The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.
Stronghurst: Bethel Lutheran Church had it's beginning with a group of Swedish people who came to this area hoping for economic opportunities for advancement, and political freedom.
They met in various homes for religious services and on December 28, 1890, started work to form a Lutheran congregation in Stronghurst.
Twenty seven persons and their families were charter members of this congregation which was called "Den Svenska Evangelliska Lutherska Forsamling I Stronghurst."
All of the services were held in Swedish until 1924 when the congregation changed to an English speaking worship.
The church has been served by fourteen pastors over its 115 years.
The present church building was built in 1909 and dedicated on November 25th of that year.
SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY SERVICE SEPT. 18th
To celebrate this anniversary a service will be held on Sunday, September 18, at 10:30 a.m. with two former pastors participating, the Rev. Kurt Carlsen and the Rev. Robert Schacht. The present pastor, the Rev. Jim Olsen will serve as liturgist.
There will be scripture reading by Carol Myers (a member) and special music by members of the congregation. The service will be followed with a potluck dinner and an afternoon program at 1:30 p.m. A special book has been prepared continuing the history of the church.
Neighboring pastors have sent greetings and individuals will share memories of the past years. There will also be special music by members, youth and adults, during this program. Everyone is welcome to attend the events of the day.
The Bethel Anniversary Committee include:
Carol Myers, Co-Chairperson, Virginia Anderson, Co-Chairperson, Lee Carlson, Marie Livermore, Reva Peterson, Agnes Shaner, David Gerst, Barbara Malcolm, Pauline Oge, Jan Rehm, Janet Shinkle, Dolly Ford, Carol Johnson, Jeanette LaFayette, Kris Peterson, Betty Drevland, Joyce Gerst, Glennis Klein, Phyllis Harrell, Sandy Lefler, Anne Smith, Jan Ford, Janice Peterson, Joanne Hilligoss, Grace McCrery and Pastor Jim Olsen.