WELCOME to Eksjo this lovely morning as we celebrate 150 years of Faith, Family, and Fellowship. The writers of Eksjo’s history found in the 100th and 125th booklets did an amazing
job of research. These are some of their findings. Many of the early pioneers who came to the Midwest were Lutherans. These early settlers became responsible for planting the Lutheran church in America. In the fall of 1871, the Minnesota Conference of the Evangelical Lutheran
Church- Augustana Synod sent Pastor J. Magny to the Lake Park area to organize a congregation for the Swedish immigrants here. On October 16, 1871, a special meeting was held at the O.B. Anderson home, a log house in rural Lake Park. **Attending were seven families, one single young woman, and ten single young men. Together they formed the Eksjo congregation. The first church was built in 1878, a wood frame structure 30 feet long by 24 feet wide. The membership at the time was 100 adults and 150 children. Construction on the church we are in now, which was built behind the old church, was begun in 1901 and dedicated on July 2, 1902. Swedish was the only language spoken for services until 1927 when one English service per month was started. Though our background is Swedish, we no longer are all of Swedish descent. We are a melding together of many of God’s people. This is what we celebrate today- our 150 year history and our continued desire to give “Glory to God in the Highest,” as is written in Swedish on the wall above the altar- “Ara vare God i hojden.” We do this in so many ways: our Sunday morning worship, our Sunday School classes, our Confirmation classes and Bible study groups, our Angel Food project, and our various donations to local and global missions. For example, today there is a basket by the front door for donations of new socks for those in need, and there’s a smaller basket on the kitchen counter for cash donations to send Christmas care packages to our deployed military people.
This is always our mission: Standing in God’s grace, we seek to be the hands and feet of Christ in our community and in our world. “Tusen Tack,” which is Swedish for a thousand thanks, for being a part of today’s celebration.
** FOUNDING FAMILIES:
A constitution was adopted with seven families, one young woman and ten young men forming the congregation: They were: Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Anderson, Christina, Hulda, Carl D. and Anders Gustaf; Mr. and Mrs. Olaf B. Anderson, Carl O. and Katrin; Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Axberg; Mr. and Mrs. Carl Magnus Carlson, Frank, Johanna, John Olof and Axel (they later helped organize the Highland Grove Church); Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Danielson, Carl O., John August, and Edwin; Mr. and Mrs. Anders Nelson, Erick Anderson, Noah Anderson, Mathilda; Mr. and Mrs. Nels Nelson, Christine, Anna, and Nils. The ten young men were: John Backman, Carl Erickson, Peder Hanson, Anders Hedlund, Lars Larson, Magnus Lindstrom, John Sandgren, Nels Swanstrom, Olaf Swanstrom, and J.A. Teg. The young woman was Maria Kasja Swenson, who later married Carl Olaf Danielson.
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In January of 1888 a resolution was passed to build a foundation under the wood frame structure that was the Eksjo church building at the time. There must have been financial problems because members were required to contribute every Sunday, and the first Sunday offering always went to Missions. The dues were set at $4 for men and $3 for women PER YEAR! There was no explanation as to how this was enforced. Another interesting happening is noted for 1889. There were three months of week day school in May, June, and July. Was this like an extended Sunday School class, or was it teaching of the three R’s? No explanation given. Eksjo’s first auxiliary organization was the Ladies Aid, which faithfully assisted in the work of the church for decades. In 1889 the Young People’s Society, later called the Luther League, was organized. Starting in 1890 the Eksjo pastor’s job was also to serve the Highland Grove congregation. In this same year, the Young People’s Society donated the church bell that we still use today. Again, there was no explanation as to how this group raised money. The decade moved on, and the congregation outgrew the wooden building. In 1899 building plans were made with the contract for construction of our present building going to a company from Moorhead for $7,395! The new church building was set right behind the old one, so services continued during construction. When the beautiful new brick building was dedicated on July 2, 1902, there were 800-1200 people present. A glorious celebration was held. (Information from the 125th booklet.)
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Eksjo, which means “Oak Lake” in Swedish, began the 20th Century praising God in our beautiful red pressed brick building with its exquisite stained glass windows. In 1909 a parsonage was purchased in Lake Park. According to the history portion of the 125th booklet, all grave lots were now to be recorded, with lots nearer the church higher priced. In 1910 the Sunday School was organized and two months of Swedish School were set for summer. Again, there were no details as to what was to be taught at Swedish School. In 1911, it was noted that after generous donations to support the Augustana Synod and the Minnesota Conference, the total Eksjo income for the first 40 years was $42,540.78! In the next years when financial obligations weren’t always met, many farmers said high real estate taxes were to blame for their inability to contribute. When funds ran low, the Luther League and Ladies’ Aid often helped. For example, in 1916 the Luther League purchased a piano for $250. Fears became reality when the U.S. entered WW I in 1917. Eighteen of Eksjo’s young men were called to serve, and, tragically, two lost their lives. Much prayer was needed during these troubled and anxious days. The “Roaring Twenties” were not quite so roaring at Eksjo. In 1923, Hulda Backman, who played a pump organ in the balcony, and the janitor, Justin Johnson, received $85/year. In 1924 when funds were still a problem, a general clean-up day was planned. Each member was to help OR pay $2! The ladies served coffee. Pastor Lehart proclaimed, “And we pay for the coffee and treats.” Until 1927 all Eksjo services were in Swedish. That year one English language service per month was initiated. The pastor’s yearly salary was $1,200 plus free room and board at the parsonage. In this year also, instead of the usual annual set dues ($7-men and $5-women), the pledge system was implemented. Another change came in 1930 when church council secretary, John Olson, Sr., began writing the minutes in English. Then came the Great Depression.
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In the early 1930’s, due to the Depression and drought, Pastor Roger Anderson, who was
married to Marion Olson from Eksjo, offered to take a 10% cut in salary. In appreciation, the board gave him a month’s vacation. As stated in the 125th booklet, membership grew during this decade of despair to 341. Surely people needed to worship our never changing God, who offers hope to all. The 40’s were difficult times, both physically and mentally, as WW II took the lives of two more young men from Eksjo. May we never forget their sacrifice. A Brotherhood of men was begun. They sponsored many events such as activities for the Youth Group, a Valentine’s dinner for the ladies, and fish fries, which were enjoyed by all. A pipe organ fund was started in 1946, and in 1950 a Reuter Pipe Organ was installed. Lloyd Nelson was the first organist to add the organ’s beautiful music to the worship service. Also in 1950, master carpenter Art Rosell and a number of volunteers built a new parsonage. A big step toward modernizing the church building was taken in 1954 when a new water system was installed by August Nelson, Jr. Indoor restrooms were constructed by Art Rosell. The convenience of these updates was much appreciated. Pastor Virgil Anderson accepted the call and held his first service at Eksjo in February of 1960. He was instrumental in starting an altar guild and forming a parish choir. In 1962 Eksjo members voted to accept the Strandvik congregation into the parish. Thus the Gloria Dei Parish was born. It was voted that as a parish we would give 30% of our weekly offering to the synod. In 1963 Lucille Swenson, a daughter of the parish, was installed as our parish worker and served in that capacity until in December of 1967 when she left to join a medical team in Nigeria. Also in 1967 Pastor LeRoy Erlandson and his family joined us, and a part time secretary was hired. “Thanks to all our secretaries over the decades who have been valuable administrative assistants to our pastors.” Our membership now stood at 216.
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In 1971 the Eksjo congregation celebrated its Centennial. Pastor Elmer Johnson gave a sermon in Swedish, and Pastors Roger L. Anderson and Virgil Anderson also spoke. Festivities were well attended. In March of 1974 Pastor Don Homme and Ruth plus their two daughters, Gretchen and Katy, moved to Lake Park to serve the Gloria Dei Parish for the next 25 years. Pastor asked members of the congregation to serve as scripture readers, and we continue this practice still in 2022. After Lloyd Nelson retired as organist in 1978, he was followed by Mercedes Roos and many other musically talented Eksjo members. In 1979 The Lutheran Book of Worship was introduced, according to the 125th booklet. In the 80’s Pastor Homme kept very busy with
activities in all three churches. He was also involved with the White Earth Bible Camp. Many Eksjo young people had memorable, spirit-filled experiences at that camp. One major accomplishment in 1983 was the new addition, designed by architect and confirmed member of Eksjo, Darrel Anderson. Many volunteers also contributed hours of their time and talents to this project, which added Sunday School space, ground level entry to the church, handicap accessible bathrooms, altar guild storage, and one of the finest kitchens around. We thank all the custodians over the years, who have faithfully tended to our church facility. We remember with thanks our longest serving custodial family, the Olson’s- Lyla and her daughters LaDon and Jean. During this time there were many significant memorial donations that provided such things as a new well, a commercial dish washer, and a new entrance door. All these memorial gifts were and still are gratefully received. The Men’s Group continued to be active during this time. In particular
their Easter breakfast was a treat, and the Beef Dinner and Talent Show with Rick Olson and Paul Rustad as the hilarious co-hosts, was looked forward to by many. Marlene Johnson was always an entertaining participant. The women of the church continued to serve meals for multiple occasions, sew quilts and provide clothing for Lutheran World Relief, and give monetary gifts to various missions at home and around the world.
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We continue with the history of our congregation in the year 1984 when we began to have “coffee time” after services, a time when members could greet each other, and visitors could be warmly welcomed. In Pastor Home’s annual report for 1985, we were reminded that it is part of our responsibility to invite those who are not involved with a church family to become part of our church community, “We are only a part of the greater body of Christ. We are blessed because we are counted by God as His own.” In 1986 our Thanksgiving service with Lake Park Lutheran and St. Francis Xavier was an ecumenical treat. Vic Lindstrom must be mentioned in a history of Eksjo. In the mid-80’s he compiled a detailed, updated book of the Eksjo cemetery, which was much appreciated. The Evangelical Church in America came into being in 1987. The circles were disbanded, and the women’s organization was now WELCA. In 1989 the congregation voted to allow children to partake of communion as 3rd graders after taking a short class on the meaning of this sacrament. As more and more significant memorial donations were received, like the electric chair lift, the writer of the 125th year history booklet noted this: “When the church building needs attention, and improvements are made, we can easily see the results. It is not always easy to measure spiritual growth; therefore, we should always be aware of ways to grow in spirit, in faith, and in ways of ministering to each other.” Amen
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1990 was the last year of debt in connection with our building. Care has been taken over the years to keep the original architecture in mind as many people have faithfully labored to maintain our place of worship, but it’s the faith and heart of the Eksjo family that we celebrate. Pastor Homme said it well in the 125th booklet, page 37, “We thank you all for your participation in the life of Eksjo Lutheran Church. May we pray daily that we might follow our Lord a bit closer, and, like Him, grow in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man.” Again in this decade many excellent memorials were received from loving families. For example, Maureen Helgeson began a scholarship fund in memory of her husband, Tillman, and still in 2022 we give two $500 scholarships yearly to members meeting the criteria. Memorials are a wonderful way to remember a loved one. Both the Sunday School, VBS and Youth Group were very active during these years. Sincere thanks to the teachers and leaders over the decades, who are too numerous to mention. The annual Sunday School Christmas program has always been enjoyed, especially by grandparents! Besides monthly meetings, the Youth Group in this decade was very active. For example, they visited a Jewish synagogue in Fargo, a Catholic church in Moorhead, and a Baptist church in the heart of Minneapolis. They also helped pack food baskets at a shelter in the Cities and worked with Salvation Army volunteers during the 1997 flood in Fargo. They certainly were learning that while we are proud and enjoy our church facilities, we cannot forget that our main purpose is to be about our Father’s business. The 125th anniversary celebration was held in 1996 with events such as an organ concert, a Santa Lucia Festival, and a Christmas concert presented by the Lake Park Community Choir. All were well attended and enjoyed. Throughout this decade and beyond, the Memorial Gardens received accolades from members and visitors alike with Marlys Nelson in charge. In 1999 Pastor Homme retired after 25 years of faithful service, Eksjo’s longest serving pastor.
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The first two decades of the 21st century have been memorable. We have had several pastoral changes: David Hurt (1999- 2001), Randy Whitehead (2001- 2016), Laurie Albertson
(co-pastor 2015- 2018), Roy Noel (2015- present). Sadly, one of our Gloria Dei partner churches, Highland Grove, closed July 1, 2007. Houglum joined the parish in 2007, but like many other small country churches, they too had to close in 2013. At Eksjo a stained glass window replacement project began in 2004 and was completed in 2006 with many families donating to have name plates on the windows in memory of loved ones. Youth Group (renamed OGRE for Our God Reigns at Eksjo) was very active from 2001 – 2016. There were monthly meetings, service projects, and mission trips to New York City (2012), North Carolina (2015), and Puerto Rico (2016). Thanks to all the parent chaperones on these eye opening and faith building trips. Another group for the younger members of Eksjo was FBI (Faith Builders Inc.) a weekly
K-6th grade after school program active from 2007- 2017. Lots of Bible stories were read and acted out, art projects were completed, and delicious lunches were served. Again, thanks to all the volunteer helpers. The ELCA National Youth Gathering in Houston, Texas, in August 2018 was attended by several of our young teens and parent chaperones. “This Changes Everything” was the theme, and it was a positive experience for the attendees. What were the adults doing during these years when the younger members were learning and growing? Well, from 2007 -17 many were picking and selling donated sweet corn- thanks to John Francis. Another adult project was started in 2012- the well-loved Angel Food project. Food was donated and meals were packed and delivered to area residents who needed and appreciated home cooked meals and treats. Angel Food is still being delivered. Thanks to all the good cooks at Eksjo! Quilting has been an activity at Eksjo for years. Lead quilters over the decades include Olga Berg, Inez Larson, and Jean Anderson. Thanks to all the quilters for sharing their talent to warm the homes and hearts of so many. One adult and young person activity began in 2015 as a much needed fund raiser- serving breakfast and lunch at Rollag’s WMSTR Sunday and Monday of Labor Day weekend. Lots of helpers, young and old, were needed for this adventure. “Tusen Tack” to all the volunteers.
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| Outdoor Baptism during COVID Evelyn Jo Latham (Great Granddaughter of Jean Anderson) |
Because of the closings of partner churches in our parish, in 2015 dedicated members, synod representatives, and clergy from several area churches discussed, over the course of many meetings, how to share the Gospel message and efficiently share individual church resources.
On February 1, 2015, the Lakes Area Ministry Partnership was born, including the following congregations: Augustana, Eksjo, Grace (membership voted to withdraw in 2010), Immanuel (withdrew from the synod in 2019), and Strandvik (closed on January 31, 2016). So, we continue as a two church parish. In September of 2017, David Larson, a lifetime member of Eksjo, passed away and left Eksjo a very generous bequest. We continue to work diligently to use that gift wisely in honor of David. Also in this time period we dealt with COVID 19, which closed down our entire country in March of 2020. For us that meant worshipping at home until Easter Sunday of that year when we had our first outdoor service. We sat in our cars tuning into a radio station over which our service was broadcast. Pastor Roy stood outside in his parka, and our organist, Roberta Chatham, was inside the front door, playing hymns on the keyboard. As the weather warmed, many brought chairs and sat outside. There was even an outdoor baptism. As the weather grew colder again we moved inside, wearing masks, using hand sanitizer, and practicing social distancing as much as possible. Our service was also streamed live on Facebook, and many people continue to watch this service. No coffee was served after church and no Sunday School classes met until the fall of 2021, but we did have beautiful Live Nativity scenes, both for Christmas 2020 and 2021. Thanks to all the volunteers (people and animals) who braved the elements, so the public could drive through and view the beautiful story of Christmas. So, as we end our 150 year celebration, we remember all those who have gone before us as members of Eksjo Lutheran Church. May we continue to worship our loving God as they did with faith, family, and fellowship.