History

1894 

The United Presbyterian Church of North America is built where we currently worship.  Its congregation is almost exclusively Scottish and Scots-Irish and comprised of many farmers and workers.

1898 

The Presbyterian Church in the USA, with its English roots, is built on the town green and finds many merchants and owners in its pews.

1969 

Differences between the two congregations obscure over the decades, adn when the two national denominations merge, so do the congregations in Mars.  Members from both churches join together as they enter the Crowe Ave. building as seen in the image.  Now they are truly a united church, appropriate to their new name, Mars United Presbyterian Church (or affectionately called MUP).

1970 

Rev. Robert B. McCrumb II (or "RB") is called to serve as the pastor of MUP.
He brings with him many programs that are still a part of the church today, especially the fellowship stemming out of the church kitchen.

1974 

Major renovations are made to the present sanctuary including the woodwork, pulpit and pipe organ.

1986 

The Eshbaugh house is purchased to use as the church office.

1998 

The rear addition is made to the church building, providing greatly needed space for Sunday School classrooms.

2005 

Rev. McCrumb retires as pastor of MUP and is appointed Pastor Emeritus in recognition of his long and faithful leadership in the church.

2008 

Sean Brubaker is hired as full-time Director of Youth to serve the growing needs of MUP's younger congregation.

Nathan Esser is called, ordained and installed as MUP's new pastor.

2009 

A renovation project enlarges the Tarry 'n Talk area, creates a church library and updates the sanctuary.

2012

The downstairs fellowship hall & kitchen undergo a renovation. 

2014

Justin Thomson is hired as MUP's new Youth & Children's Ministries Director.

MUP celebrates 120 years of ministry!  A celebration dinner is held, the sanctuary lights are left on as a reminder of the work the church does in the community.  Various other activities are planned during the year to celebrate the anniversary. 

 The pipe organ undergoes a restoration project.
 
Today 

 

MUP continues to grow and serve the community of Mars, looking forward to what the future holds!