PASTORS OF FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH
1956 - 1959
1959 - 1960 1960 - 1970 1961 – 1979 1970 – 1974 1971 – 1973 1973 – 1974 1974 – 3 months 1974 – 3 months 1975 – 1976 1974 – 1982 1976 – 1979 1981 – 1988 1984 – 1990 1991 – 6 months 1989 – 1996 1991 - 1997 1997 – 1998 1998 – 2017 2012 – 2013 2018 - 01/2019 2019 - 6 months 2019 - 08/31/2020 12/15/2020 - 5/31/2023 9/01/2023 - 5/31/2024 6/1/2024 - Current |
Rev. Rueben Wangberg
Rev. M. Kaaterud, (Interim) Rev. Oscar Engebretson Rev. O. L. Leverson Rev. E. W. Haygeman Ron Praseck (Intern) John Martinson (Intern) Rev. Gerald Giving (Interim) John Sandager (Intern) Thomas Olson (Intern) Rev. Edwin Astrup Rev. James Thacker Rev. Donald Lang Rev. Allen Bjorklund Rev. Charles Beronius (Interim) Rev. Norman Freund Rev. Carol L. Olson Rev. Larry Lystig (Interim) Rev. Kirk E. Meseck Rev. Gwen Powell (Intern) Rev. Deb Nissen (Interim) Rev. Paul Peterson Vicar Ann Bjorklund Pastor Ron Nichols Bishop Craig Anderson Pastor Roy Noel |
50 YEARS OF FAITH (1964-2014)
By Robert Glomstad
Faith Lutheran Church has a long history if you go back to the 1800s. Various churches were formed at that time and several eventually lead to Faith Lutheran Church. We are now celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the present church building.
The Faith Lutheran Congregation of today actually began to move toward a consolidation into one congregation in 1953. At that time, Madison Lutheran Church, also, known as the ‘white church’ was in the block east of the public school where the skating rink and playground are located today. First Lutheran Church, also, called the ‘brick church’ is the home of the Prairie Arts Center today. These two churches voted to merge on May 12, 1956. Faith Lutheran Church congregation was formed at that time. Until the dedication of the Faith building in 1964, both church buildings were used for worship and other church activities.
The first pastor to serve the Faith Congregation was Pastor Rueben A Wangberg who served from 1956 to 1959. He was followed by Pastor Oscar Engebretson in 1960. Pastor M. Kaatrud was the Interim Pastor between Pastor Wangberg and Pastor Engebretson in 1960. Also, in 1961, Pastor R. O. Leverson was installed to serve as Assistant Pastor.
At the first annual meeting in 1957, it was decided to engage an architect to assist with the building needs of the congregation.
In April 1958, the congregation formally decided to build a structure to include a church and an education unit.
In June 1963, contracts to build a new church were awarded. The overall cost, including land, structure, black topping, etc. was estimated about $550, 000.00.
Groundbreaking ceremonies were held July 7, 1963 and Hans Halvorson, the oldest living member of the congregation, turned over the first shovel of sod.
At a council meeting in 1964, it was decided to move the organ from the brick church to Faith and new pews were ordered.
The cornerstone was laid in July 1964. The official dedication of the Faith Church Building occurred on October 4, 1964. Dr Alvin Rogness, who at that time was President of Lutheran Theological Seminary in St, Paul, Minnesota gave the sermon. It was reported that 1,100 people attended the Festival.
The Church has a seating capacity of 550 on the main floor, with an additional 60 seats in the balcony.
The cross above the altar is 17 feet long and 10 feet wide. It’s constructed of oak with seven mosaic panels, symbolizing the life and works of Christ. The altar rail is, also, constructed of oak and about 40 people can commune at one time. The stone floor around the altar is Travertine stone and the altar is made of Italian marble. Some of the stained-glass windows were imported from Germany.
The height of the Church is 41 feet, with the steeple rising from the belfry to reach an overall height of 87 feet. The three crosses on the front of the church are made of Bedford stone. The bell in Faith Church was installed with an automatic bell ringer. This bell was from the former Madison Lutheran Church.
The date set for Annual Meetings was the third Tuesday in January.
Pastor Engebretson resigned in 1970 and Pastor E. W. Haygeman was installed that year.
In 1972, at the Annual Meeting, the congregation voted to accept a new Constitution, made up of 24 board members, and women were encouraged to participate in the church council.
Pastor Haygeman served until 1974. Pastor Giving served as Interim Pastor until Pastor Ed Astrup accepted a call to serve at Faith in 1974.
In 1976, Pastor James Thacker was installed to serve as an Associate Pastor of Youth and Education. He became the third ordained member of the staff.
May 9, 1977, a committee was formed to do a study and assessment of the organ. The present organ was installed at the former First Lutheran Church in 1926. In August 1977, a decision was made by the congregation to have a new organ built. Dedication of the new Van Dalen Pipe Organ was held September 28, 1980.
1979 was a monumental year at Faith Lutheran as they celebrated the 100th anniversary of the organization of First Lutheran Church in 1879. There were many events during the Centennial Year of 1979. The first was the Festival of Banners. The banners were made by a committee of church women. Fourteen banners were dedicated to aide and enrich the worship life of the community.
Pastor James Thacker resigned in December of 1979 and Pastor Donald Lang was installed in the fall of 1980.
Faith celebrated 25 years of Radio Ministry on December 13, 1981. Broadcasts at that time were over KDIO Radio, Ortonville, Minnesota.
In 1982, Faith Lutheran Church founded The Endowment Committee. Five board members were elected at that time to manage and administrate the Fund. Pastor Ed Astrup resigned in 1982 after 12 years of ministry at Faith.
Pastor Al Bjorklund was called in 1983.
Pastor Norm Freund accepted a call at Faith in 1989.
In the church year 1990, the Faith Congregation adopted a new constitution to govern the church. It consisted of 80 individuals to serve on 10 boards and as officers of the congregation.
Pastor Don Lang resigned in 1988 and Pastor Al Bjorklund in 1990.
In 1991, Pastor Carol Olson accepted a call at Faith and Pastor Norm Freund continued to serve as visitation Pastor until 1996. Pastor Carol left in 1997 and, after Interim Pastor Larry Lystig served for six months, Pastor Kirk Meseck accepted a call at Faith.
Pastor Kirk Meseck has continued to serve our congregation for 16 years; the longest a Pastor has served since Faith Lutheran Church was formed. And, under his guidance, things are progressing very well.
In the last twenty years, many improvements have occurred.
To list a few:
Kitchen remodeling, built-in storage in primary room-used by W-ELCA, Prayer Room, new round tables in the Fellowship Hall, new sound system, air conditioning, handicap bathroom, major roof improvements, a worship projection system was installed. And, in 2008, a new parsonage was built.
Faith Lutheran Church has a long history if you go back to the 1800s. Various churches were formed at that time and several eventually lead to Faith Lutheran Church. We are now celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the present church building.
The Faith Lutheran Congregation of today actually began to move toward a consolidation into one congregation in 1953. At that time, Madison Lutheran Church, also, known as the ‘white church’ was in the block east of the public school where the skating rink and playground are located today. First Lutheran Church, also, called the ‘brick church’ is the home of the Prairie Arts Center today. These two churches voted to merge on May 12, 1956. Faith Lutheran Church congregation was formed at that time. Until the dedication of the Faith building in 1964, both church buildings were used for worship and other church activities.
The first pastor to serve the Faith Congregation was Pastor Rueben A Wangberg who served from 1956 to 1959. He was followed by Pastor Oscar Engebretson in 1960. Pastor M. Kaatrud was the Interim Pastor between Pastor Wangberg and Pastor Engebretson in 1960. Also, in 1961, Pastor R. O. Leverson was installed to serve as Assistant Pastor.
At the first annual meeting in 1957, it was decided to engage an architect to assist with the building needs of the congregation.
In April 1958, the congregation formally decided to build a structure to include a church and an education unit.
In June 1963, contracts to build a new church were awarded. The overall cost, including land, structure, black topping, etc. was estimated about $550, 000.00.
Groundbreaking ceremonies were held July 7, 1963 and Hans Halvorson, the oldest living member of the congregation, turned over the first shovel of sod.
At a council meeting in 1964, it was decided to move the organ from the brick church to Faith and new pews were ordered.
The cornerstone was laid in July 1964. The official dedication of the Faith Church Building occurred on October 4, 1964. Dr Alvin Rogness, who at that time was President of Lutheran Theological Seminary in St, Paul, Minnesota gave the sermon. It was reported that 1,100 people attended the Festival.
The Church has a seating capacity of 550 on the main floor, with an additional 60 seats in the balcony.
The cross above the altar is 17 feet long and 10 feet wide. It’s constructed of oak with seven mosaic panels, symbolizing the life and works of Christ. The altar rail is, also, constructed of oak and about 40 people can commune at one time. The stone floor around the altar is Travertine stone and the altar is made of Italian marble. Some of the stained-glass windows were imported from Germany.
The height of the Church is 41 feet, with the steeple rising from the belfry to reach an overall height of 87 feet. The three crosses on the front of the church are made of Bedford stone. The bell in Faith Church was installed with an automatic bell ringer. This bell was from the former Madison Lutheran Church.
The date set for Annual Meetings was the third Tuesday in January.
Pastor Engebretson resigned in 1970 and Pastor E. W. Haygeman was installed that year.
In 1972, at the Annual Meeting, the congregation voted to accept a new Constitution, made up of 24 board members, and women were encouraged to participate in the church council.
Pastor Haygeman served until 1974. Pastor Giving served as Interim Pastor until Pastor Ed Astrup accepted a call to serve at Faith in 1974.
In 1976, Pastor James Thacker was installed to serve as an Associate Pastor of Youth and Education. He became the third ordained member of the staff.
May 9, 1977, a committee was formed to do a study and assessment of the organ. The present organ was installed at the former First Lutheran Church in 1926. In August 1977, a decision was made by the congregation to have a new organ built. Dedication of the new Van Dalen Pipe Organ was held September 28, 1980.
1979 was a monumental year at Faith Lutheran as they celebrated the 100th anniversary of the organization of First Lutheran Church in 1879. There were many events during the Centennial Year of 1979. The first was the Festival of Banners. The banners were made by a committee of church women. Fourteen banners were dedicated to aide and enrich the worship life of the community.
Pastor James Thacker resigned in December of 1979 and Pastor Donald Lang was installed in the fall of 1980.
Faith celebrated 25 years of Radio Ministry on December 13, 1981. Broadcasts at that time were over KDIO Radio, Ortonville, Minnesota.
In 1982, Faith Lutheran Church founded The Endowment Committee. Five board members were elected at that time to manage and administrate the Fund. Pastor Ed Astrup resigned in 1982 after 12 years of ministry at Faith.
Pastor Al Bjorklund was called in 1983.
Pastor Norm Freund accepted a call at Faith in 1989.
In the church year 1990, the Faith Congregation adopted a new constitution to govern the church. It consisted of 80 individuals to serve on 10 boards and as officers of the congregation.
Pastor Don Lang resigned in 1988 and Pastor Al Bjorklund in 1990.
In 1991, Pastor Carol Olson accepted a call at Faith and Pastor Norm Freund continued to serve as visitation Pastor until 1996. Pastor Carol left in 1997 and, after Interim Pastor Larry Lystig served for six months, Pastor Kirk Meseck accepted a call at Faith.
Pastor Kirk Meseck has continued to serve our congregation for 16 years; the longest a Pastor has served since Faith Lutheran Church was formed. And, under his guidance, things are progressing very well.
In the last twenty years, many improvements have occurred.
To list a few:
Kitchen remodeling, built-in storage in primary room-used by W-ELCA, Prayer Room, new round tables in the Fellowship Hall, new sound system, air conditioning, handicap bathroom, major roof improvements, a worship projection system was installed. And, in 2008, a new parsonage was built.
FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH IN 2014
- Pastor: Pastor Kirk Meseck
- Education & Music Director: Linda Anderson
- Office Secretary: Deb Meseck
- Custodial Staff: John & Sandy Buer
- Little Blessings Pre-school Instructor: Terra Swenson
- There are 897 Baptized Members, 762 Confirmed Members.
- There are 53 Sunday Worship Services and 12 Special Worship Services.
- For the past ten years, Worship Services have, also, been held at Park Avenue Apartments and Hilltop Apartments.
CHILDREN’S RELIGIOUS EDUCATION
Sunday School took on a different look in the fall of 2012. The same topic (such as “Noah and the Ark”) is taught for 4 different weeks—with students rotating between workshops such as Art, Bible Skills, Cooking, Creative Drama and Science. Each workshop has a different focus but the main theme stays the same.
Education classes have offered to students age 3 through grade 6. Confirmation students have volunteered as helpers in the various classes. Each Sunday begins with an Opening for all the students where the day’s lesson theme is emphasized.
Kid’s Club (grades 2-3-4) is held the last Tuesday of each month September-May. A Bible lesson is shared followed by games and activities, which tie in with the lesson.
Vacation Bible School is offered in either June or August for students through Grade 5. Day Camp (where counselors come to Faith from Green Lake Lutheran Ministries) has been held every 2 or 3 years, rotating with Vacation Bible School.
Education classes have offered to students age 3 through grade 6. Confirmation students have volunteered as helpers in the various classes. Each Sunday begins with an Opening for all the students where the day’s lesson theme is emphasized.
Kid’s Club (grades 2-3-4) is held the last Tuesday of each month September-May. A Bible lesson is shared followed by games and activities, which tie in with the lesson.
Vacation Bible School is offered in either June or August for students through Grade 5. Day Camp (where counselors come to Faith from Green Lake Lutheran Ministries) has been held every 2 or 3 years, rotating with Vacation Bible School.
CHOIRS
Two handbell choirs provide special music for worship services from September-May. Faith Ringers consists of 11 adults who rehearse at 6 p.m. on Wednesdays. Joyful Noise Ringers (gr. 2-6) rehearse after school one day per week. Three octaves of handbells (plus 7 higher bells) are rung. Chimes were added to the choir in the past years and often are played along with the handbells.
Senior Choir rehearses on Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. September-May. This choir provides special music on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of those months, plus special worship services. The current choir director is Gary Boraas.
Joyful Noise Singers (grades 2-6) rehearses one afternoon after school per week, followed by their handbell rehearsal.
Senior Choir rehearses on Wednesday evenings at 7 p.m. September-May. This choir provides special music on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of those months, plus special worship services. The current choir director is Gary Boraas.
Joyful Noise Singers (grades 2-6) rehearses one afternoon after school per week, followed by their handbell rehearsal.
SUNDAY SCHOOL
By Alyce Nelson and Linda Anderson
At the formation of Faith Lutheran in 1956 until the present building was constructed, Sunday school was held in various places. Kindergarten and primary classes were held in the ‘white church’. The fourth through sixth grade and some junior high classes were held in the basement, kitchen, balcony and sacristy of the ‘brick church’. The junior high and senior high classes were held in the basements of both parsonages and, also, in the basements of the hospital and the nursing home. Needless to say, there was a huge enrollment at that time. There were well over 200 students in the Sunday school.
When the present church building was opened in 1964, all the education rooms were used for Sunday school. The Library was divided into two classrooms. The present Education and Music office, the Prayer Room and the supply room were all used for classes. Two classes were held in the present Media Room. The Primary Department met in the Primary Room with classes on the east wall and the ends of the west wall. Opening Exercise was held in the open area in the center.
In the beginning, there were three superintendents of Sunday school: Primary Dept., fourth through sixth grade and Junior High.
In the early years, there was, also, Tuesday School. Students were released from the public school on Tuesday. Classes were taught by Intern Pastors and Youth Pastors. Eventually, the Tuesday school classes and high school Sunday school classes were closed.
In 1990, an Education/Music Director was hired. This position replaced the Sunday School superintendent.
A rotation curriculum was implemented in the fall of 2013 where workshops are held for Kindergarten-Grade 6 students. For four weeks, the students attend different workshops that revolve around the same Bible story but with a different focus. We have still continued with the Sunday School program, however, it is now given during a Sunday morning worship service.
The Sunday School room that housed our Kindergarten Sunday School students is now the area where our Little Blessings Preschool meets. The school is licensed for 10 students and is open to students who turn 4 by September 1 that school year. Registration is opened to Faith Lutheran in February; if any openings remain, registration is then open to the community
.
Vacation Bible School has been offered in several different ways throughout the past years—mornings or evenings only during the week and in 2014 a Sunday/Monday evening Bible School was held. Green Lake Lutheran Ministries has, also, alternated the summers with Vacation Bible School where camp counselors come to Faith and work with the students. This ‘day camp’ gives students the opportunity to have a glimpse of what attending Bible Camp would be like. Faith’s Endowment Fund, Wroolie Fund, and W-ELCA have been very generous in supporting members who attend camp.
Faith’s ‘League’ has been replaced by Jesus Trips for confirmation students and a Kids Club for elementary students
At the formation of Faith Lutheran in 1956 until the present building was constructed, Sunday school was held in various places. Kindergarten and primary classes were held in the ‘white church’. The fourth through sixth grade and some junior high classes were held in the basement, kitchen, balcony and sacristy of the ‘brick church’. The junior high and senior high classes were held in the basements of both parsonages and, also, in the basements of the hospital and the nursing home. Needless to say, there was a huge enrollment at that time. There were well over 200 students in the Sunday school.
When the present church building was opened in 1964, all the education rooms were used for Sunday school. The Library was divided into two classrooms. The present Education and Music office, the Prayer Room and the supply room were all used for classes. Two classes were held in the present Media Room. The Primary Department met in the Primary Room with classes on the east wall and the ends of the west wall. Opening Exercise was held in the open area in the center.
In the beginning, there were three superintendents of Sunday school: Primary Dept., fourth through sixth grade and Junior High.
In the early years, there was, also, Tuesday School. Students were released from the public school on Tuesday. Classes were taught by Intern Pastors and Youth Pastors. Eventually, the Tuesday school classes and high school Sunday school classes were closed.
In 1990, an Education/Music Director was hired. This position replaced the Sunday School superintendent.
A rotation curriculum was implemented in the fall of 2013 where workshops are held for Kindergarten-Grade 6 students. For four weeks, the students attend different workshops that revolve around the same Bible story but with a different focus. We have still continued with the Sunday School program, however, it is now given during a Sunday morning worship service.
The Sunday School room that housed our Kindergarten Sunday School students is now the area where our Little Blessings Preschool meets. The school is licensed for 10 students and is open to students who turn 4 by September 1 that school year. Registration is opened to Faith Lutheran in February; if any openings remain, registration is then open to the community
.
Vacation Bible School has been offered in several different ways throughout the past years—mornings or evenings only during the week and in 2014 a Sunday/Monday evening Bible School was held. Green Lake Lutheran Ministries has, also, alternated the summers with Vacation Bible School where camp counselors come to Faith and work with the students. This ‘day camp’ gives students the opportunity to have a glimpse of what attending Bible Camp would be like. Faith’s Endowment Fund, Wroolie Fund, and W-ELCA have been very generous in supporting members who attend camp.
Faith’s ‘League’ has been replaced by Jesus Trips for confirmation students and a Kids Club for elementary students
FAITH LUTHERAN CEMETARY
By Carlyle Larsen
Located on the east end of 8th street, it is around 2 acres in size and is south of the so called ‘city cemetery’ or Hayden cemetery and St. Michaels Cemetery, all in the same complex.
While we find two burials here in 1882, the land did not become a cemetery, officially, until 1885 when it was purchased from Ole Lindseth for $60.00. It initially served St. Peter’s Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Church, organized in 1885, and then later renamed Madison Lutheran Church. By 1900, there were 44 recorded burials in this cemetery, and now, 1,100, including 88 in the past ten years alone. A plat of this cemetery, including: name, block, and lot numbers, etc., was developed many years ago, aiding immensely in the development of a directory in 2004. Drainage tile were installed in the east part of the cemetery in 1984, a large granite identification monument at the entrance in 2000, black top on the roadway in 2010 and a granite columbarium for cremains in 2013. The later has 48 niches (compartments) that will accommodate 2 urns each. It was erected to conserve ground space for traditional burials, which area is down to about 10% of the cemetery now.
Additional cemeteries Faith Lutheran is responsible for maintenance and upkeep are: Ness Cemetery, Sjolie/Solor Cemetery and Haydenville/Loken Cemetery.
Located on the east end of 8th street, it is around 2 acres in size and is south of the so called ‘city cemetery’ or Hayden cemetery and St. Michaels Cemetery, all in the same complex.
While we find two burials here in 1882, the land did not become a cemetery, officially, until 1885 when it was purchased from Ole Lindseth for $60.00. It initially served St. Peter’s Norwegian Evangelical Lutheran Church, organized in 1885, and then later renamed Madison Lutheran Church. By 1900, there were 44 recorded burials in this cemetery, and now, 1,100, including 88 in the past ten years alone. A plat of this cemetery, including: name, block, and lot numbers, etc., was developed many years ago, aiding immensely in the development of a directory in 2004. Drainage tile were installed in the east part of the cemetery in 1984, a large granite identification monument at the entrance in 2000, black top on the roadway in 2010 and a granite columbarium for cremains in 2013. The later has 48 niches (compartments) that will accommodate 2 urns each. It was erected to conserve ground space for traditional burials, which area is down to about 10% of the cemetery now.
Additional cemeteries Faith Lutheran is responsible for maintenance and upkeep are: Ness Cemetery, Sjolie/Solor Cemetery and Haydenville/Loken Cemetery.
FAITH BUILDERS
By Deb Meyer and Kate Ouverson
Faith Builders adult mission group began in 2008 and took their first trip to Slidell, Louisiana to help with the recovery from Hurricane Katrina. Pastor Kirk Meseck and the youth had been taking ‘Jesus Trips’ each year and it sparked an interest in the adults of our congregation. Since that first trip, groups of varying sizes have made 5 trips to Slidell and one to Bay St. Louis, Mississippi to help with the ongoing recovery from Katrina. They have worked with Habitat for Humanity and America Repairs on Wheels. During the summers of 2012 and 2013, they made three trips to Minot, ND and joined the effort of Hope Village to get families back in their homes following a flood. We don’t have to leave our own community to find opportunities to help those in need. Faith Builders painted a few homes, replaced outside doorsteps and help some folks move from one home to another. Our crew has expanded to include workers from other parishes and from other communities. The group has done fund raising to support their mission efforts and so, in addition to paying for a portion of the trips, have been able to contribute funds to: Be the Match bone marrow donors, Sharing and Caring Hands in the Twin Cities, Hope Village in Minot, providing safe drinking water for four families in Haiti, shipping quilts for Do-Day overseas, and providing signage for the bus used by Faith Lutheran Church and The Madison Lutheran Home. These funds allowed Faith Builders to provide financial support in places that we couldn’t reach with our hands.
Faith Builders adult mission group began in 2008 and took their first trip to Slidell, Louisiana to help with the recovery from Hurricane Katrina. Pastor Kirk Meseck and the youth had been taking ‘Jesus Trips’ each year and it sparked an interest in the adults of our congregation. Since that first trip, groups of varying sizes have made 5 trips to Slidell and one to Bay St. Louis, Mississippi to help with the ongoing recovery from Katrina. They have worked with Habitat for Humanity and America Repairs on Wheels. During the summers of 2012 and 2013, they made three trips to Minot, ND and joined the effort of Hope Village to get families back in their homes following a flood. We don’t have to leave our own community to find opportunities to help those in need. Faith Builders painted a few homes, replaced outside doorsteps and help some folks move from one home to another. Our crew has expanded to include workers from other parishes and from other communities. The group has done fund raising to support their mission efforts and so, in addition to paying for a portion of the trips, have been able to contribute funds to: Be the Match bone marrow donors, Sharing and Caring Hands in the Twin Cities, Hope Village in Minot, providing safe drinking water for four families in Haiti, shipping quilts for Do-Day overseas, and providing signage for the bus used by Faith Lutheran Church and The Madison Lutheran Home. These funds allowed Faith Builders to provide financial support in places that we couldn’t reach with our hands.
FAITH CHURCH FAIR STAND
By Ardis Christensen
What does a person think of when you say Faith church Stand? I think we all think of our famous beef commercial with a tomato slice or our homemade soup. We sell many of both in the four days of the Lac qui Parle County Fair.
This will be my tenth year, managing the fair with the help of my husband, Keith. We try to do some improvements each year at the stand to make it better. We have a long list of chair-people that take care of all the different duties involved: Preparation of food at the church kitchen, all the shifts at the fair stand and all the scheduling of workers at the kitchen and fair stand. We have some chair-people that have been doing this for 30 plus years. It takes many volunteers to run this whole operation and we are thankful for all of them. It is a fun time for all to get together and have fellowship. It is amazing how much income we make in those four days. After expenses are paid, W-ELCA gives out too many needy organizations.
What does a person think of when you say Faith church Stand? I think we all think of our famous beef commercial with a tomato slice or our homemade soup. We sell many of both in the four days of the Lac qui Parle County Fair.
This will be my tenth year, managing the fair with the help of my husband, Keith. We try to do some improvements each year at the stand to make it better. We have a long list of chair-people that take care of all the different duties involved: Preparation of food at the church kitchen, all the shifts at the fair stand and all the scheduling of workers at the kitchen and fair stand. We have some chair-people that have been doing this for 30 plus years. It takes many volunteers to run this whole operation and we are thankful for all of them. It is a fun time for all to get together and have fellowship. It is amazing how much income we make in those four days. After expenses are paid, W-ELCA gives out too many needy organizations.
FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH WOMEN
By Betty Schulz
The women of Faith Lutheran Church have their roots in what was known as ‘Ladies Aid’ in the past churches. In 1954 & 1955, a merger committee of women from Madison Lutheran and First Lutheran formulated organizational recommendations and wrote a constitution. This was accepted by members in March, 1955 and the ‘Madison Parish Women’s Missionary Federation’ was formed. Following the merger of the churches in 1956, the constitution was amended and the name became Faith Lutheran Women’s Missionary Federation.
Over the years, the names have changed for our woman’s church organization: American Lutheran Church Women (ALCW), Faith Lutheran Church Women (FLCW) and Women of the ELCA (W-ELCA). Purpose of the organization was Stewardship and Education as stated in 1961 (ALCW). That has not changed – the goal in 2014 is Study the Word and
Serve Together.
The years 1956 to 1964 were busy ones for the church women. They dedicated themselves to Education through Bible Study and monthly meetings with special programs. Through Stewardship they gave faithfully to many causes: mission both local and worldwide. The women, also, gave generously of time, talent and money toward building and furnishing of the new church. Verona Berg, Secretary wrote for the annual report in 1964, “It was an exciting year because of the completion of the new church. The first FLCW meeting in the new building was held in October. It was attended by guests from neighboring churches and by the National ALCW president-------it was with pride, joy and thanksgiving that we gathered for the first meeting.”
As an arm of Faith Lutheran Church, the Faith Lutheran Church Women (FLCW) have helped lead for the past 50 years. Needs, goals and society have changed over the years. There have been countless hours spent on service projects and education.
How has the FLCW served? The women were organized into 12 circles for service and Bible Study. In the early to mid years, weddings, silver and golden anniversaries, banquets, auction sales, funerals and so forth were prepared and/or served by the church women. Fund raising became a way to help pay toward the building fund, missionary sponsorship, the Madison Lutheran Home, Green Lake Bible Camp and for many local, church and worldwide charities. The Fair Food Stand and twice yearly rummage sales became important ways to raise money for these projects.
Being of service at Faith Lutheran has been more than raising money. Stewardship is shown through ‘Do Day’ where quilts are made and given to many groups who need them and given as gifts. Items are given for Lutheran World Relief such as Fabric Kits, Personal Care Kits, Baby Care Kits, etc. It is interesting to note that Lutheran World Relief, at one time, was giving directions for making soap and the number of pounds of soap sent was on the list of what had been donated to LWR from local women. Other service projects include the Altar Guild, Flower Committee, Kitchen Committee, Library Board, the Wedding Committee, the Fair Stand Committee and other opportunities as they arise. Groups, also, served coffee and treats monthly at the Lutheran Home, Golden Age luncheons, did hair care at the Lutheran Home, did visitation to shut-ins, etc. Currently, we serve four Birthday Parties at the Lutheran Home per year. Many of our women do visitation which is enjoyed by many people.
Education in FLCW over the years has been done in many different ways. Early in the organization, Bible Study was emphasized with the pastor giving the lesson to those who were going back to their circles to lead the lesson. The ‘Scope’ Bible Study was used for a long time. The Bible Study groups now use the ‘Gather’ Magazine. The 12 FLCW meetings were planned around current and educational topics. It is interesting to note that many women in our congregation remember when the monthly meetings were considered very important and not to be missed events. In the mid-1980’s, one FLCW president noted in her annual report that with more women working outside the home, the organization was , also, changing. There were not as many circles and there were fewer monthly meetings.
Part of the early education expectation was establishment of a library for reference books, children’s books, devotional books, etc. The FLCW regularly funded library projects and in recent years, monetary donations were given by individuals. Also donated have been Bible CD ‘s, books, etc. The FLCW has also continuing education by attending district and synod meetings.
Over the years, the Bible Study groups and the working groups have been separated. All adult church members are divided into work groups who serve lunches following funerals and serve in other ways as needed. There are four Bible study groups who meet; one meets in the evening, two meet in the morning and one meets at Hilltop in the afternoon, during each month.
The Fair Food Stand has quite a history. Early in the 50 years, women voted as to whether FLCW would serve it that year. An early vote, when building a new church, the vote was 120 yes to 19 no. The FLCW president was chairman and the 12 circle chairman were on the committee. The circles were divided into groups of three and given the day that they were to staff the stand, Thursday through Sunday. All members of Faith Lutheran Congregation are asked to help with the Food Stand at the Lac qui Parle County Fair. This is an all member mission and requires many hands for great fellowship.
The Executive Board of W-ELCA meets regularly during the year to transact business. It includes officers and Bible Study chairmen and any members who wish to attend. All proceeds from various special projects are disbursed to various charities, both local, church and worldwide. Recent project which was proposed by the Kitchen Committee was the updating of the kitchen and the committee room, New counter top, sinks, faucets, paint and floor were completed with the approval of the Executive Board. It is interesting to note that the Faith Lutheran kitchen continues to get many compliments from outside groups who come in to use it. Also, please note that the dishwasher is 50 years old and still working!
Faith Lutheran Church Women appreciate the building, which was a dream in the early merger of this church. The dream has served this congregation very well as society has changed over the years. As a part of this congregation, we need to see new opportunities to serve and educate ourselves in the future.
The women of Faith Lutheran Church have their roots in what was known as ‘Ladies Aid’ in the past churches. In 1954 & 1955, a merger committee of women from Madison Lutheran and First Lutheran formulated organizational recommendations and wrote a constitution. This was accepted by members in March, 1955 and the ‘Madison Parish Women’s Missionary Federation’ was formed. Following the merger of the churches in 1956, the constitution was amended and the name became Faith Lutheran Women’s Missionary Federation.
Over the years, the names have changed for our woman’s church organization: American Lutheran Church Women (ALCW), Faith Lutheran Church Women (FLCW) and Women of the ELCA (W-ELCA). Purpose of the organization was Stewardship and Education as stated in 1961 (ALCW). That has not changed – the goal in 2014 is Study the Word and
Serve Together.
The years 1956 to 1964 were busy ones for the church women. They dedicated themselves to Education through Bible Study and monthly meetings with special programs. Through Stewardship they gave faithfully to many causes: mission both local and worldwide. The women, also, gave generously of time, talent and money toward building and furnishing of the new church. Verona Berg, Secretary wrote for the annual report in 1964, “It was an exciting year because of the completion of the new church. The first FLCW meeting in the new building was held in October. It was attended by guests from neighboring churches and by the National ALCW president-------it was with pride, joy and thanksgiving that we gathered for the first meeting.”
As an arm of Faith Lutheran Church, the Faith Lutheran Church Women (FLCW) have helped lead for the past 50 years. Needs, goals and society have changed over the years. There have been countless hours spent on service projects and education.
How has the FLCW served? The women were organized into 12 circles for service and Bible Study. In the early to mid years, weddings, silver and golden anniversaries, banquets, auction sales, funerals and so forth were prepared and/or served by the church women. Fund raising became a way to help pay toward the building fund, missionary sponsorship, the Madison Lutheran Home, Green Lake Bible Camp and for many local, church and worldwide charities. The Fair Food Stand and twice yearly rummage sales became important ways to raise money for these projects.
Being of service at Faith Lutheran has been more than raising money. Stewardship is shown through ‘Do Day’ where quilts are made and given to many groups who need them and given as gifts. Items are given for Lutheran World Relief such as Fabric Kits, Personal Care Kits, Baby Care Kits, etc. It is interesting to note that Lutheran World Relief, at one time, was giving directions for making soap and the number of pounds of soap sent was on the list of what had been donated to LWR from local women. Other service projects include the Altar Guild, Flower Committee, Kitchen Committee, Library Board, the Wedding Committee, the Fair Stand Committee and other opportunities as they arise. Groups, also, served coffee and treats monthly at the Lutheran Home, Golden Age luncheons, did hair care at the Lutheran Home, did visitation to shut-ins, etc. Currently, we serve four Birthday Parties at the Lutheran Home per year. Many of our women do visitation which is enjoyed by many people.
Education in FLCW over the years has been done in many different ways. Early in the organization, Bible Study was emphasized with the pastor giving the lesson to those who were going back to their circles to lead the lesson. The ‘Scope’ Bible Study was used for a long time. The Bible Study groups now use the ‘Gather’ Magazine. The 12 FLCW meetings were planned around current and educational topics. It is interesting to note that many women in our congregation remember when the monthly meetings were considered very important and not to be missed events. In the mid-1980’s, one FLCW president noted in her annual report that with more women working outside the home, the organization was , also, changing. There were not as many circles and there were fewer monthly meetings.
Part of the early education expectation was establishment of a library for reference books, children’s books, devotional books, etc. The FLCW regularly funded library projects and in recent years, monetary donations were given by individuals. Also donated have been Bible CD ‘s, books, etc. The FLCW has also continuing education by attending district and synod meetings.
Over the years, the Bible Study groups and the working groups have been separated. All adult church members are divided into work groups who serve lunches following funerals and serve in other ways as needed. There are four Bible study groups who meet; one meets in the evening, two meet in the morning and one meets at Hilltop in the afternoon, during each month.
The Fair Food Stand has quite a history. Early in the 50 years, women voted as to whether FLCW would serve it that year. An early vote, when building a new church, the vote was 120 yes to 19 no. The FLCW president was chairman and the 12 circle chairman were on the committee. The circles were divided into groups of three and given the day that they were to staff the stand, Thursday through Sunday. All members of Faith Lutheran Congregation are asked to help with the Food Stand at the Lac qui Parle County Fair. This is an all member mission and requires many hands for great fellowship.
The Executive Board of W-ELCA meets regularly during the year to transact business. It includes officers and Bible Study chairmen and any members who wish to attend. All proceeds from various special projects are disbursed to various charities, both local, church and worldwide. Recent project which was proposed by the Kitchen Committee was the updating of the kitchen and the committee room, New counter top, sinks, faucets, paint and floor were completed with the approval of the Executive Board. It is interesting to note that the Faith Lutheran kitchen continues to get many compliments from outside groups who come in to use it. Also, please note that the dishwasher is 50 years old and still working!
Faith Lutheran Church Women appreciate the building, which was a dream in the early merger of this church. The dream has served this congregation very well as society has changed over the years. As a part of this congregation, we need to see new opportunities to serve and educate ourselves in the future.
Faith Lutheran Church
106 8th St Madison, MN 56256 320-598-3630 Faith Lutheran Church is a part of the ELCA. Check us out on our Facebook Page or Group For contact information see the "Contact Us" Menu For Website suggestions or Technical support please use the Contact Form or Email Us Copyright © 2023 Faith Lutheran Church All Rights Reserved |