To honor the legacy of Henry and Ella Dodge Appenzeller, First United Methodist Church (UMC), 29 E. Walnut St., Lancaster, will host a weekend of music, lectures, and reflection on Saturday and Sunday, April 26 and 27. This year marks the 140th anniversary of the Appenzellers' arrival in Korea, a pivotal moment in the history of Protestant Christianity in the region. The weekend's activities will celebrate the historical ties between Lancaster and Korea, highlighting the enduring connection between the two communities through the universal language of music and shared faith.

Henry Appenzeller, a native of Souderton, was a member and assistant pastor at First UMC before being commissioned as a missionary to Korea in 1884. He and his wife, Ella, arrived in Korea on Easter Sunday in 1885. Henry played a foundational role in introducing Protestant Christianity to Korea, establishing a Methodist church in Seoul; founding Paichai Hakdang, now Pai Chai University; and contributing to the translation of the New Testament to Korean. His efforts fostered education and cultural exchange between Korea and the U.S.

The celebratory weekend will begin with lunch on April 26 at 12:15 p.m., followed by a lecture - "What's So Special About Appenzeller?" - presented by Kale Yu, professor of religion and philosophy at High Point University, N.C.

On April 27 at 8:15 and 10:45 a.m., a choir and full orchestra will present the cantata "All Is Yours" by composer James Ra, who composed the piece to honor the Appenzellers and other missionaries to Korea. At 9:30 a.m., Yu will present a second lecture, "Women's Advantage: Methodist Women Missionaries and Korean Bible Women."

Those unable to attend on April 27 are invited to an open rehearsal of "All Is Yours" on April 26 at 10 a.m.

Parking is available in a lot behind the church. Nursery and child care are provided at all Sunday services. For more details, visit http://www.engagegodfirst.org/events/appenzeller-weekend or call 717-394-7231.