Covington History
Covington United Presbyterian Church officially became organized in 1828
after a dispute in 1825 over how communion should be observed. This
dispute resulted in 4 Elders and 10 other families leaving the First
Presbyterian Church of York. These people met in various members’ barns
and homes until the church was built in 1833. The church was originally
known as the Associate Congregation of York and Covington. Although,
in the years since, the church building was moved, a basement was dug,
several additions have been built and continuous modern updates are
made, members and visitors today still gather, worship, and pray in the
same sanctuary built by these founding families.
Covington has been blessed with strong pastoral leadership over the
years. In its 179 year history, we have had just 12 called pastors, two
of whom combined for 83 years of ministry.
Sunday school classes have been held at Covington since at least 1870,
possibly before, and Vacation Bible School has been part of our summer
ministry since around 1932.
Instrumental music was introduced as part of the worship service in
1898 which caused quite a stir among the congregation at the time.
However, since then, music has been an integral part of our worship life.
We currentlyhave a singing choir, a hand bell choir, and many talented
individuals who enhance our worship service each Sunday.
Even though rural and small, Covington has long been involved with mission
support. In addition to several local missions, Covington has had personal
connections with and supported people and projects in countries such as
Egypt, Uzbekistan, Chili, Ecuador, and South Africa.
The history of Covington is 179 years long and, at times, quite interesting.
A much more in depth look at Covingtons's past, its ministers, music,
missions, memberss' memories, and more can be made by purchasing
"Covington Chronicles, A History of Covington United Presbyterian Church."
For more information on this publication, please contact us or attend any
of our Sunday Services or functions.