The Peru Gazette

Peru Gazette file photo

Peru Gazette file photo

One of the area’s local luminaries will be honored at a special service on Sunday, April 19, 2026, at Harkness United Methodist Church.

This year’s annual recognition of Dr. Georgia Harkness will celebrate not only her birthday, but also the dedication of an official marker naming the church a Methodist Historic Site. The worship service begins at a special time of 10am and will conclude with the marker dedication.

A reception with cake and ice cream will follow at approximately 11am in the adjacent Church Hall. The public is warmly invited to attend. The church is located at 780 Hallock Hill Road, Peru.

Methodist Historic Sites are locations tied to significant events, developments, or individuals in the history of the United Methodist Church. Harkness United Methodist Church became the newest of 16 Historic Sites in New York State after receiving conference approval in 2025. As a designated Historic Site, the church offers tours by appointment.

Dr. Georgia E. Harkness (1891–1974), born in Harkness New York, became a leading figure in Methodism. She was a scholar, activist, clergy member, and prolific author of books and poetry. Her writing helped inspire Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. She also helped pave the way for women’s ordination in the Methodist Church and became the first female professor of theology at a U.S. seminary. Her legacy continues today through several initiatives, including scholarships for women over age 35 who are studying to become Methodist clergy.

Using proceeds from last fall’s Chicken and Biscuit Dinner as seed money, Harkness United Methodist Church has launched a challenge to raise $5,000 to fully fund one scholarship in Dr. Harkness’s honor. The goal is to reach the target by May 17, the date of the first “Michigans for Mission” fundraiser of the year for the Harkness Church. During her career as a theologian, professor and writer, Dr. Harkness was a strong supporter and proponent of conferring full clergy rights for women in the Methodist Church. This effort also marks the 70th anniversary of achievement of that goal. 

Donations may be made by check payable to Harkness United Methodist Church. Please include “Georgia Harkness Scholarship” on the memo line. Contributions may be mailed to: Harkness United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 720, Peru, NY 12972.