Calvary Allentown Celebrates
Rev Mardy von Harten
40th Ordination Anniversary

Jeff writes ...
Sunday May 20th, was another special day in the life of Calvary Baptist, Allentown, but a VERY special in the life of their pastor, Rev. Manfred von Harten. Three baptisms were conducted and a total of five people were received into membership, including the Rukambe's from Zimbabwe. During and after the service, the congregation celebrated the 40Tth anniversary of Pastor Mardy's ordination, given him back in 1979 by the Community Baptist Church in Chaffee, NY. Nearly half of those forty years have been spent serving at Calvary. Congratulations were read from the various congregations Pastor Mardy served through the years. Actually, literally while our region's letter was being read, the Chaffee Church called in to give their congrats live! Pastor Mardy was then surrounded by the leadership of the church asking a continuing blessing on his continuing ministry. Following the sermon, "Living Your Baptism" and the conclusion of the worship service, a reception was held where gifts were given and cake was enjoyed! It was a wonderful day for everyone, not the least of whom were the Harten's ... Pastor Mardy and Peggy. Truly, this church lives out its mission mantra it developed during their co::lab (vision) work a few years back, "Growing Lives by Embracing Everyone in the Love of Christ."