“Seeking serenity?” Northcliff Union Church stands as a testament to faith and community in Johannesburg. Northcliff Union Church at 42 Dawn Drive is more than just a building. It is a beacon of hope and a gathering place for many.
Northcliff Union Church holds regular Sunday services. You can attend services at 9 am or 6 pm. The church is located on the corner of Dawn and Pendoring Road in Northcliff.
Northcliff Union Church also hosts Wednesday services. These services start at 7:30 pm.
Northcliff Union Church is a Narcotics Anonymous meeting point. This shows its commitment to supporting the community in various ways. Updated in August 2021 the information is still relevant today.
The story of Union churches traces back to 17th-century Europe. German-speaking farmers sought refuge from political and religious turmoil. They found new homes in Pennsylvania.
The Penn family granted land to the Schlosser family. In 1755 the family donated about 100 acres for church use. Over time the land was adapted for the growing congregation.
Early services were led by traveling preachers. They served multiple churches on foot or horseback. In 1755 the first log church was built. It was near the old cemetery.
Initially called Schlosser’s Church it honored the land donors. Soon Lutherans joined the Reformed congregation. All services were in German until around 1920.
In 1797 a stone church replaced the log structure. It was near present-day State Highway 873. A schoolmaster lived nearby. He also served as the organist and cemetery caretaker.
The current brick building dates back to 1871. It cost $35350.62 to build. In 1930 stained glass windows replaced the clear ones.
Inside Northcliff Union Church a unique artwork existed. Augustus Steckel painted a reproduction of Ruben’s Descent from the Cross in 1916. This shows the blend of art and faith.
Around 1880 a two-room schoolhouse was built on church property. It served the community for many years.
In 1946 plans began for a Christian education facility. A row of horse sheds stood in the way. A snowstorm in 1948 solved the problem by collapsing them.
The cemeteries have evolved over time. Family plots became popular in 1866. Fences once kept stray animals out.
In 2000 the Lutheran congregation built their own facility. The United Church of Christ took ownership of the existing building. In 2003 new offices and accessibility improvements were added.
Northcliff Union Church stands as a symbol of unity. It is a place where history and community intertwine. Take a moment to appreciate the stories and the enduring spirit of faith. This place has been a spiritual home for generations.