Prior to 1810, the Reformed people in the Millersburg Community worshipped mostly at Host, Tulpehocken, Strausstown (Blue Mountain Church) and the Klopps Churches. In 1810 a congregation of 20 was organized by Rev. William Hensel, Jr., D.D.
The site for the church was donated by Gottfried and Eva Rehrer, and was comprised of 2 acres and is located on a triangular plot of ground in the forks of the roadway just beyond the banks of the Little Swatara Creek, south of the village of Millersburg (now Bethel). Its placement is one of the prettiest to be found anywhere. The stones which are a type of limestone, were quarried from the Blue Mountains and on the farm of the original members. Much of the work was done by members of the congregation and to this day, the walls, with additions, are still standing.
The name chosen for this church by the original membership is a common name for Christian Churches and is very significant. It is a Bible name and is found in Genesis 14:18, Psalms 76:2 and Hebrews 7:1. Josephus, a Jewish historian and Jewish commentator identified the place Salem of which Melchizedek was King, with Jerusalem, and believed Salem to be the ancient name of that city. This was also the opinion of early Christians. The world Shalim (Salem) has different shades of meaning such as "rest", "ease", "security", "unity", "concord", and "peace". The name is found on a tablet stone on the northern wall of the Church. For 200 years, members and friends of the congregation have endeavored to honor this name and live up to its significance.
