Congregation from 1850 on through the tumultuous years of the Civil War. During Rev. Buehl’s time with the congregation, the congregation of St. John and Salem Reformed peacefully separated. It was also during this time that a church constitution was written by St. John.In 1854 the congregation moved again when it built a new structure west of the present building. The church measured 36x26 feet and had seating for 23 people. After completion of the church a steeple was added and a church bell was donated by Mrs. Anna Lang Simmons.
Mrs. Simmons was given the honor of ringing the bell when it called worshippers for the first time. Mrs. Simmon’s donation was the first of a long line of gifts stretching through our history. The list includes everything from appliances for the kitchen, vestments, hymnals, pictures, crosses, pianos, paraments, down to the elevator which has enabled all our congregation to attend worship. The members of St. John, then and now, have always acted when a need arises.
In 1864 the mission in Massillon which Rev. Buehl had developed called him to be their pastor. He left St. John and was succeeded by Rev. Gotsh. In 1871 St. John united with several parishes to form one parish. Those congregations were St. Jacob Mudbrook, Zion in New Berlin and Emmanuel in Hartville. This parish was served by Rev. D. M. Martins for 3 years. The parish was served by several pastors until 1888 when Rev. Schillinger
became Pastor. It was during this time 1888-1900 that the four part parish was dissolved. In 1895 St. John and St. Jacob joined as one parish. This union lasted until 1950 when St. Jacob dissolved the joint parish.
In 1912 the congregation purchased the present building. The bell and some furniture from the old church was moved into the new building.
I920 saw the beginning of the lengthiest pastorate. The Rev. Lawrence Fudge served the congregation from 1920 until 1950. Many changes were made to the building during this time. Art glass windows, the basement, choir loft and new ceiling are just some of those enhancements. In July 1941 a new pipe organ was dedicated.
From 1951-1968 the parish was served by Rev. Willman and Rev. Elosser. During this time the building was remodeled again. The newly remodeled building was re-dedicated in April 1960.