Hagerstown Area Religious Council

We can do more together.

The Hagerstown Area Religious Council (HARC) is a coalition of faith community partners in Washington County, Maryland. Formerly Washington County Council of Churches, HARC has been active in the community since 1946 and has been recognized as a 501c3 non-profit organization since 2001. While HARC’s partner congregations can differ greatly on theology, all agree on the strength of working together to build a better community, help those in need, and support one another.

What we do

HARC’s mission is to embody mercy, justice and love as diverse faith partners in Washington County. We seek to fulfill this vital mission in the following ways.

Justice Ministry:  HARC organizes the Washington County faith community for the purpose of influence, collaboration, and action around issues of systematic injustice that many of our neighbors experience.

Mercy Ministry:  HARC connects the Washington County faith community to work together, engaging in hands-on ministry to serve our neighbors in need. This work includes serving hungry children through Micah’s Backpack, and maintaining a list and collaboration of Washington County food pantries, soup kitchens and clothing resources.

Information and Resources: Find information, resources and events listings on our website. Also sign up for HARC’s weekly News Flash for a rich assortment of news, events, and information geared specifically to the faith community. HARC also connects congregations and organizations with similar passions and interests to have a greater impact in their work.

Fellowship and Support:  HARC fosters activities that connect and support clergy. We also encourage dialogue and understanding among different faith traditions.

Member Meetings:  HARC member meetings are held the second Tuesday of each month (except July and August) at 12:30 pm. Location rotates among houses of faith. Meetings include lunch, fellowship, and a program of interest to members. Clergy and lay representatives of any congregation or faith-based organization are invited to attend. Only members are eligible to vote on business.

Public Witness:  HARC organizes and sponsors community events such as a Good Friday Cross Walk, Interfaith Community Thanksgiving Service, the Hagerstown Historic Houses of Worship Tour, and Congregation B’Nai Abraham’s Holocaust Memorial Service.