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First Lutheran Church Historical Archive |
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Church Building and Decorum |
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The following is an excerpt from "First Lutheran Chronicles"
newsletter, dated October, 1972
(Volume One, Number Five)Editor: Ralph D. Erickson |
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........... | A GRAND NEW CHURCH | ........... |
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Question: | What happened on June 10, 1951, at 10:50 A.M.? | |
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Answer: | The Dedication Service of our present church sanctuary was held. |
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.....If you didn't know the answer to that question right away, you are probably a relatively new member or one of the younger members. For the benefits of those few, and for those of us whose memories could be refreshed, that day was one of great excitement. During the processional hymn, the choir, the church council, the building committee, the architect, Joseph Holman, and Pastor Gernert all proceeded from the narthex as the first notes of "Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty" pealed. A special prayer was given by Pastor Gernert as well as a fine sermon entitled, "The Ministry of the Sanctuary," which was the highlight of the service. At this service, no doubt, the congregation realized what a grand building our church really is. |
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.....Grand is an excellent description, for, at its highest point, the ceiling reaches a majestic height of 57 feet. The beams overhead are stain-finished oak. The three Gothic arches give the church an even larger appearance. The altar of Tennessee marble appears as a solid block reminding us of Jesus' words, "On this rock will I build my church." The three marble steps of the chancel signify faith, hope, and charity. Five hundred people may be seated in the church proper; an additional one hundred in the balcony, and thirty-five may be seated in the choir loft. |
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.....We indeed owe a great deal to many people for our beautiful sanctuary. The church council consisting of Mr. H. R. Boese, Vice-President; Floyd L. Martin, Treasurer; F. W. Dahlinger, building fund treasurer; Tillman A. Fox, Secretary; Bernard Knestrick, Financial Secretary, O.L. Kleckley, Benevolence Treasurer; and the building committee was most important. The members of the building committee were: K.O. Haury, Chairman; R. E. Baulch, Kermit C. Stengel, and William E. Bibb. |
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.....One man, however, "Made" our present church. His determination and unending patience made this dream come true. That man was Dr. Irwin William Gernert. |
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