Mennonite Weekly Review

STRASBURG, Pa. — After the first European immigrants arrived in Lancaster County 300 years ago, First Nations people helped the Swiss-German settlers plant crops, hunt and survive the winter of 1710.

Four groups — a cross-section of the Ephrata Cloister Chorus, the VIVE worship team, the Vietnamese Alliance Church choir and the Old Order River Brethren ensemble — combine for “Be Still, My Soul,” at the Festival of Roots and Music Jan. 31 at Strasburg Mennonite Church. — Photo by Jeremy Hess

Lancaster Roots 300, held by the Lancaster Mennonite Historical Society and 1719 Hans Herr House and Museum, commemorates the success of the European settlers, the vital aid of the First Nations people and the diverse people groups that have come to Lancaster County since.

“We planned tours about early settlements and Native American life, but we asked, ‘Should we do things for everyone in the county to come to?’ ” said Merle Good, chair of the Lancaster Roots 300 Steering Committee. “We decided to make it yearlong and add larger events.”

The Festival of Roots and Music, coordinated by Good, launched the celebration at Strasburg Mennonite Church Jan. 31. The service emphasized diversity as much as music.

“The way we see it, everyone living here today is part of the story that began in 1710,” said Beth Graybill, historical society executive director. “Mennonites were the first European settlers, but no matter when you enter the story, you are part of the conversation now.”

A musical prelude introduced the two-hour service narrated by Kim Lemon, WGAL-TV news anchor, and Scott Fischer, executive director of the Lancaster County Council of Churches. Presentations from seven people groups complemented performances by local musicians and choirs.

“One woman said this is like heaven, referring to the music and diversity,” Good said. “Another person said everyone in Lancaster County should be here and experience this.”

Guests began arriving two hours before the prelude, and by the time the service began, more than 1,000 people filled the sanctuary, foyer and basement, though the latter areas had audio equipment only. Hundreds more were turned away.

The response was overwhelming, especially considering the festival was not in the initial celebratory plans. A spring banquet had been planned as the kickoff event, but in September, planners broadened their vision.

“Looking over the events, many are lectures, tours and banquets, and I thought we ought to have a music event,” Good said. “Food and music are natural to bring people together.”