For three minutes on May 3, Ebenezer United Church of Christ, New Tripoli, rang its bells in appreciation of front line workers, including health care providers, first responders, grocery store employees and others now deemed essential in the era of COVID-19.

Local residents are used to hearing the church chimes to mark each hour and especially each day at 6 p.m., but this was a special commemoration.

“Bell Across Pennsylvania Day” was organized by the Pennsylvania State Mayors’ Association.

Cities and towns across the state were encouraged to participate as a public thank you and as a way to “show our resolve that Pennsylvanians will prevail over COVID-19 and thrive again.”

Bells have special meaning for Pennsylvania, where the Liberty Bell continues to be an enduring symbol of unity and freedom.

Since the American Revolution, bells have been used to express communal gratitude, camaraderie and resolve.