About Luthercare: Founded in 1949, Luthercare, a social ministry organization affiliated with the Lower Susquehanna Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America and a member of Lutheran Services in America, is a leading provider of independent, personal care and skilled care residences in Lancaster and Lebanon counties. Luthercare operates Luther Acres, a Continuing Care Retirement Community in Lititz, Pa.; Spang Crest, a rehabilitation center, skilled nursing and memory support personal care community in Lebanon, Pa.; and St. John’s Herr Estate, an independent living and personal care community in Columbia, Pa. Additionally, Luthercare operates PA Keystone Stars-accredited childcare and early learning centers in Reamstown and Annville. Luthercare, a pioneer in Childcare Programs, also offers a Mentoring Program that aids family child care home providers in Lebanon and Lancaster counties.
Luthercare Grows in the 1970s with Spang Crest
In the second half of the 1970s, Luthercare had a lot to celebrate in Lebanon with the groundbreaking, dedication, and expansion of Spang Crest.
On September 15, 1975, the ground was broken for the construction of a new facility capable of housing up to 105 residents that providing guests with ample amenities and supportive services. Residents of the original Spang Crest house were excited for the growth, including Mary “Becky” Beck who when asked how she was feeling about the new building replied, “wonderful, just wonderful”. Excavation for the new Spang Crest commenced in December 1975, with construction wrapping up in 1976, culminating in the formal dedication in 1977.
Spang Crest would continue to grow into the late seventies and early eighties with the addition of a chapel, offices, activities rooms, and a solarium. Activities and volunteer groups would also flourish with the creation of the Friends of Spang Crest in 1979, which would grow to include 628 members by 1980. This period also saw the establishment of various activities including weekly ceramic and craft classes, as well as a Readers Digest discussion group.