WRITTEN BY REV. F.G.REITZ, PASTOR

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The Lutheran pioneer settlers of Hopewell township resolved in the year 1860 to organize a Lutheran congregation, in order that they might have the Word of God proclaimed in its truth and purity as they had been taught in their youth. The first services were conducted in private homes. The constitution adopted at that time has the signatures of the following members: F. Sealschott, J. Myer, Wm. Grube, J. Frahm, J. Golbeck, F. Golbeck, H. Weier, G.W. Sealschott, J. Ruse, C. Weier, C. Pierstorff, J. Lange, W. Grube, Wm. Rgedanz, C. Prehn, H.K. Krogman, F. Berlin, G. Bruggeman, J. Pierstorff, F. Lohrenz, J. Lohrenz, J. Ruse, Jr., F. Feldhaus.

The first church was but a log hut, but it served its purpose for the Congregation flourished. In the year 1880 steps were taken to build a new house of worship. This building was completed and dedicated June 22, 1882. A new Humanola organ was purchase and consecrated for divine worship July 14, 1912. Prior to this time a furnace was installed, the walls papered, carpets, altar coverings, chairs and collection plates were purchased.

Sunday, November 29, 1910, was a day long to be remembered in this congregation. On that day the golden jubilee was celebrated with appropriate and inspiring services. Summary of official acts to date: 423 baptisms, 191 confirmed, 74 marriages, 156 burials, 3,152 communed.

The following pastors have served the Congregation: Seitz, Ruhf, Heintz, Seher, Schwemle, Schmidt, Feeger, Gerkensmeyer, Luedemann, Fontana, Kubitz, Grabemann, Fritz, Melcher, Harman, and the present pastor. Rev. F.G. Reitz.

This congregation is a member of the Joint Synod of Ohio and Other States and with all true churches upholds the doctrines contained in the confessions of the Church.

Sunday School and diving services are conducted every Sunday according to the time schedule published for that purpose. The Lord's Supper is celebrated at least six times a year. All communicant members of the Congregation are invited to participate frequently in its celebration.

The regular annual business meeting is held on the 2nd day of January. At this meeting all officers are elected. All male members of the Congregation having reached the age of 18 years and having signed the Constitution are entitled to vote.

Confirmation school preparatory for confirmation is announced in due time. The public is cordially invited to attend all services, and may they rebound to the salvation of many souls on the first day of January and on the first Sunday in each quarter. The Ladies' Aid Society, of which all ladies of the Congregation are entitled to membership, is in a flourishing condition. Meetings are held every first Wednesday afternoon in each month. Besides these, quarterly business meetings are held.

The Luther League invites the co-operation of all the young people of the Congregation in the work of the church and making practical use of God's spiritual and temporal blessings.

Confirmation school for the preparation of those who desire to become confirmed members is held in the time appointed by the pastor.

May many more be added to the church to the glory of God and the redemption of their souls through the merits of Christ.