History of Zion Lutheran Church
Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Doylestown, OH was founded by German-speaking settlers from Pennsylvania. The congregation was organized in 1838 by the Rev. G.H. Weygandt. Pastor Weygandt helped establish and serve several churches in this part of Ohio.
In 1838, Zion and the Reformed Congregation worked together to purchase one acre of land and erect their first building. Both congregations used this building on alternate Sundays for worship. It has been said that many parishioners would come every Sunday to hear both kinds of messages. The joint ownership of the building and grounds continued for 30 years. In 1867, Zion purchased an adjoining lot to erect the present building.
By the late 1800’s Zion Lutheran and the Reformed congregation parted ways. The reformed members were free to unite with the Reformed congregation at “High Church” or any of the other churches in the village. To this day Zion and Emanuel United Church of Christ still work together through the Doylestown Ministerial Association.
Zion Lutheran has also had a long history of working with other Lutheran churches in Wayne County. Zion and St. Michael’s Lutheran Church in Marshallville shared pastors for well over a century until the 1960’s when Zion and St. Michael’s called their own pastors. The two congregations continue share ministry through the Wayne Area Lutheran Pastors’ Association, and through Lenten pulpit exchanges.
Through the years Zion has been blessed with new additions, acquisitions, and donations that have contributed to our mission to serve Christ here. In 1956 the education and fellowship wing was built. In 1976 a new steeple and carrillon were put into service. To this day Doylestowners set their watches to the chimes ringing on the half-hour.
In 2003 Zion celebrated its 165th anniversary as a community of faith serving the Lord. The public was invited to come to Zion for our celebration and open house. Photos and artifacts from our archives were on display.
God has blessed Zion Lutheran Church with a rich history. It has set the foundation for the exciting ministries that keep us alive in the Spirit today at Zion. Gifted people, generous stewards, and a commitment to Christ keep Zion focused on our ultimate mission: Sharing Christ’s love to Doylestown, Northeast Ohio, and the world.
