Welcome to Christ Lutheran Church Harrisburg, where healing is at the heart of everything we do.
Founded in 1890, Christ Lutheran Church has long been a beacon of faith, hope, and healing in the Allison Hill neighborhood of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. We are more than just a place of worship—we support a diverse community where every individual is valued and embraced. The mission is to embody the love and grace of God through a diverse range of healing ministries and programs that touch the lives of those in need in the Allison Hill community.
We believe in a holistic approach to health, addressing the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of this community. Like a wheel, healing is the center, and the diverse ministries offered are the spokes that radiate outward, supporting the mission to serve and uplift those around us.
Healing Ministries
Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual
At Christ Lutheran Church, we recognize that healing comes in many forms. The ministries are designed to meet the varied needs of the Allison Hill community, whether someone is seeking physical health services, emotional support, or spiritual guidance.
Physical Healing
The physical healing ministries are focused on providing essential health services to those who may not have access to care elsewhere.
​
Medical Outreach Clinic:
Offering basic medical care, including treatment for common ailments like flu symptoms and high blood pressure. We are a lifeline for those who would otherwise rely on the emergency room for non-emergency issues.
​
Dental Clinic:
Dental health is critical to overall well-being. The clinic provides care for dental issues that, if left untreated, could lead to serious health complications.
​
Healthy on the Hill:
A community health initiative aimed at promoting wellness and preventing disease among vulnerable populations in the Allison Hill neighborhood.
Emotional Healing
We understand that healing goes beyond the physical. The emotional healing ministries are here to provide support and compassion.
​
Support Services: Whether someone is struggling with stress, loneliness, addiction, trafficking, or just needs someone to talk to, we see their humanity and offer a safe space. Individuals can share their struggles and be connected to additional support services.
​
Community Support Groups: We host various groups that provide a sense of belonging and a platform for individuals to connect and heal together.
​
Gather the Spirit for Justice: Gather the Spirit for Justice (GTS) is located in the bottom floor of Christ Lutheran Church. GTS offers Common Ground Coffee, which is open every Saturday, 9-11 a.m., offering light breakfast, fellowship, speakers, assistance in obtaining state ID’s, and English as a Second Language (ESL) classes (call the clinic to find out dates and times).​
​
Hospitality Center: Located in the clinic, the center is open every weekday offering beverages, phone, bathroom, and other services.
A lending library of bilingual children’s books is also available.
Spiritual Healing
Spiritual healing is at the core of our identity. We offer various forms of worship and spiritual support to nurture the soul.
Worship Services: The worship services are designed to provide spiritual nourishment and a sense of community. Whether you’re a regular attendee or seeking spiritual guidance for the first time, you’re welcome here.​
-
Service of Word & Sacrament: Sundays at 10:30 AM.
-
Unplugged Worship: Every 3rd Sunday at 10:30 AM
-
Brunch-Church: Sundays, once a Quarter at 10:30 AM
-
Free Prayer: Wednesdays 1:00 - 2:00 PM
-
Bible Study: Sundays at 9:30 AM
History & Values
Since its founding in 1890, Christ Lutheran Church of Harrisburg has been dedicated to serving the community and upholding the values of faith, compassion, and justice. Our tagline, “God’s Beacon on the Hill Since 1890,” symbolizes our commitment to healing and uplifting the community of Allison Hill. We are proud of our rich history and continue to build on our legacy with a focus on inclusive and meaningful service.
Our Pastor
Rev. Matthew Best
Rev. Matthew Best serves as the pastor of Christ Lutheran Church Harrisburg and as the Executive Director of Christ Lutheran Health Ministries. With a background in political science and non-profit work, Rev. Best brings a wealth of experience in community engagement and ministry. He holds a Master of Divinity from the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Gettysburg and was ordained in 2017. Passionate about healing and community service, he is dedicated to guiding the church in offering holistic support to all who seek God’s love. He resides in Carlisle with his family.
