In 1825, America had seen tremendous religious growth because of The Second Great Awakening. John Winebrenner felt called by God to begin holding religious revivals and camp meetings across the young nation. When Reverend Winebrenner carried his message to the people of Central Pennsylvania, a local movement began. Winebrenner himself recalled, “About this time more extensive and glorious revivals of religion commenced in different towns and neighborhoods,” including Mount Joy. Thus, the Churches of God General Conference had begun, and it was into this setting that the Mount Joy Church of God was born.

When the winter of 1830-31 arrived, Reverend Winebrenner held a great revival in Mount Joy. Many residents were converted under his preaching. The Mount Joy Church of God was officially formed on the evening of March 15, 1831, organized by John Winebrenner with 35 members. It was Winebrenner’s belief that, “The name or title, Church of God, is undeniably the true and proper appellation by which the New Testament church ought to be designated. This is her scriptural and appropriate name.” 

The church originally met in a log schoolhouse, known as “Log Hall”. Located at the eastern end of town along the east bank of the Little Chiques Creek. The people worshipped there until 1838, when a new Bethel was built in the west end of town, known as Richland. The new Bethel was dedicated on December 23, 1838.