Harlingen Reformed Church to Celebrate Centennial of its Church House

Nicholas Mistretta

MONTGOMERY — The Harlingen Reformed Church will mark a century of history and community service with a Centennial Celebration of its Church House (Fellowship Hall/Gymnasium) on Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025.

The day will begin with a special worship service at 10 a.m. honoring the hall’s history and the generations of ministry it has supported. Following the service, the congregation will hold a re-dedication of the Church House/Fellowship Hall as a continued resource for the wider community. The program will also feature photo re-enactments highlighting the building’s past, and will conclude with a potluck lunch. All events are open to the public.

The Harlingen Reformed Church has deep roots in Montgomery history. Originally located near the old Belle Mead Inn by the cemetery, the church moved to its present location at the corner of Route 206 and Harlingen Road in 1750.

The Church House was constructed in 1925 and remodeled in 2021. In its early years, it doubled as the auditorium for Montgomery Elementary School when the school was housed in the neighboring building—formerly the Gasior’s property and now home to the Allegra School of Music.

Over the decades, the hall has hosted community meals, served as the site of fundraisers for the local firehouse, and provided space for both social gatherings and support programs. Congregation members describe its ministry as one of hospitality and service, offering “a ministry of space” to the community.

Pastor Chris Heitkamp, who has led Harlingen Reformed Church for the past eight years, will preside over the celebration. A former United States Marine, Pastor Heitkamp has emphasized the church’s mission to remain deeply connected to Montgomery while honoring its long heritage.

“Harlingen’s Church House has always been more than just a building,” he said. “It has been a place where people come together in faith, service, and community. This centennial celebration is both a look back at where we’ve been and a re-dedication to the work that still lies ahead.”

Photo Credit: Nicholas Mistretta/headlinenewsmontgomery.com