One hundred and fifty-five years ago, the village of Port Kennedy was a busy place.  Sitting on the south bank of the Schuylkill River, and populated primarily by immigrants from Northern Ireland.  The village consisted of 50 houses, several stores, band hall and the Port Kennedy Hotel.  To worship, the residents traveled to either Great Valley or Lower Providence.  Eventually worship meetings were being held in the various homes of the villagers.  In 1844 the Second Presbytery of Philadelphia, PA, approved the application to organize “a church of our own” in the village and on October 31st of that year the cornerstone was laid.Today, the village of Port Kennedy is history, having been “absorbed” into what is now the Valley Forge National Park, but the sturdy little church still stands.  The rolling hills that surround it are covered by apartments and condominiums to the east, an industrial complex to the south and a major expressway (Route 422) to the west.  Its members are spread over an area which now supports eight Presbyterian churches.  Still they come to worship and serve in “a church of their own.”

 To say that the years have not changed the church would be ridiculous.  Physically, the structure has had a bell tower added, the Sunday School room on the first floor has been divided into a chapel, nursery, choir room, bathrooms, office and pastor’s study.  A two-story Church School Building has been built where the stables once stood and the little cemetery is nearly full.  The blessing of memorial funds has made it possible to maintain the buildings in excellent condition.  Income from other bequests keep the cemetery immaculate.The people of Port Kennedy feel a strong connection with their 155 years of history.  Many of its members trace their Port Kennedy roots back several generations.  Traditions, like the repeating of John 3:16 before drinking the cup in communion, are treasured.  Change is a slow, studied process, but it does happen.  While 15% of our people have been members for more than 50 years, 23% have been members for less than 10 years.  Yes, we are growing and changing.  As is the surrounding community.