St. James Lutheran Gettysburg

Common Ground Movie
2024-10-15 19:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | United Lutheran Seminary, 61 Seminary Ridge, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
All are invited, so please mark your calendar for Tuesday, October 15 from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. in the auditorium at Valentine Hall, United Lutheran Seminary (Gettysburg) to view the film Common Ground.
Written as a love story to our children, the film is a sweeping and uplifting story of the pioneers of the “Regenerative Movement” who are forgoing the toxic seeds and sprays pushed by Big Ag in order to produce tremendous quantities of nutritionally dense food while bringing our entire ecosystem back to life.
Common Ground profiles a hopeful movement of white, black, and indigenous farmers who are using alternative “regenerative” models of agriculture that could balance the climate, save our health, and stabilize America’s economy – before it’s too late.
The film is an urgent call to action and a plan for how we can save the future, heal our climate, and fix our broken food system – all through regenerative agriculture.
United Lutheran Seminary
61 Seminary Ridge
Gettysburg, PA
Movie viewing in Valentine Hall
Enter building from the parking lot side, accessible off of Springs Avenue

Reformation
2024-10-26 - 2024-10-27 | St. James Worship Space, 109 York Street, Gettysburg
Reformation is a special celebration in the Lutheran Church starting with Martin Luther’s 95 Theses in 1517.
Rooted in the past and growing into the future, the church must always be reformed in order to live out the love of Christ in an ever-changing world. We celebrate the good news of God’s grace, that Jesus Christ sets us free every day to do this life-transforming work. Trusting in the freedom given to us in baptism, we pray for the church, that Christians will unite more fully in worship and mission.
We worship each weekend
Saturdays at 5:30 p.m. and Sundays at 8:15 a.m. & 10:45 a.m. All are welcome and we would love for you to come & worship!
Readings for Reformation
Jeremiah 31:31-34
I will write my law in their hearts, says the Lord.
Psalm 46
The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold. (Ps. 46:7)
Romans 3:19-28
Justified by God’s grace as a gift.
John 8:31-36
Jesus says, Continue in my word and you will know the truth.

Getting to St. James
For your convenience, a small parking lot is available at the rear of the church, off Zerfing Alley. There is also handicap accessible parking spaces and a ramp into the rear entrance of the church. An elevator is available in the building as well.
Parking meters line York, Stratton and Middle Streets. Street parking is free on Sundays until 1:00 p.m.
The Gettysburg Parking Garage is within walking distance of the church as well.
St. James is a Reconciling In Christ congregation; All are Welcome!
Our facility is handicapped accessible.

Hymn Festival: Reformation Celebration
2024-10-27 16:00 - 18:00 | Christ Lutheran Chuch, 30 Chambersburg Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
A Hymn Festival for Reformation Sunday
Voices Raised to You
Sunday, October 27, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.
located at Christ Lutheran Church, 30 Chambersburg Street, Gettysburg
Join us as the choirs of Gettysburg’s two historic Lutheran churches lead us on a musical journey through Europe, Africa, and the Americas.
Christ Lutheran Cantor, Cathy Elkiss and St. James’ Minister of Music, Jonathan Noel created this festival to promote the common heritage and historic connection between our churches.
Let us come together and celebrate! The event is free and all are welcome!
Getting to Christ Lutheran
Limited parking is available at the rear of the Christ Lutheran church building, including a handicapped space. Christ Lutheran’s parking lot can be accessed from Zerfing Alley off of South Washington Street. Metered on-street parking is available on Chambersburg Street and around the block.
The Gettysburg Parking Garage is within walking distance of the church.
Christ Lutheran is handicapped accessible via ramps from the front and rear of the church building. The entrance for the elevator is underneath the connecting bridge through the single door on the Christian Education building (44 Chambersburg Street). Take the elevator to the second floor to access the sanctuary.

All Saints
2024-11-02 - 2024-11-03 | St. James Worship Space, 109 York Street, Gettysburg
As part of the All Saints Celebration, we lift up all of the saints who have passed since the last All Saints. We toll the bell, remembering each person individually. This remembrance gives great comfort and peace, and gives those still grieving another opportunity to continue healing.
Of all three years of the lectionary cycle, this year’s All Saints readings have the most tears. Isaiah and Revelation look forward to the day when God will wipe away all tears; in John’s gospel, Jesus weeps along with Mary and all the gathered mourners before he demonstrates his power over death. On All Saints Day we celebrate the victory won for all the faithful dead, but we grieve for our beloved dead as well, knowing that God honors our tears. We bring our grief to the table and find there a foretaste of Isaiah’s feast to come.
We worship each weekend
Saturdays at 5:30 p.m. and Sundays at 8:15 a.m. & 10:45 a.m. All are welcome and we would love for you to come & worship!
Readings for All Saints
Isaiah 25:6-9
The banquet of the Lord.
Wisdom 3:1-9 (alternate)
The righteous are with God.
Psalm 24
They shall receive blessing from the God of their salvation. (Ps. 24:5)
Revelation 21:1-6a
A new heaven and a new earth.
John 11:32-44
The raising of Lazarus.
Getting to St. James
For your convenience, a small parking lot is available at the rear of the church, off Zerfing Alley. There is also handicap accessible parking spaces and a ramp into the rear entrance of the church. An elevator is available in the building as well.
Parking meters line York, Stratton and Middle Streets. Street parking is free on Sundays until 1:00 p.m.
The Gettysburg Parking Garage is within walking distance of the church as well.
St. James is a Reconciling In Christ congregation; All are Welcome!
Our facility is handicapped accessible.

Family Bowling Night
2025-02-23 16:00 - 18:00 | Rockwell Lanes, 2855 Biglerville Road, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
Sunday, February 23
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Rockwell Lanes, 2855 Biglerville Road
Come for a fun night of bowling…all ages are welcome to come! Youth (18 and under) are covered by the church. Parents and adults are responsible for paying for themselves.
RSVP here so we are sure to reserve enough lanes to get a couple of games in for everyone.

Holy Week
2026-04-01 - 2026-04-03 | St. James Worship Space, 109 York Street, Gettysburg
During Holy Week some communities gather each day to meditate on Jesus’ final days before his death on the cross. Today’s gospel commemorates the anointing of Jesus by Mary, a foreshadowing of his death and burial. Isaiah speaks of the suffering servant who is a light for the nations and who faithfully brings forth justice. For Christians, Jesus’ suffering is the path to resurrection and new life. We eagerly await the celebration of the great Three Days later this week.
March 31 – Holy Tuesday: Stations of the Cross
7:00 p.m.
April 1 – Holy Wednesday: Holden Evening Prayer with Pastoral Dialog.
7:00 p.m. (no dinner)
Livestreamed on our YouTube Channel.
April 2 – Maundy Thursday
7:00 p.m.
Livestreamed on our YouTube Channel.
This evening our Lenten observance comes to an end, and we gather with Christians around the world to celebrate the Three Days of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Tonight we remember Christ’s last meal with his disciples, but the central focus is his commandment that we live out the promise embodied in this meal. As Jesus washed his disciples’ feet, so we are called to give and receive love in humble service to one another. Formed into a new body in Christ through this holy meal, we are transformed by the mercy we have received and carry it into the world. Departing worship in solemn silence, we anticipate the coming days.
April 3 – Good Friday
7:00 p.m.
Livestreamed on our YouTube Channel.
Life and death stand side by side as we enter into Good Friday. In John’s passion account, Jesus reveals the power and glory of God, even as he is put on trial and sentenced to death. Standing with the disciples at the foot of the cross, we pray for the whole world in the ancient bidding prayer, as Christ’s death offers life to all. We gather in solemn devotion, but always with the promise that the tree around which we assemble is indeed a tree of life. We depart silently, and we anticipate the culmination of the Three Days in the Easter Vigil.

Holy Wednesday, Unfailing Light Mid-Week Worship
2025-04-16 19:00 - 20:00 | PA
Wednesday, April 16 – Message by Mark Clowney
These forty days called Lent are like no other. It is our opportune time
to return to the God who rescues,
to receive the gifts of God’s grace,
to believe with the heart and confess with the mouth the wonder of God’s love in Jesus,
and to resist temptation at every turn.
Come & Worship. Come & Prepare this season of Lent.
We will gather in the worship space at 7:00 p.m. for our Unfailing Light mid-week worship services with messages shared by congregation members. This year’s theme is “Treasures in Heaven” and the theme scripture comes from our Ash Wednesday Gospel from Matthew 6: Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… Fore where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Wednesday, April 16 – Message by Mark Clowney, no dinner as it is Holy Week; all worship services are at 7:00 p.m. and there is no dinner provided
Directions & Parking Availability
St. James is a Reconciling In Christ congregation; All are Welcome!
Our facility is handicapped accessible. Please click the link above for additional information.

Vacation Bible School 2025
2025-06-02 09:00 - 2025-06-06 11:45 | Christ Lutheran Chuch, 30 Chambersburg Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
Come take a trek on the ultimate Alaskan adventure where the northern lights shine over majestic mountains, racing rivers, and sparkling glaciers! As youth trek the tundra together, they’ll discover how easy it is to lose sight of what’s true in our wild world today. Guiding them towards Jesus, True North VBS reveals that He is a faithful friend we can always trust. He’s our True North!
Kids will foster a deeper connection with our faithful friend, Jesus, while discovering the great Alaskan frontier and experiencing what it means to trust in Jesus. Prepare for amazing faith connections to unfold!
St. James Lutheran & Christ Lutheran join forces each summer for Vacation Bible School. This year, Christ Lutheran will be hosting True North VBS at their church, located at 30 Chambersburg Street, Gettysburg.
Monday – Friday, June 2-6, 9:00 a.m. until 11:45 a.m.
Pre-School – 5th Grade Youth
All are welcome! This is a FREE community event!
Register your Youth for VBS 2025: True North
Register to Volunteer

Community Dinner & Bluegrass Worship Service
2025-06-07 17:30 - 20:00 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
St. James is throwing open their doors for a Community Dinner and Bluegrass Worship Service.
All are welcome to attend dinner in our dining room, which begins at 5:30 p.m. Our Evangelism & Fellowship Committee are taking care of the meal, just come as you are and bring a friend!
Dinner Menu:

Turkey
Stuffing
Mashed Potatoes
String Beans
Pasta
Dessert

Please RSVP below so we are sure to prepare enough food. Be sure to click the gray “Submit” button. You’ll also get a confirmation email sent to you.
We will then move up to the worship space for our Bluegrass worship service at 7:00 p.m. We will have vocalists and instrumentalists leading us in up-lifting song. Our worship offering for the evening will benefit the Refugee Resettlement Partnership of Gettysburg, and their Up We Go Campaign to support their education and healthcare funds.
Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Household Name *EmailEmailConfirm Email(provide your email for confirmation)Number in attendance? *123456I plan to bring ... to share. (Thank you!)DessertRollsAnything else you'd like to share with us....Submit My Bluegrass RSVP
Directions & Parking Availability
St. James is a Reconciling In Christ congregation; All are Welcome!
Our facility is handicapped accessible. Please click the link above for additional information.

Rally Day & 'God's work. Our hands.' Sunday
2025-09-07 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
Rally Day is an important day of the year; as traditions remain strong, it is the start of Sunday School for all ages. Youth Sunday School classes have a fun filled first day! We have classes for our Preschool – 5th Graders; Confirmation class for 6th – 8th grade, and we have some new and exciting Sunday activities for our High School youth! Some of our adult Sunday School classes take a break during the summer months, while others continue through the summer, but everyone’s ready to get into a new fall routine! Learn more about our Sunday School classes.
Coincidentally, Rally Day is also ‘God’s work. Our hands.’ Sunday in the ELCA. God’s work. Our hands. Sunday is a significant date in the church, as it is a unified day of service across the nation. Churches all over America participate in community service projects.
St. James church members are active participants in community service events, along with other Lutheran churches in the community like Christ Lutheran in Gettysburg. Sign-up for a service project within Gettysburg and Adams County.
Community Projects include:

Assemble LWR School Kits
Camp Nawakwa Beautification
Lutheran World Relief Quilting
Ruth’s Harvest Food Collection
SpiriTrust Pollinator Garden Care
Fellowship with Agricultural Workers

Details for each Community Project location is included in the sign-up link.

Worship Assistant Training Session
2025-09-21 09:30 - 10:30 | St. James Worship Space, 109 York Street, Gettysburg
All are welcome to our Worship Assistant Training Session on Sunday, September 21. We are trying something different and offering a training between Sunday worship services at 9:30 a.m. Stay tuned for additional trainings during the week.
Our worship services are when we are all together and are our most meaningful opportunities of fellowship and faith. Would you like to play a more active role? We’d love to have you! We have opportunities for adults and youth to lead in worship.
Learn more about the variety of ways you can lead in worship!

Church Picnic
2025-09-28 13:30 - 17:00 | Vossler Farm, 665 Knoxlyn Road, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
Enjoy some good ol’ fashioned country church fellowship on the farm!
The Vosslers invite St. James to come to their farm for our Church Picnic, also known as the Annual Fall Festival & Blessing of the Animals.
We start the afternoon at 1:30 p.m. with the Blessing of the Animals which is a very brief prayer and blessing. Even if you don’t have animals to include in the blessing, all are welcome!
Then we will eat immediately following the blessing around 2:00 p.m. The church will provide pulled pork, rolls, water and lemonade. Please bring a side dish or dessert to share. At St. James we always try to go-green so please bring reusable place settings (plates, utensils, napkins). We will have a tent along with tables and chairs. If you’d like to bring your own chair, you are welcome to do that too.
There will also be carnival games and fun for the kids.
Bring the grandkids, bring your friends! Pray for great weather! And we’ll have a grand time!
RSVP to the Church Picnic!
Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Let us know if you'll make it to the Fall Festival & Blessing of the Animals on Sunday, September 28 at the Vossler's Farm.

665 Knoxlyn Road, Gettysburg

Blessing of the Animals - 1:30pm
Fellowship & Food - immediately afterwards, 2:00pm

Bring your animals (large & small, or none at all), a side to share, chairs, and reusable place settings. Pulled pork, rolls and beverages will be provided.

Even if you don't have any animals, this is our Annual Church Picnic - All are Welcome! I plan to bring.... *appetizer/snack foodsaladhot sidedessertotherHousehold Name *Email *Number Attending *select 123456+Submit

Bicycle Recycle Event
2025-10-11 09:00 - 12:00 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
We will be collecting no-longer-used bicycles on Saturday, October 11 in the St. James parking lot from 9:00 a.m. until noon. In the past three years, St. James youth have collected over 300 bicycles and donated them to Recycle Bicycle Harrisburg.
Recycle Bicycle strips bikes for parts and/or refurbishes them for people who need a bike for transportation or recreation. The bike shop is completely volunteer operated, and the bikes are given to people for free.
This is a great community effort supporting the Harrisburg area. You get to clean out some space in your garage or shed, but better yet, you are giving a new opportunity to another individual. They might use the bike to get to and from their work, go to school, visit and care for their family and friends. A simple old bike could open the door to great possibilities for another person!
To donate, please pull into the church parking lot via Zerfing Alley which is off Stratton Street.

Apple Gleaning
2025-10-19 15:00 - 16:30 | Adams County Nusery, 26 Nursery Road, Aspers, PA
Come on out for our annual fall apple picking trip: Apple Gleaning!
Adams County Nursery invites St. James & Christ Lutheran Churches to come pick apples on Sunday, October 19 at 3:00 p.m. The apples that we glean from the orchard will be donated to SCCAP’s food pantry, New Hope Ministries, Adam’s Rescue Mission, United Lutheran Seminary, St. James Early Learning Center, John’s Meals in Biglerville, and the Hanover Council of Churches.
In year’s past we have picked and donated about 40 bushels of apples.

Family Halloween Party
2025-10-21 17:00 - 19:00 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
All are invited to this ever growing community-wide Family Halloween Party at St. James.
We decorate our gathering area and worship space for some unearthly fun. We have carnival games to play. Our Youth Minister, Adam Michael organizes great games and activities for the youth. And we have a few snacks on hand in case anyone gets the munchies. We dim the lights in our worship space, and our Minister of Music, Jonathan Noel, plays eerie (but fun!) music on our organ. It really is a great evening for the whole family!
Then we go out onto the steps of the church and Youth House to watch the Gettysburg Halloween Parade along York Street. In the event of rain, we will post-pone our event, as it is in-junction with the Gettysburg Halloween Parade.
Check out the video of Jonathan playing organ music!
Directions & Parking Availability
St. James is a Reconciling In Christ congregation; All are Welcome!
Our facility is handicapped accessible. Please click the link above for additional information.

Annual Congregation Meeting
2025-11-16 12:00 - 13:30 | St. James Worship Space, 109 York Street, Gettysburg
Annual Congregation Meeting
Sunday, November 16 at noon, in-person only
St. James Worship Space
All members of St. James Lutheran Church are highly encouraged to attend the Annual Congregation Meeting.
The 2025 Annual Report is available online and in-print.
Additional support materials are available:

Revision to the Constitution & Bylaws
Current Endowment Policy
Proposed Policy 4.70.1 – Pastor’s Discretionary Fund; for Council to review and approve at a later date

The Annual Congregation Meeting is very important for church members to attend, and actively understand and participate in the meeting and discussion.
If you have any questions ahead of time, please speak with a council member or church staff.

Thanksgiving Eve: Fellowship & Bluegrass Worship Service
2025-11-26 17:30 - 20:00 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Eat at 5:30 p.m.
Worship at 7:00 p.m.
Come to St. James for our 4th Annual Thanksgiving Eve Fellowship & Bluegrass Worship Service.
All are invited to the table for a Thanksgiving Eve feast. Folks will be busy in the kitchen the next day, so we thought a fun and relaxing evening with a meal provided is just the ticket! We will eat at 5:30 p.m. in the St. James dining room. Dinner provided: Ham, pork, sauerkraut, mashed potatoes, green beans, and gravy. Please consider bringing a dessert or dinner rolls to share. You can indicate what you plan to bring on the RSVP form below.
Following the community dinner, at 7:00 p.m., we will move upstairs to the worship space for a fun and relaxed worship service featuring our Bluegrass liturgy. You’ll be sure to be tapping your foot along to the tunes! We will also be livestreaming the worship service to our YouTube channel.
Tell your friends! Invite your neighbor!
Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Household Name *Email *EmailConfirm Email(provide your email for confirmation)Number in attendance? *123456I plan to bring ... to share. (Thank you!)DessertRollsOtherWhat do you plan to bring?Anything else you'd like to share with us....Submit My Thanksgiving Eve RSVP
Getting to St. James
For your convenience, a small parking lot is available at the rear of the church, off Zerfing Alley. There are also handicap accessible parking spaces and a ramp into the rear entrance of the church. An elevator is available in the building as well.
Parking meters line York, Stratton and Middle Streets. The Gettysburg Parking Garage is within walking distance of the church as well.
St. James is a Reconciling In Christ congregation; All are Welcome!

Advent Mid-Week Worship
2025-12-03 17:15 - 19:30 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
Advent Mid-Week Worship at St. James Lutheran Church
Advent is the time to prepare for the birth of Christ.
Congregation Members will share messages of “Peace on Earth. Goodwill to All.”
Wednesday, December 3 – Susan Cole
Wednesday, December 10 – Amy & Steve Duncan
Wednesday, December 17 – Lucinda Bringman
Worship Services will be livestreamed to our YouTube Channel.
All are invited to St. James Lutheran Church’s Advent Mid-Week Worship Services on Wednesday evenings.
Fellowship is at 5:15 p.m. in our dining room, located in the lower level of the building. Please bring a covered dish to share.
Unfailing Light Worship Service is at 6:30 p.m. in our worship space.
Come & See! May blessings of peace and goodwill grace us all as we prepare for the birth of Christ!!
Directions & Parking Instructions
St. James is a Reconciling In Christ congregation; All are Welcome!
Our facility is handicapped accessible. Please click the link above for additional information.

Breakfast with Santa
2025-12-06 08:00 - 11:00 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
St. James will be decorated for a Winter Wonderland for Breakfast with Santa! Festivities will be located upstairs in the gathering area and breakfast will be served downstairs in the dining room.
9AM – 11AM
Children will have the opportunity to have photos taken with Santa Claus in his Santa House from 9am until 11am. This is first-come-first serve photo opportunity, and pre-registration is not required. Photos are free, and will be made available to you after the event.
8AM – 11AM
Breakfast will be served by church members. We’ll have pancakes, eggs, sausage, fruit and juice for a yummy-tummy-filling breakfast.
Breakfast with Santa is a free community event. Please invite your friends and help spread the word! We hold this annual tradition at our church in junction with the Gettysburg Christmas Festival.

Getting to St. James
St. James is a Reconciling In Christ congregation; All are Welcome!
Our facility is handicapped accessible. Please click the link above for additional information.
For your convenience, a small parking lot is available at the rear of the church, off Zerfing Alley. There is also handicap accessible parking spaces and a ramp into the rear entrance of the church. An elevator is available in the building as well.
Parking meters line York, Stratton and Middle Streets. Street parking is free on Sundays until 1:00 p.m.
The Gettysburg Parking Garage is within walking distance of the church as well.

Advent Mid-Week Worship
2025-12-10 17:15 - 19:30 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
Advent Mid-Week Worship at St. James Lutheran Church
Advent is the time to prepare for the birth of Christ.
Congregation Members will share messages of “Peace on Earth. Goodwill to All.”
Wednesday, December 10 – Amy & Steve Duncan
Wednesday, December 17 – Lucinda Bringman
Worship Services will be livestreamed to our YouTube Channel.
All are invited to St. James Lutheran Church’s Advent Mid-Week Worship Services on Wednesday evenings.
Fellowship is at 5:15 p.m. in our dining room, located in the lower level of the building. Please bring a covered dish to share.
Unfailing Light Worship Service is at 6:30 p.m. in our worship space.
Come & See! May blessings of peace and goodwill grace us all as we prepare for the birth of Christ!!
Directions & Parking Instructions
St. James is a Reconciling In Christ congregation; All are Welcome!
Our facility is handicapped accessible. Please click the link above for additional information.

Advent Mid-Week Worship
2025-12-17 17:15 - 19:30 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
Advent Mid-Week Worship at St. James Lutheran Church
Advent is the time to prepare for the birth of Christ.
Congregation Members will share messages of “Peace on Earth. Goodwill to All.”
Wednesday, December 17 – Lucinda Bringman
Worship Services will be livestreamed to our YouTube Channel.
All are invited to St. James Lutheran Church’s Advent Mid-Week Worship Services on Wednesday evenings.
Fellowship is at 5:15 p.m. in our dining room, located in the lower level of the building. Please bring a covered dish to share.
Unfailing Light Worship Service is at 6:30 p.m. in our worship space.
Come & See! May blessings of peace and goodwill grace us all as we prepare for the birth of Christ!!
Directions & Parking Instructions
St. James is a Reconciling In Christ congregation; All are Welcome!
Our facility is handicapped accessible. Please click the link above for additional information.

Christmas Caroling
2025-12-19 16:00 - 20:00 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
Faa la la la laa lalalala! We are going Christmas Caroling to spread holiday cheer!
We will travel together by school bus (if you prefer to caravan behind us, you are welcome to do that too).
Since we don’t want anyone to get hangry, we’ll have some pizza at 4:00 p.m. in the gathering area. If you would like to bring snacks to share (or cookies for afterwards), please indicate so on the RSVP form.
We’ll get on the bus around 5:00 p.m., make a couple of stops to shut-ins bringing them Christmas Cheer, and return to the church around 7:00/7:30-ish.
We’ll enjoy cookies and hot cocoa in the gathering area when we return to church. Please let us know if you anticipate joining for pizza so we order plenty.
It’s recommended that you bring a flashlight or your phone to read the provided songbook.
This is for voices of all ages! Please invite your friends to join!
If you could please RSVP (especially indicating if you are coming for pizza), that would be greatly appreciated!

Christmas Concert
2025-12-21 16:00 - 18:00 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
Songs of Wonder & Light
Christmas Concert
December 21, 2025, 4:00 p.m.
Performance by Master Singers of Virginia
We are excited to host the Master Singers of Virginia this Advent Season at St. James! Their special Christmas performance explores sacred mystery and sparkling joy in a season of hope. The program features a beautiful balance of reverent and festive works, including Eric Whitacre’s Lux Aurumque and Glow, as well as cherished carols like Silent Night and Ding Dong! Merrily on High.
Audiences will be invited to enter the warmth and wonder of the holidays through music that celebrates light emerging from darkness and joy shared in community.
Admission is free: no tickets or reservations are required. Bring your family and friends for an unforgettable celebration or light, music and meaning.
About the Master Singers of Virginia
The Master Singers of Virginia is a select, auditioned, volunteer ensemble of 42 singers.
Now in our 31st season, our mission is to enrich, educate and entertain audiences by providing high quality artistic programs in Northern Virginia and beyond; to give residents of the region the opportunity to hear and perform beautiful and challenging choral music; to encourage youth to become involved in choral music; and to increase awareness of and support for the arts throughout Northern Virginia and the Washington, D.C.-Baltimore area.
Getting to St. James
St. James is a Reconciling In Christ congregation; All are Welcome!
For your convenience, a small parking lot is available at the rear of the church, off Zerfing Alley. There is also handicap accessible parking spaces and a ramp into the rear entrance of the church. An elevator is available in the building as well.
Parking meters line York, Stratton and Middle Streets.
The Gettysburg Parking Garage is within walking distance of the church as well.

Christmas Eve
2025-12-24 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
Come Celebrate the Birth of Christ!
All are welcome to attend our festive worship services on Christmas Eve! We hope you will find them music and spirit-filled!
Wednesday, December 24
Our 4:00 p.m. service is a calming and reflective daylight worship service; the conclusion of the service will be carols & candlelight.
Our 6:00 p.m. service is family focused with decorations and a message for our youth, but all ages are sure to enjoy the service!
Worship Service will take place outside on Stratton Street.
Our 8:00 p.m. service is a traditional Christmas Eve candlelight service with choirs and music for the festival celebration.
Worship Service will be Livestreamed to our YouTube Channel.
All worship services are candlelight. Holy communion will be shared at 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. services. Hot cocoa will be shared at the 6:00 p.m. service.
Come and See! Come and celebrate the Birth of Christ at St. James. We’d love to share the Good News with you!
Directions & Parking Availability
St. James is a Reconciling In Christ congregation; All are Welcome!
Our facility is handicapped accessible. Please click the link above for additional information.
Stratton Street will be blocked from York Street to Zerfing Alley for a safe worship space for the 6:00 p.m. outdoor service. The church parking lot will be accessible by way of Middle Street to Stratton to Zerfing Alley. Please navigate through town accordingly.

Christmas Morning
2025-12-25 10:00 - 11:00 | St. James Worship Space, 109 York Street, Gettysburg
Come to a relaxed Christmas Morning worship service.
The Birth of Christ is the reason for the season!
We will also have light refreshments and coffee for a time of Fellowship at 9:30 a.m.

Lessons & Carols
2025-12-28 10:00 - 11:00 | St. James Worship Space, 109 York Street, Gettysburg
Christmas cheer & celebrations continue on Saturday & Sunday, December 27 & 28 with our Lessons and Carols Worship Services.
Worship on Saturday, December 27 at 5:30 p.m., or come Sunday morning, December 28 at 10:00 a.m. There will be no Sunday School on Sunday, but we will have a lite fellowship at 9:30 a.m.
Hear familiar bible stories and sing favorite carols and this relaxed and welcoming worship.

New Members Class
2026-02-08 12:00 - 14:00 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
Have you been attending St. James and loving our worship? Have you made some new friends in the pew or in Sunday School?
Do you feel like you’re ready to learn more about St. James and what it means to be Lutheran?
You’re invited to the New Members Class to get to know St. James on a deeper level! Pastor Andrew & Pastor Libby will lead the class, along with information from other members of staff and the church. Lunch will be provided by our Evangelism Committee.
All who are interested in learning more about St. James are invited to attend a New Member Class & Lunch. We’ll discuss what it means to be Lutheran, the Lutheran liturgy and worship style, the committees you can get involved with, and our passion to reach out and serve the community at large.
Our Mission: We respond to God’s abundant grace by being hearers, proclaimers, and doers of the Word.
Our Vision: Forgiven and invited to live and to love like Jesus.
This is just a great opportunity to learn more about the church; there’s no pressure to officially join in membership….We’re simply happy that you are happy to be here!
You can speak with Pastor Andrew or Pastor Libby if you plan to attend, or simply RSVP below.
One thing we will ask you to complete is a Prospective Member Form (one for each person in your household). This form is long but it collects all of the information for our database, and to learn more about you. If you are ready to share this information, you can do this at any time.
Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form.Name *FirstLastEmail *Number of People Attending *select number123456Names of people coming with you.Is there anything else you'd like to tell us? Any food allergies?Submit

Volunteer to Make Fastnachts
2026-02-14 - 2026-02-17 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
Volunteer to make fastnachts! February 14-17, 2026
St. James Lutheran Church, kitchen & dining room (a.k.a Fastnacht Central!)
St. James has a long tradition of making Fastnachts three days prior to Ash Wednesday. People throughout Gettysburg and Adams County enjoy this pre-Lenten delicacy.
Fastnacht sales support our Youth’s workcamp fund.
Won’t you join us in making fastnachts? There is a task for all people, of all abilities and talents! Here’s our process where we need lots of helpful hands!

Measuring
Mixing
Rising
Rolling
Cutting
Rising
Frying
Drying
Sugaring
Boxing

Sign-Up to Help Make Fastnachts!
Volunteer Slots are:

Saturday, 2/14

1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. (dough prep & rolling)

Sunday, 2/15

5:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. (frying)
9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. (dough prep & rolling)

Monday, 2/16 (ALL TASKS!) (PSA – kids are off from school for Presidents’ Day!)

10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
10:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m.

Tuesday, 2/17

2:00 a.m. – 6:00 a.m. (all tasks!)
6:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. (sell & clean up)

As you can see, this is a big task to take on, but lots of fun and there’s something for everyone! If you need have any questions, please speak with Kyle Smith, Adam Michael or any member of the youth committee or fastnacht crew (aka the Smith Family).
PLACE YOUR ORDER OF FASTNACHTS

Order Fastnachts
2026-02-15 - 2026-02-17 | St. James Lutheran Church, 109 York Street, Gettysburg, PA, 17325
Fastnachts are Back!
Enjoy the best fastnachts Gettysburg has to offer!
St. James Lutheran Church is continuing its long-time tradition of making from-scratch, old fashioned fastnachts.
We round up over 100 volunteers to make these pre-Lenten delicacies over a three-day period. All proceeds benefit St. James Youth Group.
Fastnachts are $10.00 a dozen. And pick-up will take place in the white garage located on Zerfing Alley (turn onto Zerfing Alley from Stratton Street).
When you place your order you will need to identify the day and time-frame in which you would like to pick up your fastnachts.
Sunday, February 15 (8:00 a.m. – noon)
Monday, February 16 (3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.)
Tuesday, February 17 (5:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.)
If you have any questions about placing an order, you are welcome to contact the church office (717-334-2012).
ORDER FASTNACHTS

Valentine Concert
2026-02-15 16:00 - 18:00 | St. James Worship Space, 109 York Street, Gettysburg
Valentine Benefit Concert: Love Songs from Classical to Contemporary
Come and hear a wonderful Valentine Concert by local St. James Superstars: Jesse Holt & Friends!
They have put on a Valentine Performance for a number of years, and you certainly don’t want to miss it!
Performances by: Jesse Holt, David Chapman, Suzanne Hubbard, Elaine Schade, Gretchen Carlson, Todd Izydorski, and Kirby Scott, to name a few.
This is a free concert & open to the community! A free-will offering will be collected and donated to the St. James Early Learning Center’s 35th Anniversary Fundraiser.

Directions & Parking Availability
St. James is a Reconciling In Christ congregation; All are Welcome!
Our facility is handicapped accessible. Please click the link above for additional information.
