MYERSTOWNZIONUMC - Key Persons
My name is Barbara Kriston and I am the director of the Senior Choir, King's Kids, Men of Zion and Sisters of Zion. I have been involved in the music groups of the church since 1975. I am a retired Spanish teacher from Northern Lebanon School District and a graduate of Albright College. I have two sons and one daughter. I enjoy reading, gardening, bike riding, and water aerobics. Being a transplant from Johnstown, I have been blessed to have found a church that has always felt like home. Always considered to be a very music centered church, Zion was a perfect fit for me.
Carrie Callahan made a commitment to serve Jesus Christ on the mission field at the altar railing of Zion UMC. She has served as a missionary teacher and church musician in South Korea, Hong Kong, China, Guam, Cambodia and presently serves in Pápa, Hungary. Carrie's goal is to bring the message of the saving power of Jesus Christ to the children of the world. She received her training from Zion UMC, Appalachian Bible College, Hong Kong Baptist University and Liberty University.
David Schell, a native of Myerstown, has served as organist/pianist at Zion Church for the past 44 years where he and his wife Anna are active members. David is a graduate of Lebanon Valley College where he majored in Music Education and Organ Performance. "It has been a joy serving our Lord and working with the other staff members at Zion".
As Communications Director I will strive to support the good works here at Zion. Our website and Facebook are great tools for both our congregation and the community to stay in tune with church happenings. I have worked in the Graphic Arts field for over 30 years.
I reside in Lebanon with my wife Pat. We have 2 wonderful grand-daughters, whom we get to see quite often. Music, cooking and spending time with my family are some things I enjoy.
Rob Dagen has been associate pastor at Zion since 2017 and youth director since 2012. He also plays the bass guitar in the Zion worship team. Rob is also employed at William's Apothecary in Lancaster and is a graduate of Eastern University and Evangelical Seminary. In his spare time, he enjoys playing golf, games, and the piano, as well as listening to music. Rob lives in Manheim with his wife, Keara, sons, Diggory & Ewan, and daughters, Kit and Piper.
Zion Church was started under the leadership of Rev. Samuel Enterline. In the spring of 1843 a service was conducted at the corner of Main and Railroad Streets. An invitation was given by Mr. John Daniel to have Rev. Enterline preach at his home on Sunday April 25, 1843, and ever since then, April 25 has been recognized as Anniversary Day.
A new brick church was constructed in 1869 and the first worship service was held in the present church