St. Paul Lutheran Church

1075 Glenwood Ave. Napoleon, OH 43545

Church # (419) 592-3535  Fax # (419) 592-0652

E-Mail  stpaulnapol@yahoo.com

2007-2008 Theme:  "Hearts Ablaze"

History of St. Paul Lutheran Church--Napoleon, Ohio

Pastor A. W. Bergt (1856-1864)

    St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Napoleon, Ohio was gathered by Pastor A.W. Bergt, then in charge of St. James' Church, German Township, Fulton County, Ohio.  The congregation was organized in the fall of 1856 and on November 2nd, 1856, Pastor Bergt was installed as its pastor by the Reverend A. Detzer of Defiance, Ohio.  Before Pastor Bergt's advent, Pastor Detzer had visited the Lutherans of Napoleon and given them some spiritual service.  However, the first Lutheran pastor to visit the scattered Lutherans of Napoleon, and vicinity was Rev. F. Koenig of Cincinnati, who from 1852 to 1855 made at least two itineraries in this neighborhood, baptizing the children, giving the most necessary instruction preparatory to confirmation, confirming those so prepared, distributing Holy Communion, and preaching in the homes of the people, wherever he was able to gather a small audience.  Since Henry County at that time was an almost impenetrable swamp, the visits of Pastor Koenig were connected with great difficulties and even privations and obstacles in the way of the people getting together for worship likewise were very great.

    Since Pastor Bergt lived over fifteen miles from Napoleon, he was not able to give the congregations as much service as he wished.  Then, it must not be forgotten that the roads in those days were at certain seasons of the year practically bottomless and at others so rough as to be almost impassable.  Pastor Bergt served the congregation very faithfully till he accepted a call to a congregation in Missouri in 1864.  During the six years of his pastorate at St. Paul's he baptized 38 children, confirmed 4, served at 4 funerals, and solemnized 1 marriage.  Of Pastor Bergt and his successor, Pastor Rupprecht, it must be said that neither heat nor cold, neither rough nor bottomless roads hindered them in performing their duties to the small flock of Napoleon; they sought to be shepherds of this distant flock in the fullest sense of the word..

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Pastor Paul Rupprecht (1864-1867)

    Pastor Bergt's successor in the old Leininger Church of Fulton County was Rev. Paul Rupprecht, and he also succeeded him as the pastor of the flock in Napoleon.  He entered upon his duties in St. James' Fulton County, June 5 1865, and took up the work at St. Paul's soon after.  He served St. Paul's as much as could during his incumbency of the pastorate; but it became more and more apparent that the distance and the bad roads made it almost impossible for the pastor of St. James' to serve St. Paul's.  Then, too, the membership in Napoleon was increasing to such an extent that it was thought that the whole time of a pastor might be occupied with the care of the Lutherans in and about the village.  Pastor Rupprecht therefore suggested that the congregation call its own pastor, and so candidate P. Karrer was called by St. Paul's of Napoleon, and St. Paul's of Flatrock Township, a small congregation that had just come into existence.  Pastor Karrer was installed on the 11th Sunday after Trinity by Rev. Paul Rupprecht.  Rev. Rupprecht, during his pastorate, baptized 35 children, confirmed 7, solemnized 4 marriages, and served at 3 funerals.

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Pastor P. Karrer (1867-1871)

    In the fall in which Pastor Karrer began his labors in Napoleon, St. Paul's erected its first church building.  Prior to this the congregation had for a while worshipped in a private house belonging to Philip Rieger on East Front Street, and when these quarters became too small services were held on Sunday afternoons in the Episcopal Church on West Clinton Street.  The new church building was situated on Monroe Street near East Clinton and was dedicated to its sacred purpose on the 21st Sunday after Trinity, 1867.  It can be easily understood that there was great rejoicing among the people because they now possessed their own church; and it was also quite natural that the new church accelerated the growth of the congregation.  Pastor Rupprecht preached at the dedication of the new church.  The other preacher was Prof. H. Achenbach of Concordia College, Fort Wayne.

    Under the faithful care of the new pastor the congregation experienced a healthy growth from within and without.  The services were well attended and the general interest betokened by the people in their church was quite gratifying.  During the pastorate of Rev. Karrer the congregation also built a parsonage.  Though it was small and unassuming in appearance, it was practically arranged, served its purpose, and was in keeping with the material circumstances of the membership.  Pastor Karrer baptized 50 children, confirmed 7, buried 8 persons, and solemnized 14 marriages.

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Pastor L. Dulitz (1871-1884)

    In the autumn of 1871 Pastor Karrer accepted a call to a congregation near Hoagland, Indiana.  As his successor St. Paul's called Pastor L. Dulitz, at the time located at Huntington, Indiana.  Pastor Dulitz accepted the call early in 1872, but was not able to move to Napoleon till some months after his acceptance.  He was inducted into his new parish June 2, 1872, by Pastor F. Zucker of Defiance.

    Four rural congregations had united with St. Paul's to call Pastor Dulitz, and so the new minister had a parish consisting of five charges.  It was plain to see that St. Paul's pastor had his hands full indeed.  During the long vacancy the Napoleon congregations had enlarged and greatly beautified the parsonage, and by these enlargements and improvements it had become one of the best residences of the town.

    Pastor Dulitz was most heartily welcomed and everything possible was done to make his reception a happy function.  Great success also attended the first years of his pastorate and the congregation enjoyed a steady growth.  But after a few years' service trouble arose which resulted in the departure of several members.  This trouble occurred just at the time when the whole Lutheran Church throughout the world was celebrating the third centennial of the Formula of Concord, 1877.  But while St. Paul's was torn by discord at this date, it was able to take part in the rejoicings of the Church when the 350th Anniversary of the Augsburg Confession was celebrated in 1880, since by that time all its troubles had been laid by.  Upon the occasion of the observance of the latter event a new bell in the church tower was rung for the first time.  This bell served the congregation for fifty-five years; for when the congregation moved from the old location on Monroe Street to its new house of worship, the bell was hung in the tower of the new church to continue calling members to worship.

    In 1882 St. Paul's Church in Napoleon Township (Hanover Settlement) severed its connection with the Napoleon parish and called its own pastor in the person of Rev. L. Dammann, a member of the Joint Synod of Ohio, and several former members of St. Paul's in Napoleon asked him to serve them, thus calling into being the present Immanuel Church of Napoleon.  Rev. Dulitz during his pastorate baptized 213 children, confirmed 132, solemnized 72 marriages, and buried 60 persons.

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 Pastor W. L. Fischer (1884-1898)

    In the fall of the year 1883 Pastor Dulitz, began to be subject to severe attacks of headaches which almost wholly incapacitated him for work.  Various physicians were consulted, but none was able to give him relief, and so he was compelled to resign the pastorate in August, 1884.  During the last six months of his pastorate, Rev. W. L. Fischer of the Leininger Church in Fulton County served St. John's congregation in Freedom Township quite extensively and he also preached in Napoleon at frequent intervals.  So it does not seem strange that the parish called Pastor Fischer to succeed Rev. Dulitz.  Pastor Fischer accepted the call and was installed in his new field of labor on the twenty-second Sunday after Trinity by Rev. F. Zucker of Defiance.  Pastor Dulitz moved to Detroit after his resignation and died there in November of the following year.  A memorial service was held in his honor at St. Paul's, upon which occasion Rev. Fischer preached on Hebrews 13:7.  Pastor Fischer served the congregation for fourteen years and under his faithful care the church grew in knowledge and in membership.

    A year after Rev. Fischer's advent St. Paul's with the help of the Flatrock Township congregation erected a school building, which was dedicated with appropriate ceremonies on the fourth Sunday after Trinity.  At the dedication Rev. Boese of the South Ridge Church preached the German sermon, while President R. Bischoff of Concordia College, Fort Wayne, preached in English.

    Since the congregation as such was not willing to engage a teacher and conduct the school as a parochial enterprise, a so-called School Society was organized, whose members pledged themselves to provide a teacher's salary.  The first teacher was W. Vieweg, and when he left, candidate F. Firks, a graduate of the Lutheran Normal School at Addison, Illinois, was called.  Mr. Firks conducted the school with great zeal and efficiency from August, 1886, till 1890, when he accepted the call to a parochial school in Racine, Wisconsin.  His successor was teacher F. Doepke, who taught the school with commendable ability for several years.  After the departure of teacher Doepke, students were engaged to teach the school, since the School Society found it impossible to raise the salary of a professional teacher.  Some of these students served only six weeks, while others taught from three to six months.  The last teacher during the pastorate of Rev. Fischer was Mr. Henry Reinking, who conducted the school for several years.  During his pastorate Rev. Fischer baptized 193 children, confirmed 123 persons, solemnized 79 marriages, and served 46 funerals.

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Pastor Theodore Saupert (1898-1908)

    It had gradually become the conviction of the members of the Napoleon Parish that its extensiveness prevented one pastor from adequately serving the congregations and families as they should be served.  For this reason the three congregations comprising the parish decided to separate and have each congregation call its own shepherd.  St. Paul's Napoleon, called Rev. Theodore Saupert of Evansville, Indiana, at the time out of office.  He accepted the call and was installed by Pastor Rischer October 18, 1898.  St. John's Church of Freedom Township retained the services of Rev. Fischer, while St. Paul's Flatrock Township, called candidate Hoffman.

    During the last year of Rev. Fischer's pastorate the school had been closed; but when Pastor Saupert came he made an attempt at permanently reviving it with the assistance of Miss Nora Hahn, a member of the congregation.  Miss Hahn later accepted a public school position, and was succeeded by Miss Clara Norden, who served several years.  However, since the congregation found itself unable to provide the salary for a teacher, Rev. Saupert taught the school himself till the summer of 1905.  In the fall of 1905 the school was not again opened, since the old school building had been sold with the old church, and no provision had been made for a school in the new church.  But Pastor Saupert taught a so-called Saturday school till his departure in 1908.

    During the pastorate of Rev. Fischer the need of a new church had become apparent, and several members had even purchased a well-located property for a future church site and offered it to the congregation.  The congregation purchased the site at the time, but later sold it, and for the time being all thoughts of building a new house of worship were dropped.  But a few years after the coming of Pastor Saupert the project of building a new church was revived and in a comparatively short time the sum of $15,000 had been subscribed for the purpose.  Three very desirable lots were purchased on West Clinton Street and an architect was authorized to draw plans.  Building operations began in April, 1904, and by November of the same year the building could be turned over to the building committee as being completed.  Indications were that the church would be ready for dedication at the beginning of the new year.  But due to the fact that the firm which had contracted to furnish the pews was unable to fulfill its obligations, the order had to be given to another manufacturer.  This delayed the complete furnishing of the church till June, 1905.

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    On June 9th, 1904, the cornerstone had been laid by Pastor Saupert and he had preached the sermons himself upon that occasion.  On July 2nd, 1905, the happy congregation was permitted to leave the old church on Monroe Street and hold its entry into the handsome structure of West Clinton Street.  The sermons at the dedication were delivered in German by Pastors Wambsganss of Fort Wayne and R. Brenner of Lima, and in English by Pastor F. A. Kiess of Defiance.  A mixed choir under the direction of Mrs. T. Saupert, the organist, beautified the dedicatory services by the rendition of German and English anthems.  Hundreds of guests were served at a banquet served by the ladies of the congregation at the Rink.  The collections for the day totaled $960.  Pastor Saupert performed the dedicatory ceremony proper.

    The beautiful art windows of the new church with few exceptions were donated by individual members of the congregation, most of them as memorials.  The handsome sweet-toned pipe organ was the gift of the Ladies' Aid.  The carpet for the sanctuary floor and aisles was donated by the ladies of the church not connected with the Ladies' Aid.  The Young People's Society, that had been founded in 1903, presented the artistic altar and pulpit.

    Now that St. Paul's had a new church it seemed as if also new life and vigor was showing itself.  The congregation showed itself truly appreciative of God's blessings, the services were well attended, and all seemed to take renewed interest in the affairs of the Church at home and abroad.  About this time the need of regular English services made itself felt.  The conviction grew stronger and stronger upon many of the members that the spiritual wants of the youth demanded English public services at frequent intervals.  In the annual meeting of 1906 this conviction was strongly expressed and a few months later it was decided that regular monthly English services were to be held.  Pursuant to this resolution, Pastor Saupert preached an English sermon every month till his resignation on June 5th 1908.

    Pastor Saupert baptized 119 children, confirmed 81 persons, buried 53, and solemnized 42 marriages.

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Pastor F. J. Lankenau (1908-1939)

    St. Paul's called Rev. F. J. Lankenau as successor to Rev. Saupert.  Pastor Lankenau was at the time pastor of St. Paul's Colored Church and the President of Luther College at New Orleans.  He accepted the call and was installed in his new charge by Vice-President August Lange on September 21st 1908.  On the following Sunday Pastor Lankenau preached his inaugural sermon.  After the service he informed the gathered congregation that he had come to the conviction that the greater number of young people of the congregation were deriving very little benefit from the German sermons, since he had learned during his canvass of the congregation during the past two weeks that very few under the age of thirty actually could understand German.  He also claimed that the young people themselves had admitted that they visited the services of other churches, because they derived no benefit from the services of their own church.  Pastor Lankenau declared that if he heard no objections he would, in the future, beginning with the following Sunday, conduct an English service every Sunday night; and at the same time he gave the assurance that no German services would be dropped because of these English services.  The large attendance at the English services plainly indicated the need of the introduction of weekly English services.  After World War II the use of the English language steadily grew.  English religious instruction became obligatory.  Soon there were no longer any applications for German configuration.

    In its annual meeting for 1909 the congregation decided to build a parsonage.  As soon as the weather permitted, work was begun, and a handsome roomy dwelling for the pastor soon arose on the lot west of the church.  When in November the pastor and his family took possession of the parsonage, all was fully paid!  A year later, the congregation decided to liquidate the debt of $4,000 still resting on the church.  God blessed the efforts and by January 1st 1911, it could be reported that the gathered subscriptions fully covered the debt.  The young people's society, Concordia, which for some time had longed for a better meeting place than the basement of the church, in the fall of 1917 bought the triangular lot lying in the rear of the property and presented it to the congregation with the express wish that some day a school and hall might be built on it.

    In its annual meeting for 1927, St. Paul's unanimously resolved to secure the services of a student to assist the pastor.  The student's main work was to be with the youth of the congregation.  It was planned that he should teach regularly before and after the public school sessions and on Saturday morning and afternoon, and on Sundays he should ordinarily assist in the Sunday School.  The confirmed youth were also to be his special care; the young people's society was to claim much of his attention; if possible, he was to lead the choir; and of course, during the absences of the pastor he was to fill the pulpit.

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    Many of the members had for years been of the opinion that it was detrimental to the health of the children to compel them to receive their instruction in the dark and damp basement of the church.  Several times efforts had been put forth to get a better building.  But the resolution to erect a school and hall was not passed until July, 1928, at the time when the pastor was on the Pacific Coast, where he had gone as Vice-President of the Missouri Synod to attend several district synodical conventions.  At this special meeting it was decided to erect a Parish house; for by this time the great majority of the people had come to the conclusion that they owed their children better school facilities and their various societies a better meeting place than the basement of the church afforded.

    The cornerstone for the new building was laid on August 26th.  In the presence of a large gathering of interested members and friends Pastors H. Knust and H. Schroeder preached two very appropriate sermons for the occasion.  On Pentecost, May 19th, 1929, the completed building was dedicated to its important purpose.  The sermons upon this happy occasion were delivered by Pastors F. W. G. Mueller, George Maassel, George Blievernicht, and F. J. Lankenau.

    In July of 1930, St. Paul was able to celebrate the 25th Anniversary of its new church building.  In four beautiful services Pastors A. Eggers, F. Wambsganss, F. A. Kiess, and F. W. G. Mueller set forth the reasons why our congregation should rejoice on this day.  In preparation for this event the congregation had the interior of the church newly decorated.  The decorators had done most artistic work, the color harmony being most happy, and the Christian symbolism of the frieze which ran around the whole wall of the church being most expressive of the cardinal truths of our Christian religion.  The large mural painting to the left of the sanctuary, a donation by the Missionary Society, representing the Ascension of Christ, was a true work of art, as was also the copy of Hoffman's Christ in Gethsemane, which decorated the rear wall of the church.  The Ladies' Aid donated a rich new carpet for the sanctuary and aisles, and an individual member presented the church with a complete set of altar coverings in the various liturgical colors.

    We may mention that the congregation with the sister congregations of the county celebrated the Quadricentennial of Luther's Small Catechism with appropriate services, in which Pastors C. H. Weber of Zanesville and E.J. Friedrich of Cleveland preached, and also observed the Quadricentennial of the Augsburg Confession by an all-day celebration at the fairgrounds with sister churches, at which Pastors Ph. Wambganns and Klausing of Fort Wayne, E. Voss of Saginaw, and K. Trautmann of Toledo, preached the sermons to great multitudes of people.

    Pastor Lankenau baptized 487 children and 31 adults, confirmed 267 children and 85 adults, solemnized 286 marriages, and officiated at 237 funerals.

    The total number of ministerial acts performed at St. Paul during the seventy-five years of its existence was:  Baptisms = 1166, Confirmations = 806, Marriages = 498, Funerals = 411.  The officers of St. Paul for the 75th anniversary year were:  President M. Reiser; Vice-President F.F. Benecke; Secretary Richard Mehring; Treasurer W. Fetter; Deacons John Hahn, Henry Lanzer, W. Rohrs, Ernest Spengler; Trustees Fred Gerken, D. Hogrefe, F.D. Rohrs, A. Vorwerk, J. Wieding; Collector Chas Klein; Parish House Treasurer E.G. Vorwerk.

    The history of St. Paul from 1856-1930 was compiled from unknown sources.

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(1931-1939)

    Although St. Paul Lutheran Parish Hall was built in 1928-29 and dedicated to the important purpose of providing a better place for the instruction of the youth of the congregation, it took until August of 1932 that Pastor Lankenau's dream of having a Christian Day School was finally realized.  As Vice-President of Synod he was frequently embarrassed by being asked why a large congregation like St. Paul had no school.  In the fall of 1933 the school opened.  Before that time the religious instructions had been conducted by the pastor and his assistants before and after school hours and on Saturdays.  Instructions were also given during four weeks in the summer time.  When Pastor Lankenau was elected Vice-President of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod in 1926 the congregation resolved to secure the services of a student to assist the pastor.  H.H. Backs was the first assistant, followed by Leo Albrecht, Elmer Bergman, Harry L. Krueckeberg, Paul Hartman, Otto Schlegelmilch, Roland Dede, Benjamin Timm, Elvin Riemer, Martin Zschoche, and Carl Zehner.

    When the school opened in 1933, there were 87 students enrolled.  The teaching staff consisted of Mr. E.V. Nolte, who taught grades 5-8, and Miss Helen Lankenau who taught grades 1-4.  Mr. Nolte was the principal of the school.  Through his untiring efforts St. Paul became an accredited elementary school.  The achievements of the school continued to make the congregation proud.  In 1934 the enrollment had increased to 114.  This necessitated the opening of a third classroom for the intermediate grades.  Elvin Riemer, who was then Dr. Lankenau's assistant, was the first teacher for grades 4-5.  He was succeeded by assistant Roland Dede.  When he returned to Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, the congregation called Mr. Walter Becker to teach grades 3-5.  Miss Hilda Benien taught the primary grades in 1936 and 1937.

    In the year 1934 an honorary Doctor of Divinity Degree was bestowed on Pastor Lankenau by the faculty of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, an honor which he greatly cherished.  In July 1939 Dr. Lankenau was invited to preach the opening sermon at the Walther League Convention in Kansas City.  While there on July 15th, on a couch in the President Hotel, surrounded by O.P. Kretzman and a group of young people whom he had come to serve, died of a heart attack.  At the time of his death he was serving as Acting President of the Missouri Synod.  In 1964, at the dedication of the new St. Paul Lutheran Church and School, Dr. Lankenau was honored by having his portrait hung in the Lankenau Memorial Library.  Pastor Carl Zehner, assistant to Dr. Lankenau in 1939 carried on the work at St. Paul until the vacancy was filled.

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Pastor M.J. Zschoche and Pastor John Hauser (1940-1953)

    The Rev. Martin J. Zschoche, who had served as an assistant at St. Paul in 1937 and 1938, was called from Alaska to continue the Lord's work in Napoleon.  He was installed at St. Paul on March 31st 1940 and served here for 13 years.  In 1953 he went to Trinity Lutheran Church in St. Joseph, Michigan.  In 1940 Miss Edna Theel began her teaching career in the primary grades at St. Paul.  Today, after 41 years, she continues to serve as our librarian.  After nine years of dedicated work for St. Paul Lutheran School, Mr. E.V. Nolte accepted a call to Melrose Park, Illinois.  Mr. Walter Becker, the intermediate grade teacher, succeeded him as principal.

    Pastor Zschoche was always deeply concerned about the moral welfare of the youth and the religious education of the children.  So when in 1943 the school was able to observe its tenth anniversary it was a very happy occasion for him.  The anniversary was celebrated by a special church service in which Dr. George Maassel delivered a German sermon and Dr. E.W. Koehler the English address.  There were then 103 pupils enrolled in the school and 138 had been graduated from St. Paul in the first 10 years of its existence.

    When Mr. Becker accepted a call to Milwaukee, Mr. Carl Wisch was called to fill the vacancy.  He served for several years.  Then on January 5th 1947, Mr. Herold Gersmehl replaced him as principal.  He served until his retirement.  An Appreciation Day was observed by the congregation on September 28th 1980, to honor Mr. Gersmehl for the leadership he had shown in promoting the school's welfare, and providing music for the church services.

    The membership of St. Paul continued to grow and so did the workload on the pastor.  In 1952, there were 1474 baptized members.  The congregation decided that one pastor could hardly serve all the families adequately, so a Call was extended to Rev. John Hauser to serve as assistant pastor.  In 1949 the congregation had purchased the teacherage adjacent to the parsonage and had it converted into two apartments.  The Woodlawn Avenue residence was acquired in 1952 to provide a residence for the assistant pastor.  There were temporary plans for expansion and this space could also provide the necessary ground for building an auditorium on the east side of the church.  The property that was used as the school playground had been purchased from the Napoleon Public Library in the late thirties.

    1953 was an unfortunate year for St. Paul because both pastors left the Napoleon congregation.  Pastor Zschoche accepted a pastorate at St. Joseph, Michigan in October, and the following month Pastor Hauser left to serve a congregation in Minnesota.  The teachers who served in the Christian Day School during this period as principals were:  E.V. Nolte from 1933 until 1942; Walter Becker, 1943 and 1944; Carl Wisch 1945 and 1946; Harold Gersmehl, 1947 to 1980.  Those who taught in the primary grades were:  Leona Schmidt, 1939 and 1940; Edna Theel, 1941-1979; Jennie Shartzer, 1952 and 1953.  Mrs. Harold Hoff substituted in 1951 during Miss Theel's illness.  The middle grade teachers were:  Henry Prischman in 1943; Fred Neusiis, 1944 to 1949; Lawrence Gefeke, 1950 to 1958; and Reuben Feld, 1952 and 1953.

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Pastors Gilbert Raedeke, Mark Wagner, E.A. Laabs, F.E. Kipp (1954-1962)

    After the loss of both pastors in 1953, the Lord granted the St. Paul congregation a new shepherd almost immediately.  The Rev. Gilbert Raedeke was installed on January 17th, 1954.

    The Christian Day School now had 208 students, so the building was no longer large enough to accommodate them.  It was necessary to expand, so a building program was activated.  The Parish Hall was remodeled and the auditorium was converted into the much needed classrooms.  The church basement also was remodeled.  The school was rededicated to the service of God on November 21st, 1954.  The sermon for the occasion was delivered by Dr. John Meyer who was the honorary president of the Central District of the Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod.

    Pastor Raedeke served St. Paul until November 1955 when he accepted a call to North Judson, Indiana.  The Rev. W. Werling filled the vacancy until September 2nd, 1956 on which date the Rev. Mark H. Wegner was installed into office.

    The year 1956 was an occasion for gratitude and jubilation.  St. Paul congregation was one hundred years old.  This centennial of grace was celebrated by special monthly worship services.  Dr. John F. Meyer preached the first anniversary sermon.  Other guest speakers were:  The Rev. Arnold Hahn, visitor of Circuit C., the Reverends Robert Helberg, William Huener, Robert Meyer, all sons of the congregation; the Rev. H.H. Backs and E.J. Riemer, both former assistants at St. Paul and the Reverends Martin Zschocke and Gilbert Raedeke, former pastors.

    On October 5th, 1958 Pastor E.A. Laabs was installed as Associate Pastor for St. Paul.  The Lord had added many souls to the congregation.  The baptized membership numbered 1648 souls in 1958 and the Christian Day School had 212 students and eight teachers.  There was not enough room in the church proper to accommodate all the worshippers so the basement was used to hold the overflow.  In April 1957 the Voters' Assembly had appointed a Land Acquisition and Sites Committee to study the expansion needs of the congregation.  They were to investigate the availability of property adjacent to the church on West Clinton Street and also explore the possibility of founding a daughter congregation on the south side of Napoleon.  After many meetings with members and much investigation the committee found that the best solution for the expanding needs of St. Paul was to build an entirely new plant on a new location.  In 1960 thirty-five acres of ground were purchased for this purpose on Glenwood Avenue.

    In February 1961 Pastor Wegner accepted a call to Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  Just one month later the Rev. F.E. Kipp was installed as associate pastor, replacing Pastor Wegner.  In the same year the Voters' Assembly authorized the Building Committee to sell to the Napoleon Public Library the St. Paul School and Parish Hall, the land occupied by the church, the brick parsonage, and the parking area.  St. Paul was undertaking a large project.  The Lord had blessed them abundantly.  Now a "Forward for Christ" building program to better serve Him was started.  It was decided that with the help of God and with faith in His continued blessing, no professional fund-raising organization would be needed.  The congregation pledged $285,000 and the trustees were authorized to borrow the remainder.  Mr. Joe Manor was the architect selected to draw up plans for the church and school building.

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(1962-1964)

    On July 8th, 1962 the groundbreaking ceremonies were held at the new site.  The following year on June 16th the Cornerstone Laying Service took place.  The contents of the box laid in the cornerstone were:  the Bible, the Catechism, the Lutheran Hymnal, the Lutheran Annual, and a book of convention reports; also a list of the congregational membership as well as mementoes of Napoleon's Centennial and some coins.  A United States flag and current issues of area newspapers were also included.

    1964 was a year of great significance in the history of St. Paul congregation.  The Lord had showered countless blessings upon the congregation.  On February 9th, dedication and festival services for St. Paul Lutheran Church and School were held in three special hours of worship.  Formal dedication ceremonies took place at 10 a.m.  Parishoners gathered outside the doors for the formal opening, then entered to dedicate the structure and all its furnishings to the glory of God.  Dr. John Behnken, honorary president of the Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod delivered the sermon.  Pastors Laabs and Kipp served as liturgists and Mr. Gersmehl was the organist.  In the afternoon festival service the Rev. Armin Oldsen, former Lutheran Hour speaker, was the preacher and Dr. Ottomar Krueger, president of the Ohio District, served as liturgist.  The organist for both the afternoon and the vesper services was Miss Ruth Splittgerber.  The Rev. M.J. Zschoche, former pastor, delivered the sermon for the Vesper Festival Service, Dr. George Maassel was the liturgist.  Special music for all services was provided by the students of the Christian Day School and the adult choir of St. Paul, under the direction of Mr. Gersmehl.

    Christian education is the Mission of the church and St. Paul had adequately provided for it.  In addition to the Christian Day School, there have always been Sunday School and Bible Classes, as well as special instructions for the public school children.  In 1964, there were 249 pupils enrolled at St. Paul School.  The following teachers taught under Principal H.C. Gersmehl from 1954 to 1964:  Lawrence Gefeke, Norman Riemer, Marcille Liddle, Edna Theel, Jennie Shartzer, Romain Schall, Marlene Strewski, Martha Grefe, Kathryn Detterer, Edna Merkle, Emily Bearden, Ruth Splittgerber, Marilyn Etzler, Walter Teuscher, Louise Gersmehl, Carole Elferdink, Donald Peterson, Kenneth Eggman, and Melvin Zehnder

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Pastors E.A. Laabs, Paul Weber, David Buegler (1965-1981)

    The Lutheran Church has always been a singing church.  Music to praise the Lord and to beautify the divine service is one of the important forms of worship.  The new organ to lead in congregational singing and to accompany the various choirs, could not be delivered at the time of the dedication of the church.  It was delayed until February 7th 1965 when the organ was formally dedicated.  Dr. Carl Halter, of Concordia Teachers College, River Forest, Illinois, presented a sacred concert suitable for the occasion.

    The congregation was saddened when Pastor F. E. Kipp, who had worked so faithfully during the church's transition period, accepted a call to Salem Lutheran Church, Coloma, Michigan.  He preached his farewell sermon on July 11th 1965.  At the Mortgage burning celebration in 1975, Pastor Kipp was to deliver the sermon, but illness prevented him from coming.

    The congregation also built a parsonage at Glenwood and Lynne Avenue.  It was dedicated on November 28th 1965.  It later became the home of the Rev. Paul A. Weber who was installed as Associate Pastor on August 12th 1966 to replace Pastor Kipp.  After laying sidewalks and paving the parking lot, the building committee was dissolved in 1966.  Their many hours of service were amply rewarded in the beauty of the edifice which they had helped to erect.  The Lord had granted his blessings to the humble efforts of man to build a temple to His service.  In 1968 the congregation completely divested itself of the property on West Clinton Street by selling the teacherage to the public library.

    Up until the year 1968, the St. Paul pastors still conducted a German service for the benefit of the elderly, many of whom had been instructed in the German language.  The attendance at these services was waning.  The Board of Elders decided to contact all who attended these services and it was unanimously decided to discontinue the German language service.

    In 1973 the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod observed its 125th anniversary.  The St. Paul congregation in thankful appreciation of the blessings received through faithful pastors and teachers, provided through the Synod, participated in the celebration of the milestone.  Former Pastors F. E. Kipp, M.H. Wegner, and G. Raedeke returned to Napoleon to preach for this special occasion.

    Throughout the years God's blessings were poured out on St. Paul.  In order to give members and guests additional opportunities to hear the glorious message of the Gospel, Thursday evening services were started during June, July, and August.  Love for his fellowman prompts a Christian to extend a helping hand to someone in need.  In 1975 the Social Welfare Committee of the Board of Elders at St. Paul looked into the matter of sponsoring a Vietnamese family.  In the fall, the Rong Le family of six arrived.  They were in our midst about a year and a half.  Then homesickness caused them to leave to be among their own countrymen in San Francisco.

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1975 - 1980

    June 8th 1975 was a day of rejoicing.  The Lord had placed His abundant blessings upon the feeble efforts of St. Paul.  It was possible after a period of eleven years to close the books on the financial costs of their beautiful plant.  A mortgage burning ceremony was celebrated with songs of thanksgiving to the Lord and a renewed dedication to His service.

    On July 4th 1976, St. Paul participated in the celebration of our nation's 200th birthday.  A special service of thanksgiving for God's many blessings upon our country was held.  Our National Anthem was among the hymns sung and the Gettysburg Address and the Declaration of Independence were read by members of the congregation.  Pastor Weber, who had been a devoted shepherd for St. Paul for eleven years, was honored on June 19th 1977 when the congregation celebrated the 25th Anniversary of his Ordination into the ministry.

    God tells us in His Holy Word to minister to those who need us.  Therefore, when the St. Paul congregation was asked to consider taking on sponsorship of a refugee family from the Far East, the members resounded in the affirmative.  On October 2nd 1979, a Laotian family of eight, the Fai Chai Thor family, arrived from Thailand where they had been in a refugee camp since 1975.  St. Paul provided for their physical needs and although the language barrier made it difficult to instruct them, an attempt was made to tell them about the great love of God.  They left Napoleon in 1980 to go to Minnesota where a group of Laotians had settled.

    Because of a change in the Constitution of St. Paul, women were eligible to become voting members.  Four ladies joined the Voters' Assembly.  1980 was an eventful year for St. Paul.  The Lord had continued to shower His blessings on the congregation.  Many souls had been added.  The baptized membership had risen to 2481.  The members of the congregation made the momentous decision to call a third pastor.  They extended a call to Pastor David Buegler of Jackson, Michigan.  He accepted and was installed as Associate Pastor on August 30th 1980.

    Mr. H.C. Gershmehl, who had served the Christian Day School as principal, and the congregation as organist and choir director, retired.  He was succeeded by Mr. Steven J. Wentzel.  There were in the 1980-81 term, 258 students enrolled in the school, therefore, it became necessary to enlarge the building.  An additional classroom and a utility room were added.

    On November 9th 1980, Pastor E.A. Laabs was honored by a special service on the occasion of his 40th anniversary in the office of the holy ministry.  He had served St. Paul faithfully for 21 years.

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1981

    1981 marked the 125th Anniversary of St. Paul Lutheran Church.  During all these years God's Word has been preached in truth and purity by dedicated pastors and for almost 50 years the children have been instructed in a Christian Day School.  All thanks and honor be to God.  In this year of grace, St. Paul is re-dedicating itself to the Great Commission to spread God's Word at home and abroad by participating in the "Forward in Remembrance" program of the Lutheran Church.

    The first festival service to commemorate the 125th anniversary was held on March 29th.  At that service the 260 new pipes, which had been added to the organ, were dedicated in two special services.  The Rev. James Dishop, a son of the congregation, delivered the sermon based on Psalm 150 - "Praise the Lord".  Mr. Steven Wentzel explained the various functions of the organ and demonstrated its capabilities.  Then to the harmonious strains of the new organ the congregation raised their voices to praise their gracious Lord.

    On May 3rd, choirs from the Lutherans congregations of our area joined together in a concert of sacred songs to help us celebrate and thank God for 125 years of His love and blessings to St. Paul.  The individual choirs each sang one number and the combined choirs of over 200 voices sang several selections.  The celebration continued on June 14th.  A "Founders Day" service was held in which those who had been members of our congregation before 1918 were especially honored.  After going through the records and possible missing a few names, a list of 44 members was compiled.  The Rev. Robert Helberg, a son of the congregation, was the guest speaker.  On July 12th, an outdoor service was held at the Henry County Fairgrounds.  It gave the congregation an opportunity to worship under God's blue skies and to thank Him for all the material blessings of the earth which He had granted to the members during these many years.  The Rev. David Beugler preached on the theme, "Little But Large".  A special service honoring the youth of the congregation was held on August 9th.  During the 125 year history of St. Paul, the youth and young people have played a prominent role.  The Rev. David Zachrich, a son of the congregation, preached on the theme, "Children Touched by God".

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    In the month of September two services were set aside to commemorate the 125th anniversary.  On September 13th, Dr. Oswald Hoffman, speaker for the Lutheran Hour, preached in both services.  He emphasized the role of the clergy in the 125 year history of the church.  His theme was "Onward for Christ".  On September 20th, the Rev. Robert Meyer, son of the congregation, preached on the subject of St. Paul and Missions.  He used as his text, Rev. 3:7-9.

    November brought the climax of the year long celebration, thanking God for His grave over the past 125 years.  The anniversary service was held on November 8th.  All three pastors of St. Paul preached in both services.  The Rev. E.A. Laabs preached on the past, using the theme "Why Should We Give Thanks Unto The Lord".  The Rev. Paul A. Weber preached on the present with the theme, "Living Stones".  The Rev. David D. Buegler looked to the future and preached on the theme, "Who Is On The Lord's Side".  All in all it was year of great rejoicing.

    Teachers that were added to the St. Paul faculty from 1965 to 1981 were:  Donald Buuck, Jeanette Kohler, David Hardy, Ruth Panning, Ralph Mickley, Sue Wiechers, Florence Dielman, Ruth Romaker, Carl Holschen, Faye Reineke, Phil Peters, Louise Meyer, Marian Schrupp, Jeanette Schlegel, Janice Schlade, Mark Eichberger, Judith Tassler, Tom Tassler, Dennis Briel, Nancy King, Margaret Holls, Judy Clow, Vicki Wentzel, Steven Wentzel, Anita Ruffino, Denise McColley, Margaret Spencer, John Hammon, Kay Demro, Pat Marshall, Marj Bostelman, Joanne Doenges, Patricia Waldbauer, Linda Potter, Sue Aschemeier, David Stuebe, Duane Longmire, Kari Larson, Amy Schildwachter, and Christie Weber.  Secretaries who served St. Paul Lutheran Church since 1951 are:  Mrs. Hugo Dishop, Miss Florence Raedeke, Miss Joyce Sickmiller, Mrs. Wayne Spencer, Mrs. Wayne Hahn, Mrs. Richard Bell, Mrs. John Kuhn, and Mrs. Harold VonDeylen.  Mrs. Harold Gershmehl and Mrs. John Hammon served as school secretaries.  The history of St. Paul is an account of Christ's mercies abundantly bestowed upon His church.  It reveals in every event the guidance and blessing of our Heavenly Father.  In its history, not the merits, efforts, sacrifice and achievement of men are to be extolled, but solely the great mercy of God.  To God therefore, be all the glory and honor.

    We thank Mrs. Otto (Laura) Lankenau for compiling the history of our church from 1931 to 1981.  Her time and efforts are most appreciated.

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1982

    On April 18^th, 1982 the congregation recognized Miss Edna Theel for 41 years of faithful service in the teaching ministry.  Rev. Paul Weber preached with the theme “Thank You Lord, for Miss Theel” . . . Philippians 1:2-3.

    A service of Thanksgiving and Appreciation was held on August 29, 1982, honoring Pastor Paul A. Weber, who was elected to the office of the President of the Ohio District, LCMS.  The theme for Pastor Weber’s sermon was “My Wish for you”.  President Weber faithfully labored for the Lord at St. Paul for 16 years.  Pastor Buegler was then appointed as Administrative Pastor of St. Paul.

    Miss Amy Schildwachter resigned from her teaching position in 1982, Miss Elizabeth Opel, a 1982 graduate from Concordia, Ann Arbor, was installed on September 12, 1982.  She was assigned to teach the 7^th grade and departmentalized English in our school.

    The Rev. Rodney Funk was installed as Associate Pastor on October 10, 1982.  The Rev. Walter J. Baese, 3^rd Vice-President of the Ohio District delivered the sermon.

    In 1982 we began using the new hymnal, Lutheran Worship.  Many members of the church made personal gifts to purchase the hymnals.  The membership at the close of 1982 stood at 2580 baptized members and 1958 communicant members.

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1983

    Pastor Buegler taught the Bethel Series, a two-year overview of the entire Bible, and Pastor Funk began the Stephen Series Study and Ministry of Caring.

    On August 21, 1983 the Rev. Dennis W. Glick was installed as Associate Pastor in a special service held at 7:30 in the evening.  The Rev. Paul A. Weber, President of the Ohio District LCMS, delivered the sermon.

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1984

    A special festival worship service was held on Sunday, April 29, 1984 to commemorate the 50^th Anniversary of St. Paul Lutheran School.  Our former Pastor Mark H. Wegner delivered the sermon.  This was followed by a catered meal and program in the gymnasium.  Many former faculty members and students returned for the event.  We are thankful for the Christian teachers that have provided their talents and leadership over the years in service to the Lord.

    A Shepherding Program, similar to the Deacon-Regional Director Program used in our congregation in the past, was implemented in 1984.  Karen Geil was hired to serve as the Shepherding Secretary, a new full-time position in the church office.  The congregation was mapped geographically into eighty zones and a family was recruited from each zone that would serve as their neighborhood Shepherd.  The purpose of the program was to maintain a closer contact with our members.

    The Youth began to meet as a combined group and a new name was selected for their organization:  St. Paul Lutheran Youth Fellowship (LYF).  A Youth Board was established in 1984 and consisted of three elected lay people, three youth, and three youth supervisors.

    With the continued growth of the school and an enrollment of 276 students, the congregation and the Voters in a special assembly on November 14, 1984 overwhelmingly approved a new addition to the South wing of the school.  Buehrer Group of Maumee, Ohio was chosen as the Architect.  The addition included six new classrooms, a new library, a new multi,-purpose room, toilets, a 5000 sq. ft. basement, and office and computer lab modifications in the existing facility.  This expansion was undertaken with the goal that it would be used to lift people closer to the love of Christ.  It is the people of God who love the Christ and who responded with that love that made this entire project such a joy and blessing to our congregation.  The Building Committee consisted of the following people:  Phil Patton (Chairman), Donald Fetter, Lynn Rausch, Willie Hesterman, Von Berlin, Kathy Conrad, Burdette Engler, Lois Knuth, Edna Theel, and Ralph Vocke.  The Finance Committee consisted of the following people:  Gary Spencer (Chairman), Walt Thielman, Larry Haase, Eldon Meyer, Bill Wendt, Paul Kimble, and Marty Jackson.  Ex-Officio members were:  Rev. David Buegler, Rev. Rodney Funk, Rev. Dennis Glick, Steve Wentzel, Ron Lankenau, Tom Tassler, Don Maassel, and Norma Ernest.  Dedication of this new addition was held on January 12, 1986 with the Rev. Paul Weber serving as the guest speaker.

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1985

    The Rite of Friendship was started in our congregation and the Shepherding program continued to grow.  Karen Geil, the Shepherding Secretary, moved from the area in 1985 and Linda Badenhop was hired to replace her.

    The Youth Puppet Ministry and Handbell Choir became active in worship services and other functions.

    A significant change in our school program in 1985 was the addition of a Kindergarten.  Thirty-five students were enrolled the first year.  Susan Aschemeier accepted the position to teach Kindergarten, one session in the morning and one in the afternoon.  An exterior sculpture depicting Christ Blessing the Children was applied to the east wall of the new addition and is lighted from the ground during the evening.  This Christian art is a visible testimony to why we exist as a Christian School.

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1986

    A new communion distribution format was initiated in 1986.  It was no longer necessary for the communicants to sit in the front pews of the nave.  They now could sit anywhere in the nave and be ushered forward for communion.

    Pastor Rodney Funk requested a peaceful release from his call at St. Paul in June of 1986.  In a service of Thanksgiving and Appreciation, Pastor Funk’s sermon theme “Faith Forward” was based on Hebrews 11:8-18.  He began a one-year training program at Riverside Hospital, Toledo in institutional chaplaincy.  Also honored in this service were teachers Linda Potter and Kari Longmire who resigned from their teaching positions.  Jeff Schlueter, a Seminarian, was hired for the remainder of the summer to serve part-time during the pastoral vacancy.  In December of 1986 Vicar Norm Koy was added to our pastoral staff.

    Throughout 1986, The Long Range Planning Committee, consisting of thirty-two members, met to see how St. Paul congregation should be moving so that it would be prepared for ministry as we looked to the 1990’s.  The committee concluded that the aim for the 90’s was to involve more and more of God’s people in the Word . . . in Worship . . . and in Witness.  Parish Planning Council was established to re-organize boards for more effective communication and responsibility.

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1987

    Von Berlin, who was serving as a member of the Board of Elders, resigned due to his entering the Seminary at Fort Wayne.

    A third worship service was started on Thursday evenings.  The substantial growth in adult Bible study and the increase in average church attendance were notable.  The Elders also began to make Sunday visits to members at the local hospital.  The baptized members now numbered 2715 and the communicant members numbered 1986.

    The Social Welfare Committee opened a Food and Clothing Bank in the basement of the church.  This project was a huge success.

     In a Special Voters’ meeting on February 15, 1987 it was decided to call a graduate for the purpose of teaching one of the second grade classes.  Julie Shoemaker came to St. Paul to fill that position.

    The Adult Handbell Choir under the direction of Pastor Koy was organized in February of 1987.

    A new Carillon system was purchased and a new Sound system was installed in the sanctuary.  On a trial basis, worshipers were not ushered from the sanctuary at the close of the services.  After one month we returned to our former practice.  The weekly Sunday morning radio broadcast on WNDH entitled, “A Message of Hope” was aired for the first time on October 25, 1987.

    A call was extended to Vicar Norm Koy to be our third pastor after completing his vicarage.  Vicar Koy accepted the call and our congregation had the privilege of witnessing the Ordination and Installation of the Rev. Norm Koy in a special service held at St. Paul on Sunday, November 22, 1987 at 7:00 p.m.  Dr. Walther Marcis from Cleveland was the guest preacher for this joyous occasion.  His sermon was based on Proverbs 30:5 with the theme, “Entrusted with the Shield”.

     Brand New Start—In 1987 St. Paul held a program of weeklong outreach into the community.  In the month of September, in each worship service, our members offered names of acquaintances that had no church home.  Nearly 100 members were recruited and trained for various tasks that needed to be done. Personal visits were made in October to 65 Napoleon area homes with personal invitations to attend our Open House events.  In addition, nearly 1000 homes within a 15-block area of our church were canvassed to determine who are the unchurched around us.  From these efforts we gained prospects for our outreach efforts.  During Open House week, two beautiful services were attended by about 250 people each.  Pastor Buegler preached, Pastors Koy and Glick shared the children’s messages and handled the question and answer periods.  Special music was provided by our choir and instrumentalists, and special guest Ben Schaffer.  A Wednesday evening live concert by Mr. Don Wharton was nearly 1,000 people pack the gym to hear a moving witness of the Gospel through music, including the theme song of the week, “A Brand New Start”.  God always blessed His people when they joyfully share the Good News with others.

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1988

    Three Easter services, each with a different message, were held at 6:30, 9:00, and 10:30 for the first time on April 3, 1988.

    In June of 1988, Pastor David Buegler was elected Ohio District President.  The congregation granted him a peaceful release and a Service of Celebration and Appreciation honoring Rev. Buegler was held on July 31, 1988.  His sermon theme “Nothing but Christ” was based on 1 Corinthians 2:2.

    A call was extended to Jeffrey Moeller of Indiana to serve as Minister of Youth and Nurture.  Mr. Moeller was installed on August 28, 1988.  Pastor Norm Koy preached on the theme “Making Choices” from Joshua 24:1-18.  Graduate student Carol Rivera from Ann Arbor, Michigan was called to teach one of the third grade classes at St. Paul.  Carol was installed on September 11, 1988.  Pastor Glick’s sermon theme was “Growing in Faith” based on Philippians 3:12-14.

    1988 was a year of special celebration and thanksgiving as our school was given the highest possible honor for an elementary school.  St. Paul was name a National Exemplary School by the United States Department of Education.  This award is a reflection of the efforts of many people who care for and support our school—pastors, teachers, students, parents, and congregational members.  It reflects our commitment to a high standard of learning, educational excellence, teacher effectiveness, and student success.  The achievements together with our religious education and Christian perspective in all aspects of our daily school life have been a true blessing to this congregation and its families.  The award was officially given to St. Paul on September 15^th in Washington D.C.  Miss Edna Theel, teacher representative, Lonnie Dishop, Chairman of the Board of Education, and Mr. Steve Wentzel, Principal, traveled to Washington D.C. to accept the award in ceremonies presided over by President Ronald Reagan and U.S. Secretary of Education William Bennett.  What a great blessing this was and we were all reminded to be thankful of God’s guidance and grace that took place in the school year.  Two Children’s Christmas Eve services were held for the first time due to crowded conditions in the gym.

    Mrs. Alice Greenhagen retired from her position as school cook after many years of faithful service.  Mrs. Patt Stuebe was hired to replace her.

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1989

    A pre-school was opened in 1989.  Lou Ann Limbird was installed as the pre-school teacher with an enrollment of 42 students.  Three classes met two half-days a week.

    Thirty-three youth and adults from St. Paul attended the LCMS Youth Gathering August 5-9, 1989 in Denver, Colorado.

    Rev. Dennis Glick accepted a call to St. Paul Lutheran Church, Boca Raton, Florida.  A service of Thanksgiving and Appreciation was held on May 28, 1989.  Pastor Glick’s farewell sermon entitled “To God Be the Glory” was based on Luke 12:32-40.  A call was extended to Rev. Gilbert Schillinger in a special Voters’ Meeting on June 26, 1989.  Pastor Schillinger accepted the call and was installed on Sunday, September 10, 1989 in a special service at 7:00 p.m.  The Rev. David D. Buegler, President of the Ohio District, LCMS delivered the sermon.

    The St. Paul Lutheran Women’s Missionary League re-organized in 1989 and formed a Board with interest circles including:  Altar Guild, Missionary Society, Ladies Guild, Losing Yet Gaining, Welcome, Caring Business and Professional Women.  A constitution was drafted in accordance with the International LWML.

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1990

    One of our teachers, Mary Dietzel, accepted a call to teach in Saginaw, Michigan.  A farewell reception in her honor was held on Sunday, July 29, 1990.

    Our Pastoral staff was brought to full force in 1990.  This was accomplished when Pastor Steve Chellew, a graduate from the Ft. Wayne Seminary, accepted our call to serve as Minister of Church Growth.  A service of installation was held on August 5, 1990 at 7:00 in the evening.  Rev. David Buegler, President of the Ohio District gave the sermon.

    Mr. Charles Kramer accepted the call extended him by St. Paul to teach the fifth grade.  A call was also extended to Mrs. Pat Kramer to replace Mary Dietzel.  Mr. and Mrs. Kramer were installed on September 9, 1990.  The Rev. Steve Chellew used Acts 4:18-20 as his sermon text with the theme “Stand Up”.

    Mrs. Lani Brandt resigned her teaching position in December of 1990 and was replaced by Mrs. Delores Zachrich.

     Due to the crowded conditions of the school, with an enrollment of 401 students, it became necessary to renovate the basement for use as a Band room, Computer room, etc.  Concerns about school funding prompted participation in a School Funding Committee and mandatory parent meetings to discuss church attendance and financial stewardship.  A study was made for a tuition charge for members.  Another session of preschool was added.  This brought the largest class enrollment to 56 students.

    Under the leadership of Pastor Chellew, expanded singles and evangelism ministry took place.  Fifteen people were involved in Stephen Ministry, receiving months of training to learn how to best serve people going through crisis and stress in their lives.  Divorce, death, in actives, shut-ins, hospitalization, suicidal tendencies, depression, aging, child-birth, and the Biblical Theology of care were just a few of the topics studies.

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1991

    Mr. Ken Witte was hired as head custodian to replace Frank Smith, who retired after many years of faithful service.  In 1991, Sharon Vorwerk was hired to replace Linda Badenhop in the church office.

    Teacher Dan Brandt submitted his resignation.  Mrs. Tami Sundermann was hired to teach the fourth grade and Mrs. Delores Zachrich was hired to teach the first grade.  Because of budget concerns, the two sixth grades were combined with 39 students.  A teacher’s aide, Helen Stucky, was hired to assist the teacher in the classroom.  A major change in our school was a new church attendance policy that was passed by the Voters’ Assembly.  Parents were required to attend church 70% of the time or pay tuition.

    A new wireless infrared headset system was installed with six headsets available to our worshipers.

     In September of 1991, another worship service was added on Sunday mornings.  Along with our schedule of Bible Studies and Sunday School at 9:15 a.m., we also joined together in our sanctuary for a service of praise, the “Informal Worship”.  By the end of the year the average number in attendance was 200.  The total average weekly worship attendance was 1262.  Our membership in 1991 stood at 2940 baptized souls and 2128 communicants.

    In 1991 the annual budget, including giving to Missions, reached over one million dollars.  We saw an increase in weekly giving of almost 20% more than the year before, which enabled us to fulfill our budget requirements and keep our deficit from growing any larger.  However, in an effort to reduce spending, the Board of Elders sponsored the “Praise the Lord” debt reduction drive.  It was also decided to discontinue use of ordered bulletin covers and mailing the Epistle each month.  Challenges for 1992 included:  hold down the deficit, determining how best to meet the needs of our school students through staffing, maintaining and improving our 28 year old building, adopt a new constitution, and short and long term planning for the continued growth of the ministries of the church and school.

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1992

    The revised Constitution, emanating from a resolution from the Long Range Planning Committee, was accepted at the April 27, 1992 Voters’ Assembly.  Those who served on the Constitution Committee included:  Ralph Badenhop, Stephanie Homan, Keith Engler, Florence Dielman, Lawrence Haase, Pastor Norm Koy, Norma Giffey, Denise McColley, David Schlade and Elfrieda Spencer.  The Lord blessed us with many gifts and talents.  As a result, we were able to expand the manpower on our Boards.  The Board of Elders, Board of Parish Education, and Board of Trustees gained additional members according to the new Constitution.  To help us carry out the “Great Commission” we now have the benefits of the Board of Witness and Outreach.  Through this Board, our “Greeter” program was improved, a comprehensive public relations campaign regarding our school was begun and the adult members going through Confirmation saw a substantial rise in attendance.  The Board of Education received the addition of a Parish Division, to deal with our Sunday School, VBS, Adult Education, and SAINTS ministries.

    Our DCE. Jeff Moeller received and accepted a Call to St. Louis, Missouri.  Jeff's impact on our youth and education programs during his four years was astounding.  Patrick Pelltier was then hired to continue the youth program.  In 1992-1993 Vicki Roth, Parish Worker, was added to our staff.

    On the negative side, we reached the greatest deficit in the history of St. Paul, over $102,000.00  The newly formed Board of Stewardship swung into action.  Through congregational assemblies, mailings, and minuteman talks, the word got out.  Action was taken to decrease spending and increase giving.

    The capital improvements program, "Onward for Christ", was started and the money raised was used for replacing the church roof and remodeling the basement into classrooms, youth room, and band room.  Our members over-pledged the drive.  We thank and praise God for this action.  Serving on the basement planning committee were:  Dr. Robert Limbird, Terry Hoops, Roger Rathge, Jennie Plassman, Lynn Rausch, Deb Rohrs, Ed Delventhal, and ex-officio members, Jeff Moeller, Steve Wentzel, and Pastor Steve Chellew.

    With a genuine concern for the spiritual well being of our in actives and out of state members, contacts were made and letters were sent to encourage their return or to transfer to a local LCMS congregation closer to them.  The attendance of the Informal Worship service increased to an average of 300 per worship.  However, there was a decline in Bible Study attendance.  To help us use our Talents, Gifts, and Treasurers more wisely a three-year plan, "Vision to Action" was developed.  We continued to look at being better stewards of our facilities, and moving our members into a spirit of generous and cheerful giving.  Each member was asked to identify his/her gifts, and develop and utilize them in service to the Lord.

    On August 30, 1992, Mr. Paul Eggebrecht was installed as a teacher for one of our sixth grade classes.  Rev. Steve Chellew's sermon theme was "Hand Me The Torch" from Isaiah 62.1

    Forty-seven youth and adults from St. Paul attended the 1992 Lutheran Church Youth Gathering in New Orleans.

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1993

    Mr. David Stuebe was honored on April 25, 1993 for 25 years in the Teaching Ministry.

    In 1993, Pastor Gilbert Schillinger accepted a call to St. John Lutheran Church, Indianapolis, Indiana and Pastor Steve Chellew received and accepted a call to Christ Lutheran Church, Marshfield, Wisconsin.  This left two vacancies for pastors as well as the DCE. position.  We again experienced God's blessings in receiving temporary services of retired Pastors Paul Weber and David Koenig, who agreed to assist until the vacancies were filled.  Pastor Norm Koy was called and accepted to serve in the capacity of Senior Pastor.  The vision for two Associates was to focus the attention on Witness and Outreach for one and the second Associate was to put an emphasis on Family Life/Counseling.

    A big change for our school was the need to charge tuition for members.  The Voters decided that member families would pay $225.00 per year per family.

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1994

    On Sunday, April 17, 1994 Marian Yoder was honored for 25 years in the Teaching Ministry at St. Paul.  Pastor Koy's sermon for the Anniversary was "Overcoming One Dimensional Thinking" based on Luke 24:36-49.

    As our school continued to grow, with 424 students enrolled in Pre-school through Grade 8, additional staff and facilities were required.  Mrs. Vicki Wentzel was called as an additional teacher.  Each grade in our school now had two classed for the first time.  Mrs. Lou Ann Limbird resigned as Preschool teacher.  Mrs. Limbird gave valuable service in beginning our Preschool program and continued to help the school in a number of areas.  After many years of faithful service, Mrs. Jan Schlade resigned as 4th Grade teacher so she could accompany her husband Dave in his travels with "Laborers For Christ".  Mrs. Stephanie Eggebrecht was hired by the Board of Education.  The congregation called Miss Cheryl Kaiser, a graduate from Concordia, Ann Arbor.  On Sunday August 28, 1994, Stephanie Eggebrecht, Cheryl Kaiser, and Vicki Wentzel were installed.

    Pastor Peter C. Marcis accepted the call to serve as Associate Pastor for Witness and Outreach.  A service of installation was held on September 11, 1994.  His father, the Rev. T. Richard Marcis Sr., delivered the sermon entitled "Joshua . . . An Example Of Excellence" using Joshua 1:9 as the text.

    Mr. Ron Roth was honored for 25 years in the Teaching Ministry on Sunday, September 18, 1994.  The sermon "The Great Line-Up" was given by Pastor Marcis based on Mark 8:34-35.

    After leaving the position of Preschool teacher, Lou Ann Limbird volunteered to be the Director of Discipleship.

    Crusader Care began in the fall of 1994.  Marge Bostelman was hired as Program Director, Mike Lanzer was hired as a teacher, and Carol Lazenby as a teacher aide.

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1995

    Pastor Timothy Saleska was installed as Associate Pastor of Family Life on May 14, 1995.  The Rev. Dean O. Wenthe ThM,PhD. of Concordia Seminary, Fort Wayne used Rev. 21:1-5 as his sermon text with the theme, "The New Heaven, The New Earth, and a New Pastor".

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1996

    Patrick Pelltier left as Youth Director to pursue other employment.  Lay members helped with the youth program until the full time DCE. position would be filled.  The position of DCE. was filled when Kurt Mews was installed March 17, 1996.  In the service of installation the Rev. Norm Koy's sermon text was, "Freed To Serve" from Romans 6:15-23.

    The mission statement that was adopted read:  "We are empowered by God's love to teach and equip all people with Christ's healing, care, and peace".  Signs were placed at all three exits of the parking lot which read:  "You are now entering the mission field".  Over 500 members attended a congregational picnic, which was held in August and coincided with Rally Day and the Dedication of the basement remodeling.  The afternoon was filled with food, fun, and homemade ice cream.

    Children's Music Ministries included the Children's Choir for Grades 2-4 under the direction of Brenda Zuch; the Junior Choir directed by Vicki Roth for Grades 5-7; and the Choir Chimes for Grades 5-7.  Miss Edna Theel retired from her position as librarian after tirelessly devoting her time and energy for the betterment of St. Paul Lutheran Church and School.  She was a model of a Lutheran teacher for all and continued to help out in the library.  Mrs. Jane Meyer was hired as the school librarian.

    A gazebo was constructed in the Memorial Garden.  New lights were installed in the gymnasium and a new message sign was installed in the front lawn near the school.

    The first "Locator" was published in 1996 by Holy Toledo Directories and has continued to be printed every year since.

    A new sound system was installed in the church.

    "The Gift Goes On", was the 1996 Christmas project sponsored by the Board of Social Ministry.  Many families were given help toward food and/or special gifts.  Monies were also sent to LCMS Human Care ministries for Housing and to the Cherry Street Mission, Toledo.  This was made possible through the generous gifts from the members of St. Paul.

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1997

    Mr. John Hammon was honored for twenty-five years in the Teaching Ministry on Sunday, March 9, 1997.  Our Preschool teacher, Mrs. Julie Dietrich, resigned at the end of the 1996-1997 school year and Mrs. Kimberly Kleckner was hired to replace her.

    Pastor Timothy Saleska accepted a call to the St. Louis Seminary and gave his farewell sermon on June 1, 1997.  Pastor Paul Weber once again assisted Pastors Koy and Marcis until the vacancy was filled.

    Forty-eight youth and eight adults attended the National Youth Gathering in Atlanta.

    On October 26, 1997 Mr. Charles Kramer was honored for twenty-five years in the teaching ministry.

    A Service of Installation was held on Sunday, November 9th, 1997 for Associate Pastor Timothy J. Shoup.  The Rev. Kenton Wendorf of Zion Lutheran Church, Painesville, Ohio and First Vice-President of the Ohio District, LCMS was the preacher for the occasion.  His sermon topic "The Plan, The Purpose, and the Power of Ministry" was based on Ephesians 4:11-16.  Pastor Shoup served our congregation for one year and then accepted a call to St. Paul Lutheran Church in Bonduel, Wisconsin.

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1998

    Mr. Steve Wentzel was honored for twenty-five years in the Teaching Ministry on Sunday, June 14, 1998.

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1999

    The addition and renovation of the office and workspace areas began on October 1, 1999 and was completed in May of 2000.  Members who served on the Building Committee were:  Brent Damman (Chairman), Pastor Norm Koy, Steve Lankenau, Sharon Vorwerk, Dr. Robert Limbird, Brad Germann, Ron Zachrich, Phil Patton, Roger Sonnenberg, Paul Eggebrecht, and Cheryl Kaiser.  The Buehrer Group from Maumee, Ohio was hired to develop plans for the addition.  3256 square feet of office space and 1560 square feet of basement storage space was gained.  Because of the tremendous labor support by various members we were able to save $25,000.  The labor and financial support were very much appreciated.  The total cost for the project was $560,000.

    Our congregation was offered the opportunity to purchase the Meyer house located on the corner of Glenwood Avenue and Route 6.  The house was purchased for $90,000 and provided a home for Miss Edna Theel until the Lord called her unto Himself on August 24, 2001.

    A Scholarship Endowment Fund was established for St. Paul Lutheran School with the principal to be invested in the Vanguard Money Market Reserves-Prime Portfolio.  The principal of the endowment is not spent.  Income dividends are used to grant tuition scholarships to St. Paul families.

    Our DCE Kurt Mews was called to be Assistant to the Pastors during the pastoral vacancy.  His duties included hospital visitation, nursing home ministries, shut-in visits and Sunday School administration, as well as allowing him to enroll at the Ft. Wayne Seminary.  Mr. Charles Kramer, a 5th grade teacher in our school for nine years, also enrolled in the Seminary at Ft. Wayne.

    Mr. Andy (Harold) Frerich, a 1999 graduate of Concordia, St. Paul Minnesota accepted the call to serve as our new DCE.  He was installed on Sunday, August 22, 1999 along with 3rd grade teacher Jennifer Laubsch, a graduate of Concordia University, River Forest Illinois, and 5th grade teacher Lucas Stoelting, a graduate of Concordia University, Seward Nebraska.  Mrs. Delores Zachrich retired after teaching 1st grade at St. Paul for nine years.  Mrs. Jan Schlade completed her one-year service in the 4th grade.  Midweek School was offered to public school children from Grades 5-8.  Bible Studies, games, worship, music, dinners, and picnics highlighted the year's ministry.  Over 25 children were involved.

    On October 10, 1999 Pastor Koy was honored for twenty-five years in service to the Lord.  The Rev.. Dr. David D. Buegler was the preacher for this special occasion and his sermon, "A Congregational Benediction",  was based on 2 Corinthians 13:11-14.

    The St. Paul Endowment Fund was established to serve our church and God's kingdom by providing a means for individuals and families to give a permanent gift.  The Committee uses only the income from the funds to help finance the work of the church.  The funds are not used to help the daily operation of St. Paul through the Home Fund, but are used for special projects in a variety of areas as needs arise.  Gifting to the endowment can be done in a variety of ways:  by gifts of cash, appreciated stocks, or real estate.  These are immediate gifts that can be made.  Delayed gifts through estate planning and wills also are ways of contributing to the fund.

    St. Paul's total budget, including Missions, reached $1.5 million in 1999-2000.

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2000

    Partner in Ministry (P.I.M.) small group sessions were held with members, one of the Pastors, and a committee member to discuss growth possibilities for Worship, Bible Study, Sunday School, and other areas of concern.  Those who served on the committee were:  John Burns, Tim Frey, Eldon Gerken, Joel Gerken, Lynda Junge, Joe Meyer, Todd Plassman, Pastors Koy and Marcis, and Kurt Mews.

    The Service of Installation for Kari Longmire, Chritina Woelzlein, and Donald Eberle Jr. was held on Sunday, August 20, 2000.  Miss Woelzlein, a graduate of Concordia University, Seward Nebraska was called to fill the vacancy when Mrs. Vicki Wentzel resigned after six years as 7th Grade teacher.  Mr. Eberle was extended a one-year teaching contract by the Board of Education to teach the 5th Grade to replace Lucas Stoelting who accepted a call to serve as resident counselor at St. Paul High School in Concordia, Missouri.  Mrs. Longmire was hired as Part-time Music teacher.  Mrs. Kimberly Kleckner, our Preschool teacher, moved to California at the end of September 2000 when her husband accepted a call to a new congregation.  Mrs. Lisa Creager taught our Preschool from October to the end of the year.  The twenty-fifth anniversary in the teaching ministry of Joanne Doenges was observed on Sunday, September 24, 2000.

    On September 24, 2000 a special presentation was made to Lucille Bell who retired from her position as church secretary after 34 years of faithful service to the Lord.  Cathy Brubaker was hired to replace her.

    The Trustees constructed a new brick entrance at the Woodlawn Avenue driveway; shortened six pews to make them handicap accessible; and made repairs at the house on Woodlawn Avenue

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2001

    The Board of Witness and Outreach completed the Church website.  It can be found online at www.stpaulnapoleon.org

    The Board of Elders recommended alternative worship schedules to encourage families to worship together, to be in the Word through Bible Study and Sunday School; and increase spiritual growth.  Beginning August 26, 2001 the Worship and Bible Class/Sunday School times were changed.  7:45 - 8:45 (Traditional Worship), 9:00 - 10:00 (Traditional Worship and Bible Class/Intergenerational Sunday School) 10:10 - 10:50 (Bible Class/Sunday School) and 11:00 - 12:00 (Informal Worship).

    Mr. Charles Kramer was called to serve as Vicar and then Pastor, starting his Vicarage in March 2001.  His status changed to Pastor at the conclusion of his vicarage.  A service of Ordination and Installation was held on April 7, 2002 at 3:00 p.m. for Pastor-elect Kramer.  The Rev. John Merril of St. John Lutheran Church, Frase, Michigan was the preacher.  His sermon theme "A Shepherd of God's Flock" was based on 1 Peter 5:2-4.  The Rev. Terry Cripe, Third Vice-President of the Ohio District, LCMS. performed the rite.  Pastor Koy served as Liturgist, and Pastor Marcis as Lector.  The service was spiritually uplifting and inspirational.  Pastor Kramer's focus will be on Bible Study along with meeting the needs of the hospitalized and shut-in of our congregation.

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2002

    On Sunday, April 28, 2002, Susan Aschemeier was honored for twenty-five years in the teaching ministry.

    It was our hope that Vicar Kurt Mews would be assigned to our church giving us a Pastoral staff of four.  However, with the shortage of Pastors in the Synod, Vicar Mews was assigned to Concordia Lutheran Church, Youngstown, Ohio.  The Service of Ordination for Pastor-elect Mews was held at St. Paul on Sunday, August 4, 2002.  The sermon, "Am I In The Place of God?" based on Genesis 50:15-19, was delivered by the Rev. Paul A. Weber.  Pastor Koy was the Ordinator, Pastor Marcis the Liturgist, and the Lector was Pastor Donald Luhring of St. John Lutheran Church, Defiance, Ohio.

    Our congregation was approved by the Federal Communications Commission to operate a Christian radio station.  The "call letters" are W.T.P.S., 94.1 on the FM radio dial, which represents Teaching, Preaching, and Sending.  The Lord has given us an opportunity to broadcast Christian messages, sermons, music, church and school activities, as well as community involvement programs.  The station is operated by donations and special gifts, it is not part of the church's operating budget.  We thank Herb Huddle, Roger Jacqua, Bill Meyers, Terry Gasche, and many others who were involved in the setting up of the radio station.

    Several nurses from the congregation agreed to be involved with the Parish Nurse Program.  On April 7, 2002, nurses began offering free blood pressure checks and continue to do so the first Sunday of every month.

    Seminarian Gary Richard was hired to serve our congregation in a part-time ministry.  His duties included:  weekend hospital visits; assist with liturgy; serve as a teacher and substitute teacher for Bible Classes; visit shut-ins, and serve in other ministry needs that occur at St. Paul.  Vicar Richard was assigned to Trinity Lutheran Church in Zanesville, Ohio.

    At the end of the 2001-2002 school year Duane and Kari Longmire accepted a call to Green Bay, Wisconsin after serving at St. Paul for 22 years.  Duane was teaching the 5th Grade and Kari was our Music teacher.  Miss Christina Woelzlein resigned her teaching position to pursue a career in the book publishing industry.  She taught the 7th Grade for two years.  The Voters' Assembly extended a call to Andrew Koehneke to teach the 4th Grade and to Sarah Koehneke to teach the 7th Grade.  Both are graduates of Concordia University, Ann Arbor.  They were installed on August 25th, 2002.

    St. Paul pledged their support of the newly renovated Ohio District LCMS Mission Support Center  in North Olmsted, Ohio in the amount of $50,000.00 over a five-year period.

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2003

    Jennifer Laubsch, 3rd Grade teacher, accepted a call to St. Paul Lutheran School, Cincinnati at the end of the school year.  Don Eberle, 5th Grade, resigned his position also.  The school year ended with 345 students in Preschool through the 8th Grade.

    On August 24, 2003, Paula Harms was installed as 3rd Grade teacher.  Ross Johnson was given a one-year contract to teach the 5th Grade and was also installed on August 24th.

    The house on the corner became the new location for the Youth Group to meet.  It has been named "The Fish Tank".  It has been a real blessing to our church's young people to have a place to hang out and grow in their faith.  Scheduled activities are very well attended.

    Mr. Paul Eggebrecht volunteered to help update the church's website and continues to do so.

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2004

    Joanne Doenges completed her colloquy requirements and was commissioned into the teaching ministry in 2004.

    Our congregation was invited to attend the dedication of the newly remodeled District Offices on Sunday April 24th at 2:30 p.m.  Pastors Weber and Buegler participated in the dedication service.

    An Annual Fund Drive for the school was initiated and Christine Lankenau was appointed to serve as the Chairperson.  The first year proved to be very successful.

    Vicar Gary Richard was Ordained and Installed as Associate Pastor at Trinity Lutheran Church in Zanesville, Ohio on September 4, 2004.

    A Service of Appreciation for the Rev. Peter C. Marcis was held on Sunday September 26, 2004.  Pastor Marcis was honored for 10 years of serving the Lord at St. Paul.  The theme of Pastor Koy's sermon was "Receiving Through Giving", based on Luke 6:38.

    The replacement of lights and dimmer system in the nave was completed as well as the installation of new exterior lighting and emergency exit lighting.  Also brighter, more efficient, dimmable replacement fixtures were purchased for the narthex.  We thank our donor for the generous gift that made this project possible and to Bret Speiser from Speiser and Sons Electric and Stephen Crandall from Innovative Lighting Systems for their time and talents in bringing this project to completion.  A donation  was received for the purchase and installation of a computer-driven permanent projector and drop-down screen for the front of the church.  It is used to enhance our worship experience with announcements, Informal Worship song lyrics, visual aids for special services, and on-line video of the Children's Christmas programs.

    Several members of the congregation have been meeting during the past year to assemble ideas for the celebration of St. Paul's 150th year of ministry in Napoleon.  Plans were finalized in 2005 to begin the observation of this milestone in 2006.

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2005

    Seminarian Larry Yaw, a member of our congregation, received his vicarage placement to serve at Redeemer Lutheran Church, Bartlesville, Oklahoma.  He will be a vicar for one year before returning to the Seminary to complete his final year of preparation for the ministry.

    After 16 years as the voice of "Message Of Hope", Todd Plassman decided to step down.  Todd volunteered his time each week to put the program together.  His time and talents were greatly appreciated.  On May 1st 2005, Ron and Vicki Roth began the duties of putting the program together.

    Pastor Norm Koy accepted the call extended him by Trinity Lutheran Church, Utica, Michigan after 18 years of faithfully serving the Lord at St. Paul.  The Congregational Assembly granted his a peaceful release.  A service of appreciation for Pastor Koy was held on Sunday May 29th 2005.  The topic of his farewell sermon, "Remember", was based on Deuteronomy 11:18-21,26-28.  A noon lunch was held in the gym and was attended by many members of St. Paul as well as members of the community.  The congregation passed a motion to have Pastor Marcis serve as Interim Administrative Pastor.  The Rev. Gary Bernath, who had recently retired as full-time Pastor and move to Napoleon, was hired to assist with hospital calls, shut-in visits, preaching, and Bible Studies duties during the Pastoral vacancy.

    Mr. Ron Bahler was hired as the Financial Administrator.  He will be responsible for the daily financial operations of the church and the school.

    In August of 2005, one of our teachers, Miss Paula Harms, along with members Ron, Steve, and Fulton Lankenau, joined up with members of St. John Lutheran Church in Ellisville, Missouri and Lutheran Hour Ministries for a Mission trip to Kenya.  They spent three weeks implementing a Vacation Bible School for 400 Christian and non-Christian children.  They were also involved in constructing a floor for a church as well as repairs that needed to be done in order to assist the ministries taking place there.

    The membership of St. Paul numbered 2998 baptized souls, and 2329 communicant members.

    The staff/faculty  members at this time are:  Pastor Peter C. Marcis; Pastor Charles E. Kramer; Principal Steve Wentzel; DCE Andy Frerich; Parish Worker Vicki Roth; Director of Discipleship Lou Ann Limbird; John Hammon; David Stuebe; Sarah Koehneke; Pat Kramer; Ron Roth; Paul Eggebrecht; Andy Koehneke; Joanne Doenges; Tami Sundermann; Paul Harms; Marian Yoder; Marcia Kern; Stephanie Eggebrecht; Carol Pelltier; Susan Aschemeier; Lisa Creager; Jane Meyer; Secretary Cathy Brubaker; Secretary Ruth Ann VonDeylen: Secretary Sharon Vorwerk; Secretary Elaine Hammon; Secretary Sue Ann Junge; Secretary Pat Badenhop; Custodian Ken Witte; Custodian Jack Robbins; and Custodian Julie Lerch.

    The history of St. Paul is an account of Christ's mercies abundantly bestowed upon His church.  It reveals in every event the guidance and blessings our Heavenly Father bestows to us, His people.  In it's history, not the merits, efforts, sacrifice and achievements of men are to be extolled, but solely the great mercy of God.  To God therefore, be all the glory and honor.

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    We thank Mrs. Richard (Lucille) Bell for compiling the history of our church from 1982 to 2005.  Her time and efforts are most appreciated.