Opening Remarks Chris Harrison
History, Purpose and Significance of the Bell
Thanks to Rob Teall and all who have worked so hard to bring this day about.
Prayer of Dedication
-Heavenly Father,
We gather here today in gratitude and joy to dedicate this bell tower, a symbol of our faith, hope, and commitment to Your service. We thank You for the generosity and hard work of all who have made this project possible. May this bell tower stand as a beacon of Your love in our community.
Lord, we ask that You bless this bell tower. May it ring out with joy and peace, calling all people to worship, reflection, and celebration. Let its sound inspire harmony and unity among all who hear it, drawing them closer to You and to one another.
As the bells toll, may they remind us of our calling to live out the teachings of Christ, sharing Your light and love with all those around us. Help us to be a welcoming church, just as Your arms embrace us.
May the dedication of this bell tower serve to strengthen our faith and commitment to serving our community, reaching out to those in need, and spreading the Good News.
We dedicate this bell tower to You, Lord, trusting that it will be a source of hope and inspiration for generations to come.
In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen.
Ringing of the Bells
Closing Remarks
Luncheon Invitation and Prayer
Historical Sketch
From the dedication on June 5, 1955
The church we dedicate today is the third structure which the Zion Congregation has built in the past 97 years. The first cornerstone was laid August 29, 1858, in which the Reformed and Lutherans participated, worshiping as a joint congregation. In the year 1867, Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church was organized by the Rev. R.F. Delo of Elkhart. This structure was remodeled and dedicated Sunday, September 2, 1906, under the leadership of the Rev. J. A. Burkett who was then pastor.
In 1947, more room was needed and it was dedicated to elevate the church and place under it a full and completely modern basement. The Rev. J. D. Brosy, who gave more than 30 years of service to Zion, served as pastor at that time. While the work was in progress a windstorm swept the community and the church fell from its blocking and into the excavation on November 7, 1947 and it was damaged beyond repair. Under the pastorate of the Rev. Paul L. Schmiedel, who served from 1948 until April, 1954, the cornerstone for a new church was laid on April 10, 1949 and near completion when it was destroyed by fire on January 28, 1951. Plans were immediately made to rebuild the church and the third cornerstone was laid on July 25, 1951.
Following Pastor Schmiedel’s resignation the parish was served by student pastors from Chicago Lutheran Seminary. At the present time the Rev. Donald M. Dow serves as pastor.
Through all our problems and difficulties the Rev. Dr. Fred M. Hanes, president of the Indiana Synod, United Lutheran Church, has been a constant help and inspiration. On this day of dedication an unsurpassed dream has been realized. Beyond the beauty of an inspiring church structure is the radiant, ever-challenging diving truth that God and His Spirit are over all and above and beyond the material. This church will stand throughout the years as an emblem of faith and witness to God’s love. We pray that it may provide help and strength for all who pass this way.