In 1917 a group of 12 men attending a convention of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, met to retire a $100,000 debt incurred by the church body. They retired the debt and, in the process, formed the Lutheran Laymen's League (LLL).

The LLL is an organization of people with a love for the Lord; people who are mission and outreach-minded. Their main goal has always been "Bringing Christ to the Nations ~ and the Nations to the Church."

In pursuit of their goal, the LLL made a commitment in 1930 to fund one-year of broadcasting a new, weekly, nationwide radio program called "The Lutheran Hour." The first program was broadcast on October 2, 1930. Except for a hiatus from 1931-1934 radio ministry has remained on the air for the past 65 years.

The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod ventured into television in 1952 with a dramatic series entitled "This is the Life". The LLL became cosponsor of this television ministry in 1967 and accepted complete responsibility for the ministry in 1979. Because of the popularity of "The Lutheran Hour" radio program, the International Lutheran Laymen's League chose "Lutheran Hour Ministries" as the overall designation for its programs in 1992.

Dr. Walter A. Maier was the first speaker of "The Lutheran Hour", Dr. Oswald C.J. Hoffman was speaker from 1955-1988, and Dr. Dale A. Meyer and Dr. Wallace Schultz presently serve as the speakers.

The Iowa District West Lutheran Laymen's League was formed in 1945 and the first district president was Howard H. Hansen, formerly of Manning.

Formation of Zion Lutheran Laymen's League at Manning took place March 1, 1954. Zone and district officers of IDW attended the organizational meeting held in the basement of church. They explained the aims, purposes and work of the national group.

Twenty-eight men signed as charter members of the local group. Officers elected were A.H. Sanders, president; Ross Graner, vice president; Ed Knaack, secretary; and Herman Musfeldt, treasurer. Pastor J.M. Ansorge served as a member of the board.

Presently, the LLL continues its sponsorship of "The Lutheran Hour" radio program, "This is the Life" television ministry, and a number of other programs. Zion's LLL has approximately 70 national memberships, of which 20 are active memberships.

Members meet monthly September through May. An annual potluck is held at Christmas and a soup supper is held each March.

Members also attend zone rallies held in the spring and fall, and each June the IDW-LLL holds convention at Camp Okoboji.

Projects that Zion LLL members support include the "Orphan Grain Train", Camp Okoboji, the Tournament of Roses float, youth trips, "The Lutheran Hour" and many others.

Present officers of Zion's LLL are Walter Lage, president; Ardith Lage, secretary; and Joan Mohr, treasurer. Local meetings include a topic presented by Pastor Vogel or Dwyer, a short meeting, lunch and fellowship. Members of Zion are invited to become LLL members.

Plans to volunteer in a general clean-up, fix-up and paint-up project for the parsonage were approved Monday night at the regular meeting of Zion Lutheran Laymen's League. The group offered its collective services to the board of trustees in getting the work done this spring. Trustees Barney Neubaum and Melvin Wolfe will be in charge of the project. They will determine the extent of the work and plan dates for action.

Twenty guests were present at the meeting attended by more than 60 men. The meeting culminated a "new member" contest with Walt Lage's team winning over Arlo Pfannkuch's group.

Walther League

When young Lutherans organized themselves in 1893, they gained a sense of belonging. Choosing the name Die Walther Liga distinguished the Lutheran young people from others around them. The name was significant since C.F.W. Walther had overseen the founding of the first young people's society among Lutherans anywhere in North America. At that time it was an International Association of Young Peoples Societies within the congregations of the Lutheran Synodical Conference. The association included the Synod of Wisconsin, Slovak Evangelical Lutheran. Church, Norwegian Synod, American Evangelical Lutheran Church and the Missouri Synod.

The league provided an occasion for fellowship and conversation, but young people, then as now, did not always have the resolve to stick to the task. Therefore, clear requirements were needed for membership. "If a member gives offense through open sins, through drunkenness, attendance at bars, or by exhibiting a heretical mind, he shall be expelled." In spite of these restrictions, which were difficult to enforce, the Walther League survived.

During World War I, Missouri Synod Youth raised nearly one-half million dollars to bring the Means of Grace to servicemen. The Walther League distributed 80,000 hymnals, 12,000 Bibles and 260,000 tracts. The balance of the money was transferred to the church Extension Fund in the 1920 Convention of Synod.

The Iowa District organized in 1920. They joined with Minnesota and held rallies at Okoboji starting in 1923 renting camps from the Methodist and the Y.W.C.A. Guests coming by train would commonly choose to stop at Arnolds Park, and from there, take a steamer to the camp.

In 1937 the Iowa District divided into Iowa East and Iowa West. The first Iowa West Convention was held in Council Bluffs in 1939. In 1940 they made final payment on the $15,000.00 Y.M.C.A. Camp, now known as Camp Okoboji.

One of the chief projects of the Walther League was the annual sale of Wheat Ridge Seals to help support the Wheat Ridge Sanitarium near Denver, Colorado. Other projects and events included an annual convention, talent festivals, service volunteer schools, summer camps, and sports festivals. In 1935 there were 99 Walther League Societies in Iowa West.

The office of President of Iowa West was served by ministers until 1948 when Eunice Hermann Hanusa, a secretary and editor of a monthly paper, was elected as the first lay person to hold that office.

The Walther League at Zion began in 1920, made up of young people of the church. The main objective of the league was to keep the confirmed youth active in the church with Bible study at the top of the list.

Other activities included Christmas caroling for the sick, old and shut-in. Join-ing with other choirs, the youths would sing in as many as fifty homes in an af-ternoon and eve-ning. Many still remember the pleasure it pro-vided for the older people as well as the singers.

Zion's Walther Leaguers raised $300.00 to purchase a piano for the church and raised $2,550.00 to purchase the first pipe organ for Zion when the church was built on Second Street in 1921.

Walther League officers in 1921 were Catherine Brunnier, president; Carl Gruhn, vice president; Marie Hammer, secretary; and Herman Pahde, treasurer.

During the early years, most people stayed active in the league until they were married. Toward the late 1950s the group became more of a high school organization.

Manning youths would fellowship with other leagues in the Carroll Zone by attending field days in Carroll. One such field day, held in August of 1948, drew an attendance of 225 youths. Lake City was winner of the day's competition and Man-ning took second place.

Taking part in some of the contests were: Leroy Kienast in the 440 dash; Maynard Kienast in the mile run; Royce Rowedder taking first in the 100 yard dash; Walt Lage in the broad jump; Elmer Kienast in discus and shot put. The Manning girls took first place in the volleyball competition and, following supper, everyone went roller-skating.

While the organization was consid-ered to be good training for young people to be involved with the work of the church, a pastor who did not favor the group stated that Walther League was nothing but a marriage bureau. To this statement another pastor responded that if that is all the league would be, he would thank God for it because it was acquainting young people with others of the Lutheran faith.

Two Zion couples that married after meeting through Walther League are Russell and Joan Mohr and Walt and Ardith Lage. The Lages met at a Walther League Convention.

On November 10, 1991, a group of 24 former Walther Leaguers of Iowa District West gathered at Tony's Restaurant in Carroll and formed the Walther League Alumni Group which continues to meet each year in September. In remembrance, the group donated a stained glass window for the Christian Life Center at Camp Okoboji.

The Manning Rotary Club, seeking to analyze the problem of a youth program in the Manning area, recently asked representatives of Zion Church's Walther League to present an outline of their youth program at a regular meeting of the Rotarians, with suggestions about the successful operation of such a program.

Zion's youth program was outlined under three parts by three representatives of the congregation: Rev. G.B. Eschenbacher, pastor; Mr. Kenneth Puck, zone Walter League president and a member of Manning's society; and Vicar Robert Tewes. It was pointed out that the chief emphasis in a youth program should be upon the needs and desires of the young people.

It was emphasized that in order to have an effective youth program there must first of all be a sincere interest displayed on the part of the parents, thus giving the youth a definite feeling of responsibility. But it was further pointed out that this alone is not enough. Young people desire and need guidance from adults. This does not mean a policing, but rather a knowledge on the part of the youth that adult leadership and guidance are available as resource references.

The final point made was that in order to carry out a truly effective youth program it must above all else be Christ-centered. This will give the youth of today that security which is not to be had without Him - which is especially important in this age of insecurity.

The program was very well received by all who were in attendance, thus again illustrating the wonderful blessing that God has showered upon us in the Walther League.

The early 1960s found Zion's vicars leading the Walther Leaguers. Meetings were held in the church basement twice a month. One meeting was for Bible study and the other meeting was for fellowship activities such as volleyball tournaments, roller skating and hay rides. Circuit rallies were held twice a year and a live nativity was presented by the youths at Christmas for several years.

By the late 1960s Manning had close to 90 Walther League members. In 1968 the constitution was changed drastically. The high school age group turned toward issues of hunger, poverty, racism and international developments.

At the Denver Convention of Synod in 1969 youth were given a greater role in the decision making process. At that time the youth group name, which for a short time had been Lutheran Youth for Christ (LYC), was changed to Lutheran Youth Fellowship (LYF).

Since the organization of Zion's LYF, leadership and activities of the group have varied. However, fellowship, Bible study, and serving the Lord remain constant objectives.

Some of the best remembered activities over the years involve those very objectives.

In August of 1974, about 20 Manning youths and three youths from Arcadia, Iowa, traveled to Houston, Texas, to attend the National Youth Convention which was held in the recently built astrodome. The group traveled in a chartered bus and stayed overnight in Oklahoma. At the convention the group listened to Christian speakers, watched films and attended fellowship activities in the dome. They also had fun swimming in the hotel pool, and visiting the Alamo and the Gulf of Mexico at Galveston.

The youths funded their trip by holding a slave auction and picking up cans in road ditches. Warren Puck, Sue Puck, Ken Puck and Joelle Puck were Zion's youth counselors.

In the summer of 1980 the Shelby County Lake Matino was the setting for a youth weekend retreat. Tim and Joni Kienast were serving as counselors for the LYF group at this time. There was no swimming allowed in the lake so the group participated in several mixers, sing-alongs and Bible studies. Barb and Bob Genzen brought their big Army tent, plus there were several smaller ones. Around the campfire the group made s'mores and sang songs with Rhonda Mohr, Philip Heinicke and John Bunz leading. Rhonda Mohr recalls that she was just learning to play the guitar. On Sunday Pastor Heinicke joined the group at the lake to conduct an outdoor worship service with Holy Communion. One of Rhonda's distinct memories was how Pastor Heinicke took an axe and made three crosses on a huge stump creating an altar and placing the communion ware there. Pastor made it a special service for us, she said.

Carroll Zone Volleyball Tourna-ments were hosted annually by Zion in Manning for several years. Two courts were set up in the fellowship hall. Sometimes the volleyballs would fly fast and furious. Many enjoyed this event.

The Iowa District West started to hold youth gatherings in the mid-1980s. The retreat for youth was, and continues to be, held annually over the Thanksgiving weekend. In 1984 the event was an extra day in length due to a heavy snow storm. No one was allowed to leave since the interstate highways were closed. There were some teary-eyed girls that were anxious to get home, but by Sunday night everyone was having fun and enjoying a sing-along led by Terry Dittmer.

Many LYFers have memories of Youth Week at Camp Okoboji. It would be impossible to know how many of those experiences have influenced the lives of both campers and counselors.

A 1985 weekend at Lake Okoboji is one of the outings recalled by Tim Kienast. The group spent two days and one night at the Lutheran camp. The group had topic discussions and Bible studies, many of which were led by Rhonda Mohr. Swimming and basketball on the beach were enjoyed. The group stayed in two cabins, but not much sleep is recalled as a couple of the boys sneaked out and enjoyed scaring the girls.

Rhonda Mohr talked about how much she enjoyed youth Bible class on Sunday mornings because of Ken Puck. She recalled how Ken would play his guitar and lead the class in song before the lesson. One of the songs that stood out in her mind was "Lion of Judah."

Tim and Joni Kienast continued to work with Zion's youth until 1987. DCE Paula Weiss, who assisted with the youth upon her arrival at Zion in 1984, continued to lead the group. Bary Kienast became an LYF leader in 1988.

One of the annual events started by Paula Weiss was a lock-in at the church on a Saturday night. Many LYFers would participate and use it as an opportunity to draw other youths into Christian fellowship. The youths would take part in Bible study, games, discussions, eating a variety of goodies and only a couple of hours of sleep, as that was all that Paula's scheduled allowed. Some didn't sleep at all.

Activities of the LYF increased in 1985 as the group started earning money for a trip to Washington D.C. planned for 1986. Suddenly there was wrapping paper for sale, valentine cookie and pizza sales. Zion's members were asked to support a spaghetti supper, car washes and raffles to help the youth earn their way. One big event was the production of a dinner theatre under the direction of Paula and Pastor Krumm. Members of the troupe, called the "Son Shine Players" presented several skits to the members of Zion, and also to the congregations at Wall Lake and Adair, Iowa. The troupe later learned that they were to perform in Washington D.C. as one of the youth presentations

On July 31, 1986, a group of 18 young people from Zion, accompanied by Pastor Krumm , headed for Washington, D.C., to be part of the 15,000 students attending the LC-MS National Youth Gathering. The event provided numerous memorable and faith-lifting experiences for the youths.

Events focused on justice, freedom and mercy. At a gathering held at the Washington Monument, speakers challenged the youths to work for justice for all including the unborn, disabled and the world's poor and hungry. Thousands of students then "walked for justice" from the Washington Monument to the Lincoln Memorial where a service was held around the reflecting pool.

Participation in the national gatherings, which have since been held every three years, has become one of the LYFers regular activities.

In 1989 Pastor Riggert, Paula Weiss and Bary Kienast accompanied 12 members of Zion’s LYF to Denver, Colorado, to take part in the National Youth Gathering. The theme for the gathering was " Blessed in the Journey". In addition to the overwhelming experience of communing with thousands of other Christian youth, one of the more memorable aspects of this trip was attending a concert at Red Rocks amphitheater and being caught in a terrible rain/thunder storm. The entire gathering was a "mountain top" experience.

In 1992, 20 LFYers, Paula Weiss, Bary Kienast and Pastor Riggert traveled to New Orleans, Louisiana, for "A Time for Joy" youth gathering. More than 25,000 Lutheran youth descended on New Orleans into a Christian setting. Shop keepers made comments in the local papers about the positive atmosphere the gathering created. The group worshipped in the Superdome, home of the New Orleans Saints and participated in activities in the Convention Center. The gathering held a celebration, New Orleans style, on the banks of the mighty Mississippi. A trip to the Gulf of Mexico and to a plantation home were also enjoyed.

In January of 1995, Karen Reinke became involved with Zion's LYF. She agreed to go with the group to San Antonio, Texas, the following summer. She has remained active with the group ever since.

Paula Weiss was invited to serve on one of the committees for the San Antonio National Youth Gathering in 1995, when 29 youth from Zion, along with Pastor Riggert, Bary Kienast and Karen Reinke, made the journey to Texas. "The River of Light" was the theme for the gathering. The Riverwalk provided a beautiful setting for the gathering. From their hotel, the Manning group could easily walk to the Alamodome, the Convention Center, the Alamo and the Rivercenter Mall.

A highlight of the 1995 trip was when the group stopped at the sight of the 1994 Oklahoma City bombing. It was a sobering sight to see some of the destruction of the blast and all of the flowers and memorials that were there. The group also took a day and headed to the beach of the Gulf of Mexico. The youth commented on what an awesome experience it was to worship with 30,000 other Christians from throughout the U.S.

In 1998 Pastor Dwyer, Renee Dwyer, Bary Kienast and Karen Reinke accompanied 34 LYF members to Atlanta, Georgia, for the "Called To Be" National Youth Gathering. The group stayed in one of the suburbs and had to use the Marta (train system) to get downtown for the events. Atlanta had just hosted the summer Olympics, so the group got to see firsthand some of the sights they viewed on TV. The group spent many hours in the convention center going to workshops, hanging out at the Hanger and taking in all of the activities at the Freedom Festival.

One of the highlights of the gathering was in the dome during one of the evening festivities when a reenactment of the crucifixion on stage brought all 35,000 participants to a complete silence and to hear the words of Jesus ring out "It is finished."

During the years in between the national youth gatherings, the LYF group has participated in many activities. During weekend retreats at Camp Okoboji they enjoy the surroundings and become closer to each other and to God. The group continues to make their presence known at the Iowa District West Youth Gathering held in Des Moines over the Thanksgiving weekend. The group has started an annual tradition of traveling to Des Moines in January or February to go ice skating and then participate in a servant project.

The service projects have provided LYF members with the experience of serving supper in an open door mission and also caring for children of single mothers in a group home setting.

Zion's LYF conducts fundraisers to fund their activities and also to give back to the church. The Annual Easter breakfast is one such event that is enjoyed by the congregation. The youths have also conducted car washes, Christmas wreath sales, T-shirts sales, labor auctions, pizza and pie sales and others.

The group also strives to provide help for members of Zion's congregation by raking leaves, painting houses, scooping snow, cleaning up flood debris and singing Christmas carols.

The group enjoys fellowship and a variety of fun including hay rides, swimming, sports, dances, and just hanging out at meetings.

The youth group has outgrown two rooms over the years and is presently in the double room at the east end of the education wing, formerly Ida’s room. Spiritual messages and murals on the walls were painted by the students. The room is equipped with donated couches and carpet, pool table, and a stereo to play a selection of Christian music.

At the present time there are approximately 36 active members in the group. Sunday Bible class usually draws 20-25 members. The LYF group meets at least once a month. The group is led by Karen Reinke and Bary Kienast.

This item will be read with avid interest by the more than 4,000 members of Iowa West of high school age and will not be overlooked by scores of parents and others who are interested followers of basketball, particularly when it's time for the annual State high school basketball tournament. Three of the regular players on the Manning team, which this year won the State championship, were members of Zion Church of that town, including Royce Rowedder, Merlin Rostermundt, and Louis Bohnsack, while three others, Danny Peters, Leroy Kienast, and Jerry Knaack, were reserves. After several tournament games had been played on the same evening when a Lenten service was being conducted at the church, the father of one of the players asked his pastor, the Rev. J.M. Ansorge, if it would be possible to repeat the service which the boys had missed. The pastor consented, and eighty were present for the service. The boys and their parents are to be admired for not neglecting the really important things.

Single members of Zion have an opportunity each month to enjoy Bible study and fellowship through the Tri-County Singles organization. Currently consisting of 11 members from Audubon County, Shelby County and Carroll County, the group usually meets in the homes of its members. In addition to Bible study, the group occasionally enjoys social outings, such as dining out or attending an event. Pastor Richard Burrack of Trinity Lutheran serves as the group's leader.

Geared toward young adults and especially families, Christians Alive organized under the guidance of Pastor Krumm in 1984. The group met once a month providing fellowship and learning opportunities for members. Topics centered around Christian parenting and aspects of the Christian family. Fellowship activities included progressive dinners, scavenger hunts, and assisting with various church events, such as the congregational picnics. The group remained active until the early 1990s.

A group of young married couples of Zion organized in May of 1957 for the purpose of promoting Christian fellowship, helping charitable organizations, assisting the church where and when possible, and for the purpose of promoting Bible study.

Entitled Mr. and Mrs., the couples met on a monthly basis for topic, entertainment and discussion of work that they could do for the church. Topics centered around parenting, marriage and a Christian home.

Founding members included Roger and JoAnn Barten, Marvin and Donna Bogatzke, Larry and Cynthia Genzen, Bob and Neva Hinners, Lyle and Donna Joens, Leland and Genelle Kienast, Glen and Arlene Kusel, Walt and Ardith Lage, Bob and Myra Mohr, Russ and Joan Mohr, Frank and Arlene Mohr, Ken and Lucille Pfannkuch, Gilbert and Betty Schoba, Merle and Eileen Stoelk and Dale and Darlene Vollstedt.

The group donated furniture for Zion's nursery when the new church was constructed in 1962 and continued to look after the care of the nursery. Other projects listed in the club book are: railing for steps, rolling doors in the classrooms, library, and speakers for the fellowship hall.

Members recall that this group remained active into the late 1960's.

For a brief time during the early 1980s, a group of members served as Lamplighters, taking the Word of God to members of Zion who were shut-ins. Working in pairs, the Lamplighters called on Zion's members who resided at the county home and in nursing homes in the area, as well as members who were confined to their homes. The Lamplighters shared Bible stories, songs, Christian fellowship and prayer.

Zion's Care Committee began under Pastor Riggert with Joelle Puck and Sandra Vahl serving as the first coordinators. The committee is a small group of members who meet with the pastors several times during the church year to discuss and examine the special needs of Zion's members, and to determine the extent to which those needs are being met with Christian care.

Committee chairperson, Marion Ream, states that individual members of Zion often provide help to individual persons when needs arise such as meals, transportation, cleaning, and child care.

The committee strives to be mindful of the needs of shut-ins, including Zion members who are confined to the local nursing home, The Manning Plaza, as well as out of town nursing homes. They also minister to Zion members who are hospitalized, residing at New Hope homes, away at college, residing alone - widows and widowers, as well as other people with special needs.

Ministering to the elderly at the Manning Plaza is accomplished through weekly worship services held at the nursing home, monthly bingo and fellowship hosted by the ladies societies, Bible studies, and personal visits with the residents. Zion currently has 27 members residing at the Plaza.

In 1970 a group of ladies of Dorcas Society started a mission sewing project. During their first year the group made 41 quilts, 18 lap robes, five baby quilts and prepared over a thousand bandages. These items were given to hospital and Lutheran World Relief. Several pairs of pajamas were made for South Vietnamese children and hospital gowns were made from white shirts.

Heading the mission work were Alice Grau, Christine Mohr and Rose Keat. Approximately sixteen ladies helped with the sewing and quilting.

Sewing Circle continues to meet October through April to make quilts. While most of the quilts are made for World Relief, the group has, from time to time, made quilts as special gifts. The largest number of quilts ever made by the group in one year was 115. Their records show that, since 1972, they have made a total of 1,912 quilts.

The altar is the center of the church's worship, a symbol of God's gracious presence in His church. The members of Zion's Altar Guild prepare the chancel for worship each week.

Zion's Altar Guild had its inception under the mentorship of Pastor Heinicke in the early years of his ministry at Zion. At regular meetings guild members were instructed in the proper care and use of the paraments in regard to the feasts and festivals of the church calendar. Bible study was also an integral part of the meetings.

Pastor Heinicke encouraged the use of God-given talents and when it became necessary to replace some of the paraments, several of the ladies hand-made the new paraments. And when Augusta Bunz was asked to make a lace edging for special fair linen, she consented. Some early members of the guild were Nadine Heinicke, Kathryn Vollstedt, Helen Weible, Christine Mohr, Mercedes Bowers and Dorothy Kusel.

Bible study continues to be a part of the group's regular meetings. Current members of the guild are Ellen Fielweber, Marion Ream, Ermyle Fielweber, Rozora Schroeder, Donna Schmarzo, Wilma Wolfe, Winona Rowedder, Doris Rutz and Elda Ehrichs.

Early in the 1980's the Altar Guild's service took on a new dimension when members began creating worship banners. Zion now has numerous, colorful banners which depict various themes.

Guild members take special joy in preparing for the various festival worship services. The use of lilies at Easter, the displays of harvest bounty each fall, as well as Zion's Christmas tree with hand-made Chrismons reflect the service of Altar Guild.

The annual appearance of Christian symbols on Zion's large Christmas tree dates back to 1968 when the special decorations were created and used for the very first time.

The symbols, called Chrismons, a contraction of Christ Monogram, are entirely gold and white and distinctively Christian in character. White is the symbol of purity; gold, of majesty and glory. The ornaments are handmade of white pearls, beads, white styrofoam, gold beads, sequins, tinsel and other materials.

Elsa Rowedder first began the program. When she moved from Manning, the project was taken over by her niece, Helen Weible, who was assisted by two other family members, Alma Pahde and Karla Kusel.

Christian symbols, monograms and letters are used throughout the decorations. The white descending dove and the fish symbol of the early Christian are found on several of the ornaments. Wheat and grapes, signifying the bread and wine, are used in a large round gold ornament. The scallop shell with three pearl drops symbolizing baptism is also used.

Zion received information about how to make Chrismons, as well as permission to use the Chrismon idea, from the Lutheran Church of the Ascension in Danville, Virginia.

   

Zion's Shepherd Program was established by Pastor Krumm and the Board of Elders to help the church provide care for its flock.

"I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me … and I lay down my life for the sheep." {John 10:11, 14-15}

In addition to the individual caring relationship of pastor to member, the Shepherd Program established a network of one-to-one, member-to-member caring relationships. Shepherds, working with the support of the Board of Deacons and in co-operation with the Board of Elders, agree to provide spiritual care for specific members of the church. Through these special friendships, shepherds provide Christian support to people in need of physical or emotional care, prayers, visits, or perhaps simply communication. Numerous people in Zion's congregation serve as shepherds.

Through monthly meetings, worship services at Zion are planned and coordinated by a Worship Committee. The committee consists of Zion's senior pastor and assistant pastor, an organist, an elder and the director of music. Current members are: Pastor Vogel, Pastor Dwyer, Carlys Stribe, Warren Puck and Tom Ulrickson, respectively.

These worship leaders coordinate their individual contributions to worship in order that it can meaningful for all who attend services.

The Apostle Paul sets forth in First Corinthians 14:40 that all things in the church shall be done "decently and in order." To that end, the Church Council carries out the work of the church. The council is made up of several board chair positions and the church officers. Zion's pastors serve as advisors.

Board of Elders assists the pastors in the spiritual work of the congregation, including admonition and discipline.

Board of Trustees maintains the corporate properties of the church and are directed by the congregation by way of the Church Council.

Finance Committee receives and deposits contributions, keeps accurate records, delivers reports to the congregation regarding its finances and works with the overall budget.

Board of Education strives to provide Christian growth opportunities for all members of the congregation and the community.

Mission Committee encourages members to remain "in Mission" for our Lord and explores new means by which to spread His message.

Stewardship Board encourages members to exercise proper stewardship of their gifts - - time, talents and treasures - - which God has provided.

Preschool Board oversees the operation of Zion Preschool.

Evangelism Board serves the congregation in establishing and promoting active outreach and witness by members within the communities.

Board of Deacons assists the pastors and the elders in the spiritual life of the congregation. One deacon is assigned to each elder. Each deacon communicates with members of the Shepherd Program and assists the elders in maintaining a gracious and orderly worship setting by responding to the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of church members.

Current, 1999, officers and board members serving Zion Lutheran Church include: Chairman, Russell Mohr; Vice Chairman, Rodney Backhaus; Secretary, Virginia Johnson; Treasurer, Georgia Lohrmann; Financial Secretary, Donna Forman; Comptroller, Claus Bunz.

Board of Elders: Warren Puck, Floyd Forman, Bill Bruhn, Sam Musfeldt, Tim Kienast, Allen Stribe, Dave Grundmeier.

Board of Deacons: Craig Musfeldt, Gary Witt, Lavern Bald, Dan Mohr, Curt Janssen, Jeff Hargens, Leon Schoenfeld.

Board of Trustees: Barry Kusel, LeRoy Rowedder, Rick Lohrmann, Dan Peters, Ken Jensen.

Board of Education: Carol Kahl, Betty Schroeder, Kent Vollstedt, Gary Schroeder, Margaret Backhaus, Cindy Grau, Joelle Puck.

Board of Evangelism: Sue Puck, Dave Grundmeier, Tim Kienast, Janelle Schoenfeld, Renee Dwyer, Donna Rutz, Janet Brus.

Zion Preschool Board: Sandra Vahl, Sonia Nulle, Dave Grundmeier, Jean Ferneding, Claus Bunz, Pastor Vogel, Pastor Dwyer.

Board of Stewardship: Howard Roe, Carol Hagedorn, Leon Schoenfeld, Duane Otto.

Mission Committee: Ken Puck, Rozora Schroeder, Joelle Puck, Walt and Ardith Lage, Gordon and Donna Schmarzo.

THE MISSION OF ZION ~ Empowered by Word and Sacrament, Zion Lutheran Church celebrates Christ's redeeming love in worship and in fellowship and shares our saving faith in Word and Deed in our congregational fellowship, and immediate community, and into the world.

Pastor Eschenbacher wrote: The severe storm which swept through our community leaving uprooted trees, destroyed buildings, damaged crops and even causing the loss of a life very forcefully speaks to us. What a demonstration of power God has put on. How easily He will destroy the world at the proper time. How helpless man is before this power of God. How dependent for his food and clothing, even life itself is man upon the Lord. In view of these facts, how can anyone live without God, without prayer, without thinking of the hereafter, without a confession of sins, without a Savior Jesus Christ. If then this destructive storm will bring even one sinner closer to Christ and to God it will have been a blessing in spite of all material destruction, for what shall a man exchange for his soul.

Colossians 3:15-16