship, Christian Education, youth, committees, or any of the tasks that require volunteers. If you would like to serve in any way or have questions on how you may serve, please contact Fred Wineman at the church, 724-837-7327.
God loves and cares for animals
Pet Blessing
Harrold Zion hosts its annual blessing on the Sunday closest to the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi (October 4) who called each pet his brother and sister. On that day the community of adults and children gathers with their pets to give thanks to God for the gift of our pets as we bless each one individually.
Dogs, cats, hermit crabs, goats, gerbils, guinea pigs, rabbits, and even horses have gathered and have joined their voices in praise of their creator.