HOLY TRINITY TIMES A Century of Change 1904-2004

❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ With One Voice 100 Years of Worship at Holy Trinity English Lutheran Church

Our stories... When a group in 1904 chose to leave its home their families on Confirmation Day. The church congregation of St. Peder’s Lutheran Church, it was always appropriately decorated for special With One Voice — 100 Years of Worship was embracing the new realities of the commu- church seasons by members of the congrega- at Holy Trinity English Lutheran Church ...... 1 nities in which members lived and worked. St. tion. ‘Unless You Come as a Child’ — The Christian Peder’s was a Danish-speaking congregation in Education of Holy Trinity’s Youth ...... 3 Longfellow. This group, ripe with what we HE YEARS OF SOCIAL CHANGE: 1950 to 1969—Dr. The ‘Unruly Truth’ of Life — Confirmation T might now call “missionary zeal,” believed that Paul Graf began his ministry at Holy Trinity and the Questions of Faith ...... 4 the new church should use the English lan- Equipped and Educated — with a congregation of approximately 2,030 guage. The efforts of these members fittingly Living the Ethical Life...... 5 baptized members. He wrote his sermons at the ‘Let’s Start at the Very Beginning’— resulted in the establishment of the Evangelical dining room table on Saturday night after a Origin and Early Years, 1904-1908 ...... 5 English Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity. week of thinking about the text. During his Building the Church— early years, the baby boom contributed greatly Locations of Holy Trinity’s Buildings ...... 6 to rapid growth of the congregation. By 1954 the Giving Birth to a New Congregation— The founding group of Holy baptized worshipping community was 3,744, St. Peder’s Lutheran Church...... 7 In the Heart of the City— Trinity, ripe with what we making Holy Trinity the third largest church in Longfellow at the Turn of the Century...... 8 might now call “missionary the United Lutheran Church of America The Boom Years in Longfellow— (ULCA). That same year the 64th annual conven- 1900 to 1930...... 8 zeal,” believed that the new tion of the English Evangelical Lutheran Synod Toboggans, Hayrides, and Wiener Roasts — church should use the English of the North West was held at Holy Trinity. From Luther League to Youth Groups ...... 10 Graf had a strong emphasis on World Mis- Hoopin’ It Up— language. sions and served as president of the Board of The Church’s Gym Program ...... 11 World Mission of the ULCA. He also had a Getting the “Lutefisk Fix”— strong stewardship commitment. As it was Community Events and Fundraisers ...... 11 th A Welcome Table—Hospitality is a Key to THE EARLY YEARS: 1904 to 1917—During the noted in the congregation’s 50 Anniversary Congregational Sustenance...... 12 early years, many “firsts” occurred. Eugene booklet, “In the worship service each Sunday Engaged and Active — Lamonte Madvig was the first infant baptized every person is given the privilege of placing a The Church as Public Participant ...... 13 (January 1, 1905), and Mrs. Charles (Sophia) part of this personal life (by means of his Holy Trinity Youth Called to Ordained Baker was the first adult baptized (April 29, money) on the altar of God.” Ministry e ...... 14 1908). The first confirmation class of five Evangelism was also emphasized. Children A Love for People and Work— persons was confirmed on June 11, 1905. were encouraged to bring a new person when Ministry of Carl Bartsch ...... 14 Theodore Bernard Koopman and Sarah May they came the following Sunday. Congregation Keeping the Faith — Wilkirs were the first couple married (July 15, members were trained to do door-to-door Ministry of Pastor Paul Graf ...... 15 In Touch with the Times...and the Kids— 1908), and the first funeral was that of Mrs. J. outreach. Community children came to Vacation Ministry of Wayne Wickoren...... 16 Christian Cliplef on March 11, 1908. Church School. As the congregation grew, a trial The Healing Begins— This was a period of rapid growth of the third service was initiated to add to the 8:00 Team Ministry in the 1970s ...... 16 worshipping community, as it moved from a a.m. and 10:45 a.m. services. After a month it An Eye Towards the Future — baptized membership of 37 members to 273 was decided to discontinue the 12:15 p.m. Ministry of Pastor Ron Johnson ...... 17 members by 1909. The congregation’s first worship but the door was left open to recon- The Intersection of Faith and Daily Life— pastor, Luther Bushong Deck, remained with sider a third service. Ministry of Stacy K. Johnson...... 17 the congregation for five years. The second Special services abounded. Special Sundays ‘Go Into All the World’ elected pastor, Rev. John Sutherland Albert, was were emphasized with one such service saw 30 Study Trips Offer a New Perspective...... 19 Lutheran Church Women — installed on June 22, 1912. He served the to 40 baptisms on Easter Sunday afternoon. Doers, Servers, and Workers of congregation until the arrival of the Rev. Carl Special Sundays designated for communion the Church ...... 21 Herbert Bartsch, the congregation’s third pastor, were also held, to which shut-ins were occasion- Connected by More Than a Thread— on November 1, 1917. ally brought. Thanksgiving saw both Wednes- The Sewing Club ...... 21 day evening and Thursday services. Services Lift Every Voice— HE YEARS OF NEIGHBORHOOD GROWTH: 1917 to were held daily during Easter week and Ad- Music in the Life of Holy Trinity ...... 22 T 1950—Carl Herbert Bartsch was described as an vent. On New Year’s Day an afternoon com- Acting Out— munion service was held. It was noted in 1969 When Faith and Drama Meet ...... 23 animated, friendly, personable man who served that the Good Friday service was the largest By the Numbers— Holy Trinity for 33 years until his death at age Membership and Other Measurements...... 24 61. During this time the congregation grew from service of the year. Investing in the Future— 700 baptized members to approximately 2,000 Decorations also were special for the season. Endowment and Investment Funds ...... 24 worshipping members. Six worship services A large tree decorated with Chrismons (white Call to Lead— were scheduled for Easter Sunday in 1945. Christian symbols) made by the congregation The Challenge of Church Governance...... 25 Sunday school classes were large and Keeping the Door Open—Metro Work Center Expands the Ministry...... 25 totaled 270 at the beginning of his ministry ‘Go Into All the World’— at Holy Trinity. A Drive Toward Mission...... 26 Bartsch’s sermons were considered The Fulfillment of God’s Mandate— accessible and Biblical, though his prepara- Finding Jesus Amidst the Poor, the Sick, tion did not include the writing out of his the Imprisoned, and the Homeless...... 26 sermons. Preaching from an outline in his A Place to Belong— mind, his sermons included current events Increasing the Housing Options and personal experiences. He did not in Longfellow...... 28 necessarily use the prescribed liturgies for baptisms and weddings, but the overall tone was worshipful and orderly. Com- Holy Trinity Lutheran Church munion was open to all who believed and 2730 East 31st Street felt the need of forgiveness, but was Minneapolis MN 55406 offered at only one service on given 612 729-8358 Sundays, on an occasional Wednesday www.htlcmpls.org evening, and at special occasions such as 2004 Holy Trinity Pastors: Front row—Elieshi Mungure an afternoon service for confirmands and and Stacy K. Johnson, Back Row—Andrea Mwalilino, Ronald K. Johnson, and Peter Ndungu. 100th Anniversary Page 1 was used for several years. Crosses made by the THE YEARS OF NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICE: 1974 to the The concept of story has been occasionally congregation from palms were special favors for present—Ronald Karl Johnson began his work woven into the theme for the worship day, and Easter worship attendees and graced the meal at Holy Trinity on September 1, 1974. He was chancel plays have from time to time been trays of several local hospitals on Easter Sunday. called to be pastor and staff coordinator. incorporated into Lenten worship or on a Music was central to worship as well. The The worship space took on a new look in 1975 Sunday morning have been provided in a Junior Choir, Senior Choir, and bell choir played with the renovation of the chancel area of the musical setting by the Sunday School and monthly at worship. (Handbells made by White sanctuary. A free-standing altar, made from the Vacation Church School children. Chapel in England were purchased by the wood of the old altar, was made by Wayne At least eight different liturgies have been congregation in 1961.) The Service Book and Siewert and Eric Fors and served to bring the used in recent years providing an awareness of Hymnal, published in 1958, became the guide focus of worship closer to the congregation. A a variety of offerings. Still in use are the Holy for liturgy. Of the 600 copies purchased for faceted stained glass window was installed Trinity Liturgy, Lima, Haugen, Taize, African congregational use, 512 were given as memori- Liturgies, and settings I and II of the Lutheran als by members of the congregation. Book of Worship. Acolytes were only boys until the Holy Trinity has benefited from national church approved using its composer in residence, Robert girls in 1971. “Thank God for girl Wetzler, who wrote the Holy Trinity acolytes” one parishioner had Liturgy for the congregation in 2000. commented in The Community A number of other individuals have Church. composed music resources as well, In 1969 some classes were formed including Julie Lindorff, Ann to study “contemporary worship” Schrooten, and Rick Prescott. and steps were taken in the larger Currently three choirs participate in church to adopt a uniform worship: the Junior Choir, the lectionary for all Lutheran churches Senior Choir, and the Trinity Sing- in the world under the auspices of ers. The Baldwin Grand piano, Lutheran World Federation. purchased for $15,000 in 1993, is still in use. THE YEARS OF TRANSITION: 1969 to In 1976 the Worship and Music 1974—Over the next five years, Committee prepared the first several pastors served the congrega- resource guide for baptismal, tion for brief periods of time: marriage, and funeral practices Clemens Ziedler, David Gerberding, Sacrament of Baptism, beginnings in the journey of faith. within the congregation. In 1983 a Roger Eigenfeld, Roger Johnson, liturgical dance group was formed, Los and Thomas Robison. Several important things behind the altar. It was given in memory of and in 1987 the Andahazy Ballet performed Sieses, in the worship life of the congregation took Helen Nelson and flanked by six tall standing a meditation in dance on the Passion of place during these years. Fifth-graders were candleholders made by Jack Hanson. Christ for the Maundy Thursday Service. For permitted to take communion in 1972. Classes Numerous banners and paraments to be used the last three years congregation members have were held for parents so that they might help in the renovated space were designed and made written an Advent-to-Epiphany daily devo- their children gain a better understanding of the by Bev McGee. Improved lighting, new carpet- tional booklet that is sent to all members. sacrament. In 1974 several lay persons were ing, and a redesign of the choir area permitting Banners to grace the chancel are a growing appointed by the church council to assist with view of the chancel by the choir added to the collection designed and made by Bev McGee, administering communion. Special sermons for update. Most of the work was completed by Artist in Residence, and by Jeanette Paulson children were held after which the children congregation members, and was dedicated the and Barbara Berg, among others, and have been would be dismissed for classes. second Sunday of Advent, 1975. (Most recently often given as memorial gifts. The practice of the sanctuary has been repainted in anticipation having banners above the outside entrance to of the congregation’s centennial year.) the church representing the liturgical season of Though communing every Worship was seen as the central and integrat- the church year began in 1989. With the “Concordat of Agreement” between Sunday was initially ing action of the congregation’s life together. As Johnson stated, “Its style is liturgical and central the ELCA and the Episcopal Church, several controversial, the practice has are the elements of Word and Sacrament. events focusing on unity have been held with continued. Liturgical implies pattern, structure, and Holy Trinity being a strong participant. These relatedness. Thus it is that lessons, hymns, events were primarily worship and music, and statements of faith, sermon, intercessions, were held at Lutheran or Episcopal congrega- offertory, and communion occur in a develop- tions. Communion every Sunday first began during mental sequence and have a common theme. The congregation also has a long-standing Easter Season 1971. Though communing every Liturgical also implies an act of the people. relationship with St. Albert the Great Catholic Sunday was initially controversial, the practice Therefore, each worship service involves lay community. Over the years the choirs have has continued with additional services being persons in leadership roles and in the process of combined for worship and evening prayer, held for special occasions. The size of the communion.” Congregation members are deepening the shared experience of these two congregation began to decline as people moved involved throughout the worship service and congregations. to the suburbs, making a two-service schedule serve regularly as acolytes, liturgists, commun- more practical. In 1973 worship services were ion assistants, choir members, musicians, scheduled for 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. ushers, and caretakers of the altar and commun- Swahili services began after A new Casavant organ was purchased in 1974 ion ware. and had its first official use on Easter Sunday, congregational visits to Sermon material focused on appreciation of April 14, 1974. It was dedicated May 5, 1974, God’s gifts through creation, church, and city. Tanzania and have resulted in with a 4 p.m. concert by Minister of Music, Our life together also was a life of love, service, the forming of a Swahili- Layton Heckman. Two additional concerts were and responsibility for our community in a local held later in the year sponsored by the Ameri- speaking congregation. and global context including concerns for world can Guild of Organists, underwritten by Holy hunger, homelessness of children, elderly and Trinity. refugees, the earth, and the political process. In Of special note are the Swahili services that this community life, it is appropriate for the began after congregational visits to Tanzania congregation to be and with the visit of Pastor Balira in June 1993. involved in moral and Regular worship services in Swahili began in ethical discourse about October 1993, and have resulted in the forming its society and its of a Swahili-speaking congregation that draws legislation, to influence members from Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and wherever possible the surrounding communities. The congregation issues which are an currently sits on the growing edge of a rapidly affront to justice and expanding Spanish-speaking community, and is peace within the global exploring the development of a Spanish- community. Inclusion language liturgy. is a given value for the In many ways the congregation has come full congregation and all circle from the vision of its founding members are welcome without who desired a worship service in which English exception. Johnson’s was spoken to the inclusion of a Swahili- sermons have been speaking congregation and the current possibil- characterized as ity of sharing its building with a Spanish- theologically based, speaking congregation. The immigrant experi- somewhat intellectual, ence continues to drive the worship life of a thoughtful, and community in touch with the world. challenging. At Holy Trinity the table is open to all. —Mary Ellen Olson Page 2 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church ‘Unless You Come as a Child’ The Christian Education of Holy Trinity’s Youth The center of Holy Trinity’s life is worship. The following goals have been Intimately connected to the worship life of the established for the Church School community is education. In worship we hear program: the Word, celebrate the Sacraments, pray, seek ❈ Promote a high level of forgiveness, and offer what we have and who biblical literacy and under- we are to God’s service. In education we learn standing of the history of the to interpret the Scriptures, discuss the signifi- church. cance and implications of the Lord’s Supper and ❈ Engage in a process of Baptism, consider the responsibilities of for- serious, age-appropriate given sinners, and discern what it is that God biblical and theological calls us to do and be. The process of education reflection. lends meaning to worship, and worship nur- ❈ Experience creative ways of tures the life of faith. exploring biblical and theo- The Sunday Church School at Holy Trinity logical themes, especially emerged during the earliest days of the congre- related to music and art. gation. It began in response to concerns that ❈ Establish a sense of commu- Primary department classes (April 6, 1952), held in current choir room. children of the congregation and the larger nity among students and community needed to be educated in the between students and teachers. Christian faith from a specifically Lutheran ❈ Encourage students to recognize the church Over the past 15 years, Holy perspective. The beginnings were very modest: as a place for belonging, worship and 26 children gathered for the first day of class in learning. Trinity has developed a “village a storeroom of the building on 26th and Franklin In pre-school through grade six, students model” for use in the Summer Avenues. The congregation purchased an organ begin the Sunday School day with Opening Church School program. It is on an installment plan and bought curriculum Worship and then go to their individual class- through the General Council Publishing House. rooms. They study a wide variety of biblical an approach to education that is No funds were available to purchase chairs, stories, focus on the history of the church, designed to encourage both which had to be borrowed in order for students discuss the various expressions of the church in to have a place to sit. The first year witnessed the world today, and consider topics such as experiential learning and Holy Trinity’s first children’s Christmas pro- church architecture, care of the environment, critical thinking. gram and a Sunday School picnic at Minnehaha the immigrant experience, and affordable Falls. housing. Woven into the curriculum are large art projects and musical/drama productions. critical thinking. In order to do this, a large Grades 7 and 8 continue biblical study but learning environment is created in the gymna- The Sunday Church School also add increasingly sophisticated discussions sium depicting the week’s theme. To illustrate program is the centerpiece of related to the catechism, the Ten Command- “Paul’s Travels,” large structures (10 feet by 12 ments, the history of the Lutheran Church, and feet) were built to represent cities Paul visited. the Christian education of the issues facing youth today. High School students When the theme was “Christians Around the children and youth in the meet in a seminar format where they discuss a World,” a Norwegian Stave Church, Russian congregation. spectrum of topics including world religions, Orthodox Church, Tanzanian Church, Nicara- vocation, social concerns of the day, and issues guan Church, and English Cathedral were all directly related to the life of young people in the created. The children then “travel” to these community. The Adult Forum, open various places and “experience” a reality to members of all ages, hosts speak- different from their own. ers on a wide-range of topics relevant Connected to the experiential aspect of the to developing, sustaining, and program, the children also are engaged in nurturing the religious, spiritual, discussions relating biblical and theological moral, and ethical life of Holy themes to contemporary life. The structures Trinity’s members. have evolved over the years, becoming more The overarching goal of the complicated and more interesting, and giving Church School program for all ages is Holy Trinity an impressive collection of village to provide for the most complete props—everything from a Jewish temple to an possible instruction in the Christian Asian houseboat. faith to assist baptized persons as The Church School program involves many they seek to live as faithful Christian adults from the congregation. At one level, the people. materials created to assist teachers with their teaching are viewed as an opportunity for adult education. The curriculum is also intended to THE SUNDAY CHURCH School program enable faithful teaching so that the congregation is a critically important vehicle for upholds its responsibility to be a place of the Christian education of the Sunday Church School class, ca. 1980s worship and learning for people of all ages. children and youth in the congrega- Sunday School enrollment grew rapidly. Four tion. Indeed, it is really the centerpiece —Rev. Stacy K. Johnson years after the program began, the number of of the education program. However, the Sum- participants had increased four-fold to 109. mer Church School program provides an When the new academic year began in 1954, 50 important complement to the weekly program. years after the Sunday School’s inception, there The summer sessions are also particularly were 312 students and 24 adult leaders. In attractive to neighborhood families, so it also keeping with the major trends in Christian becomes an avenue for outreach into the education at the time, the curriculum in the community. early years focused on hearing Bible stories, Holy Trinity runs six separate weeks of memorizing biblical passages, the Ten Com- Vacation Church School throughout the summer mandments and creeds, and reflecting on the months. Each session has a different theme and moral life of the individual. Clearly, the Sunday targets a specific group of children or youth. School emerged and thrived in large degree due The Summer Church School program is in to the work and leadership of a dedicated group session four consecutive days, allowing themes of lay leaders. to be developed and studied in great detail. Holy Trinity’s commitment to the Christian Children have the opportunity to engage in education of children in the community has large artistic and musical projects. Over the remained strong throughout its history. Al- years, we have learned the textile process of though the number of children in the Sunday felting, created a nomadic-style yurt, produced Church School program has decreased over the numerous musicals, built several tool sheds for years, reflecting in large degree demographic Habitat for Humanity, gone camping in wilder- changes in the community, the program itself ness areas, and toured the city and state. has evolved. Children now begin Sunday Over the past 15 years, Holy Trinity has School at age three and continue through grade developed a “village model” for use in the 12. Currently all Sunday School materials are Summer Church School program. It is an prepared in-house as a way of ensuring that approach to education that is designed to they reflect, in content and process, the concerns encourage both experiential learning and 2004 Vacation Church School participants. of the congregation.

100th Anniversary Page 3 The ‘Unruly Truth’ of Life Confirmation and the Questions of Faith Swahili Speaking Community The Rite of Confirmation has long been estab- and community-building events. Events that Over the past couple decades, many lished in the Lutheran Church. Normally it take place beyond the space of Holy Trinity people of East Africa (Tanzania, occurs in the middle teenage years. The purpose include the Global Mission Village weekend, Uganda and Kenya) have come to the of the instruction is to equip young people for meal preparation at Simpson Shelter, Loaves metro area. Some come as students confirming the faith confessed for them in and Fishes Program, hiking on Isle Royale, a baptism. Confirmation instruction is but one visit to Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C., for specified period of time and then step in a lifelong process of “living into the and attendance at drama productions. return home. Others have settled in covenant of one’s baptism.” There are six primary areas of study over the the area. In the early 1990s it became span of the confirmation instruction. They are evident that the number of East as follows: Africans in the area was substantial. Confirmation instruction is but ❈ Bible Story This led the congregation to start a one step in a lifelong process of ❈ Story of the Christian Church Swahili language worship service on ❈ “living into the covenant of Small Catechism of Martin Luther a monthly basis. Over the past twelve ❈ Liturgies and music of the church years participation has grown to the one’s baptism.” ❈ Mission of the church ❈ point where there is an average Ethical reflection and conversation with culture attendance of nearly seventy-five people. There is now some conversa- According to oral histories, confirmation instruction during much of the history of this Generally matters related to the catechism are tion about the possibility of having congregation was focused primarily on Luther’s dealt with in the Sunday Church School class. two worship services per month. Small Catechism. This was largely consistent The Sunday Church School class studies per- The worship services are con- with the practice of the larger church. Great sons of faith. The other items are the focus of the emphasis was placed on learning from memory weekday classes. In the final year, confirmands ducted by pastors from Tanzania who read a book that has theological implications. are in the Twin Cities doing graduate the catechism. The creed, Lord’s Prayer, Ten Commandments and their meanings, plus For example, “Night” by Elie Wiesel is regularly work. Generally a pastor stays here descriptions of Baptism and Holy Communion used. Confirmands are asked to reflect on that for three to four years. Currently the were the central features of the catechism. book in the light of the Christian faith. What pastors are Andrea Mwalilino, Confirmation classes usually occurred during does the book say concerning the nature of the 7th and 8th grades and met on a weekly basis. human person and the reality of God? Elieshi Mungure, and Peter Ndungu. Confirmands also write an ethical reflection We have been very fortunate over the Confirmands were required to attend church services and Sunday Church School and to take paper on some important issue before society years to have very fine pastoral care sermon notes. Without questions there emerged and/or the church. Generally students decide to for the Swahili speaking portion of from these experiences some strong personal write on some matter for which the church has our congregation. In addition to relationships. or is developing a social statement. Every person needs certain touchstones in regular worship services, there are order to be able to struggle effectively with the occasionally marriage and memorial issues of life and faith. A basic framework is services. Stories concerning necessary. All of this involves the raising of There is a steady stream of per- examinations of confirmands questions. Questions are strongly encouraged sons from East Africa coming for during the course of confirmation instruction. prior to the Rite of The following poem by Gerhard Frost captures visits to the Twin Cities. They in- Confirmation have circulated the spirit in which confirmation instruction is clude pastors, bishops and other best conducted. people of the Christian community of for some time. Some people faith in East Africa. Time is always even remember these Remember allocated to these persons for the examinations as public in Life is God sized. Never trivialize it purpose of indicating the state of nature. By paring down its questions. things in Africa. This reporting Let truth be as unruly as its questions. normally is done in the context of a Let it carry you where you dare not go and meal that always follows the worship where today you fear to go. service. Stories concerning examinations of Strive to know confirmands prior to the Rite of Confirmation but in knowing, The Swahili speaking congrega- remember you may be tempted to shrink tion has been an important means for have circulated for some time. Some people even remember these examinations as public in your world to what you know enabling this congregation to be in nature. A few individuals said they knew what and then slowly cease to catch breath in awe contact with the church as it lives in questions would be asked; others claimed the and wonder. a distant portion of the world. whole process held more of a surprise. We have been provided with For many years completion of confirmation many new friends in Christ and some instruction was associated with admission to the sacrament of Holy Communion. About 1970 The Rite of Confirmation marks new understandings of the Christian the predecessor bodies to the ELCA changed the faith. policy so that children were invited to receive the entrance of a person into the sacrament at age 10, upon the completion of greater responsibility in the life a four- to six-session course. In 1980 Holy of the church. Trinity went a step further and invited children to receive the sacrament as early as age four. When children expressed interest in the sacra- ment, it was believed, they should be welcomed The Rite of Confirmation occurs within the to the table. In addition, it was felt that admis- context of Sunday worship. It marks the en- sion to the sacrament would demonstrate that trance of a person into greater responsibility in everyone was fully involved in the community. the life of the church. There is also something of This most recent policy has proved to be a good a recognition that parents and the congregation one. Children at the earliest age possible are have fulfilled obligations assumed in connec- invited to the altar rail for a blessing at the time tion with the sacrament of baptism, though this the elements of communion are distributed. As is not to say that there are no further responsi- with baptism, we grow into an understanding bilities. Every person, youth and adult, needs of Holy Communion. the sustained encouragement of family and congregation. A practice that probably extends OVER THESE MOST recent years, confirmation has back to the earliest days of the congregation is evolved into a four-year course. Once held that of presenting a bible to each confirmand. weekly, classes are now conducted on a The hope is that the bible will be a resource monthly basis, primarily to accommodate the throughout a person’s life. activity schedule at school. There are four —Rev. Ronald K. Johnson primary dimensions to the confirmation pro- Stained glass cross used in service processions, gram: worship, Sunday and weekday classes, designed by Tim Kretzmann in 2003. mission and service activities, and fellowship Page 4 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Equipped and Educated Living the Ethical Life

The Lutheran Church has always placed an and community. They are emphasis on confirmation instruction, normally conducted in the context of between the ages of 13 and 16. Unfortunately, breakfasts and luncheons. many people feel that this can mark the end in The theme is precise, the Christian education. A large percentage of time allocated is not more people in Christian congregations never again than 90 minutes, and the participate in serious Christian education discussion is lively. Themes classes. There is little wonder that the church is are usually related to some filled with biblically and theologically illiterate moral or ethical issue people. before the community, The record indicates that Holy Trinity state, nation, or church. Lutheran Church has long attempted to address These events have helped the matter of Christian education for adults. The to establish the congrega- most difficult task in any congregation is to find tion as a center for moral The Library regularly fills for presentations by guest speakers at Adult Forum, the time for such instruction. Before 1972 three and ethical discourse. ca.1960s. worship services filled the morning. While for some time an adult forum was conducted learn about the culture as well as social, eco- simultaneously with the middle service of the nomic, and political realities. These personal day, it was, in some sense, in competition with The congregation should serve encounters reinforce other attempts at congre- other things that hour. For much of the as a center for moral and ethical gational education. Contact with the local congregation’s life, the primary vehicle for adult discourse in a neighborhood. church is common. Many times the best analysis education was the women’s circles where Bible and development work comes from the reli- study was often conducted. gious community. Without question, these trips On the one hand, the decrease in number of have nourished and expanded the services reflected a decrease in the number of Symposia have become a regular part of congregation’s discussion of the world’s issues people. On the other, this situation opened up congregational life. Resource persons from and life. some new possibilities in the area of Christian across the country and beyond have been education. Most important, it was possible to invited to make presentations, usually three, designate an hour between worship services over a period of several days. Speakers have totally reserved for Christian education. ranged from a Russian diplomat during the Christian education is also The stated position of the congregation is that Cold War days to the most prominent theolo- about challenging people in a there is an openness to deal with any and all gians of North and Central America. In this way that generates new issues of life and faith. Sometimes this brings way, congregants can be exposed to some of the division of thinking, but there is an agreement cutting edge thinking in theology. questions and lifts vision. that we shall agree to disagree. The themes for Occasionally a special series is offered in the these sessions are wide ranging. Generally each area of biblical study or the manner in which session is self-contained. The usual practice is to literature informs or is informed by theology. Most people enter into study seeking answers have special resource persons make a presenta- The homilies of Evening Prayer services also to questions. In the process, some knowledge is tion, which is followed by discussion. Themes play a role in Christian education. Particularly gained. Christian education is also about range from biblical study to theological reflec- during Advent and Lent, the homilies are often challenging people in a way that generates new tion or consideration of issues in the life of the based on a piece of literature or a specific questions and lifts vision. A person of faith is world. theological concept. one who is not fearful of doubt and does not In spite of all the opportunities for Christian turn away from even the most penetrating and ADULTS ALSO HAVE opportunities for special education that have been offered throughout unsettling questions. This is all part of what is education sessions. One of the longest running the history of the congregation, the reality is involved in “living into the covenant of our approaches has been the “Symbols of the Faith” that only a modest percentage of the congrega- baptism.” retreat. Dr. Randy Nelson, a member of the tion has participated in an intentional manner. —Rev. Ronald K. Johnson congregation and a theological faculty member, The most recent attempt to expand the partici- has led these retreats for 28 years. The retreat pation is the congregational book reading deals with four symbols of the Christian faith— project. On a quarterly basis, a book is selected. ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ God, Christ, Spirit, and church. The study is Within this time period, provision is made for experiential. Participants discover they are some manner of discussion, whether in the form Additional stories can be better theologians than they thought. Every of a group discussion or a written article. found on the A final example of Christian education can be person of the congregation should participate at Holy Trinity website least once in this seven-hour retreat study. seen in study journeys to various areas of the Dialogue events have played a major role in world—Central America, South America, www.htlcmpls.org the education of people within the congregation Africa, and Mexico. In all cases, participants ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈

❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ ‘Let’s Start at the Very Beginning’ Origin and Early Years, 1904-1908

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church began when a On July 10, 1904, a group of these group of younger members who had been people met at the home of Mr. and active in the Young People’s Luther League at Mrs. Herman Jensen to discuss the St. Peder’s Lutheran Church, a Danish-speaking possibility of forming an English- congregation in Minneapolis, wanted to con- speaking Lutheran church. On duct Sunday School and church services only in August 25th, John Madvig announced English. “As young people,” they later wrote in to a meeting that he had secured the first minutes of the church, “they realized temporary space in Anderson Hall, a that their field would be especially among three-story brick building and young people and therefore it was also very meeting hall located at the corner of evident that this field had been very sadly Franklin Avenue East and 26th neglected, for in the whole district south of Avenue South, a building that still Cedar Ave. there was not a single English stands a century later. This building Some of the founding women of Holy Trinity English Lutheran Church. speaking Lutheran congregation.” was owned for at least part of the time by the Minneapolis Macaroni Company. This space cost $5 per month to rent, In the whole district south of and the group decided to purchase four dozen Nora Jensen gave the treasurer chairs, not to exceed $4 per dozen. Nora Jensen $1 at this August meeting, the Cedar Ave. there was not a gave the treasurer $1 at this August meeting, the single English speaking first contribution to the still-forming church. first contribution to the still- Lutheran congregation. Concern for the youth of the group ran high forming church. from the start, and forming an English Sunday

100th Anniversary Page 5 School emerged as one of the initial priorities. INITIALLY, HOLY TRINITY could not afford to call a On September 4, 1904, the founders established ON JANUARY 29, 1905, Holy Trinity formally regular pastor to serve the young congregation. a temporary church organization, chose the incorporated. Dr. G. H. Trabert presided at the Instead, the church hired seminary students to name “The English Evangelical Lutheran permanent organizational meeting on that day. preach and conduct services. The first student, Church of the Holy Trinity” for the new church, The young church adopted a constitution and Mr. Croman, served during the summer of 1905. elected officers, and formed the English- voted to affiliate with the Synod of the North- The church hired student K. J. Hatten in the fall speaking Sunday School. The first listing of the west. The church kept its initial name, the of 1905 and the first part of 1906. Later, field new church in the Minneapolis city directory English Evangelical Lutheran Church of the missionaries served as occasional pastors. In occurred in 1905, showing “Holy Trinity Holy Trinity. 1906-1907, Field Missionary Frank E. Jensen of Lutheran Congregational Sunday School” The first church council, elected at the time of Lindstrom, Minnesota, served as pastor of Holy located at 2525 Franklin Avenue East, the same incorporation, consisted of Nels Jensen, John Trinity when he could. On January 1, 1908, Field address as Anderson Hall. The church itself had Madvig, Emilius Jensen, Peter Cliplef, James Missionary John A. Zundel began a six-month no listing yet in the directory. Continuing its Mattesen, and Jorgen Jorgensen. period of serving as pastor. His service ended emphasis on youth, the church gave a reception on July 1, 1908, when Reverend Luther Deck to its first confirmation class on June 16, 1905, THE YOUNG CHURCH began by taking lots of became the first regularly called Pastor of Holy and Holy Trinity formed its first Luther League Trinity Lutheran Church, at the salary of $50 per in August of 1905. small, initial steps that we now would take for granted, and with virtually nonexistent funds. month. Pastor Deck served the church until THE CONGREGATION WAS quite small in the early On October 23, 1904, for example, a committee 1913. years. The 1906 city directory listed its member- was appointed to buy a stove for heating. The ship (probably only adults) at only 28. next May, John Madvig was authorized to buy a THE EARLY YEARS of Holy Trinity Lutheran Though no listing of “charter” members of collection plate. On January 2, 1906, a commit- Church essentially ended when the congrega- Holy Trinity exists, the following members tee was appointed to look for a bookcase. tion moved into its own church building at the attended the temporary church organizational The church’s meager finances also reflected southwest corner of 29th Avenue South and 29th meeting on September 4, 1904: John Madvig, the tough times in its early years. At one point, Street East in 1908, became self-sustaining, and Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Jensen, Nels Jensen, John for example, the church treasury held only 12 called its first regular pastor. At this point, the Mattisen, Mr. and Mrs. Christ Cliplef, Miss cents. On August 7, 1906, the treasurer reported church had moved south from what is now the Nora Jensen, and Miss Mary Petersen. Other that the church had no funds left and debts of Seward neighborhood into the Longfellow early participants included Peter Cliplef, $16.70. But despite the tight financial situation, neighborhood and began setting down the roots Emilius Jensen, James Matteson, Rasmus and matters for providing for communion, for that still anchor the congregation in this com- Mina Leegard, Mr. and Mrs. Herman Jensen, Sunday School instruction, and for confirmation munity. But it was the origin and early years at and others. were also dealt with by Holy Trinity during the Franklin Avenue East and 26th Avenue South early years. that provided the start to it all! —Kevin Proescholdt ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈

Building the Church The Locations of Holy Trinity’s Buildings

At the time that Holy Trinity English Lutheran Pastor Carl Bartsch came to Holy Trinity in Church formed in 1904, St. Peder’s Lutheran 1917, and the congregation soon outgrew the Church was located at 2003 South 9th Street in church at 29th and 29th. Holy Trinity purchased Minneapolis. The first building that Holy an empty lot for a new church building at 28th Trinity used for worship was in a three-story Avenue South and East 31st Street in January brick building and meeting hall called variously 1922, located a block south of Lake Street. Anderson Hall or the Anderson Building on In 1922, construction of a new 72 x 123 foot Franklin Avenue East and 26th Avenue South church building began at this new location. (2523-2529 Franklin Avenue East), a structure Architect C.J. Bard designed the plans, and that still stands. For at least part of the time that Norwegian immigrant and Minneapolis builder Holy Trinity used this site, it was owned by the Sven I. Serigstad began construction of the new Second home of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church at 29th Minneapolis Macaroni Company. This location structure, estimated to cost $75,000. On August Avenue and 29th Street, ca. 1923. Photo from Minnesota served the young congregation for several 13, 1922, ground was broken for the new Historical Society. years. building, and the cornerstone was laid on In 1907, the congregation purchased an empty October 22, 1922. lot at the southwest corner of 29th Avenue South A year later, on November 4, 1923, the Holy addition to the church. and East 29 th Street (2900 29th Avenue South), Trinity congregation marched together from the On June 29, 1952, ground was broken for a moving southward as the community itself old church at 29 th and 29th to the new building. new 94 by 87-foot, four-story $500,000 Bartsch grew and built southward. At the same time, Even though the new church was not yet Memorial Parish Home, located immediately Bethel Swedish Baptist Church, located at 2514 completed, the congregation began using the adjacent to the existing church on its north side. 29th Avenue South, had outgrown its church The cornerstone was laid on January 25, 1953, building. Holy Trinity bought the church and by September of that year, the new Parish building from Bethel, and moved the 36 x 72 House was first used by the Sunday School. The foot structure four blocks south in early 1908 at On November 4, 1923, the formal dedication of the Parish House occurred a cost of $500 to the empty lot at 29th and 29th, Holy Trinity congregation on May 23, 1954. The new addition adjoins the older church, and continues to be used today. placing it on a newly-built stone foundation. marched together from the old Here Holy Trinity had its first real church, and About ten years later, in the mid-1960s, Holy th th the congregation set down its roots in the church at 29 and 29 to the Trinity developed new building plans. The Longfellow neighborhood of south Minneapo- new building. church envisioned a five-phase construction lis. project that included razing the original church building on 31 st Avenue (to be replaced by a youth and community center), and building a lowest level of the new building (now the gym) new modern church sanctuary fronting on Lake for worship and parish activities. Construction Street. Funds were raised for this ambitious continued throughout 1924, and the opening project that would have developed an entire and dedication of the completed brick structure Holy Trinity campus between Lake Street and occurred on January 29, 1925, on the 20th anni- 31st Street. Holy Trinity had already purchased versary of the congregation. some of the homes and lots along either side of 28th Avenue South. IN THE MID-1940S, the people of Holy Trinity In that era of urban renewal, when many old again began to see the need for more space and buildings were torn down and replaced by began discussions regarding additional build- modern structures, Holy Trinity’s promotional ing. Pastor Bartsch died on April 10, 1950, and brochure of the project sounded those familiar was succeeded by Pastor Paul L. Graf on themes: “WOODEN roof members, WOODEN August 15th of that year. Holy Trinity, under flooring, WOODEN framing, WOODEN Pastor Graf’s leadership, decided to build a new lath…providing conditions conducive to fire four-story parish house in Pastor Bartsch’s disaster.” Building at 26th Avenue and Franklin provided the first memory. In April of 1952, the church moved a The proposed new building project did not home to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church when the church one-story home from just north of the church to have unanimous support from the congrega- was formed in 1904, ca. 1952. The building is still in use tion, however, and divided the congregation in 2004. Photo from Minnesota Historical Society. a new location, and cleared the way for a major Page 6 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Holy Trinity. With the new times and new 1990s, the congregation recognized the need for people, Holy Trinity decided in the 1970s additional housing in the Longfellow neighbor- to continue utilizing the existing church hood, particularly for affordable housing and facilities and began to refurbish, repair, housing for those with mental illness. Jane and remodel for the next 30 or more years. Kretzmann led the church’s housing subsidiary Holy Trinity did eventually develop the for the planning, approval, and financing of a mall area in two stages in the 1970s and new 24-unit apartment building on Lake Street. late 1990s. In the 1970s, the church sold The Trinity-on-Lake Apartment Building the lot on Lake Street to the Minneapolis opened in 2003, and has completed the Holy Public Library for the construction of a Trinity campus between Lake Street and 31st new East Lake Branch Library on the site Street while providing much-needed new earlier envisioned for the new church housing for the community. One component of that earlier ambi- —Kevin Proescholdt tious vision called for the construction of Sketch of 1960s proposed building projects. two high-rise apartment towers for senior citizen housing. This portion of between those who wanted to build the new the plan came to fruition after many years of church and those who rather wanted to empha- planning and work. After Pastor Ron size outreach and service to the community. It Johnson arrived at Holy Trinity in 1974, he also divided the two long-time Holy Trinity supervised the acquisition of the last remain- pastors, with Paul Graf in support of the new ing lot needed to begin construction of a new building and Wayne Wickoren emphasizing 120-unit low-income high rise called Trinity outreach and service. Members tended to line Apartments. At this time, Holy Trinity also up behind one beloved pastor or the other, sought and received city approval to vacate which further polarized the congregation. 28th Avenue South between Lake and 31st Though money was raised for the building Street in order to construct the high-rise. The program between the mid- to late-1960s, the congregation completed construction of the unsettled conditions within the congregation apartment building in 1978. could not sustain the continued building plans. Current home of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 28th Finally, Holy Trinity continues to serve the And in 1969 both pastors saw the need to leave Avenue South and 31st Street South. housing needs of the community. In the ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ Giving Birth to a New Congregation St. Peder’s Lutheran Church

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church grew out of St. Lutheran churches was usually called the Inner Peder’s a century ago. Both congregations have Mission. This tradition emphasized personal continued to serve south Minneapolis since piety, a literal interpretation of the Bible, and the then, and have cooperated on various projects need for personal spiritual renewal and com- through the decades as well as both sharing the mitment. Adherents of the Inner Mission also Good News to the south Minneapolis commu- often came from lower social classes of society nity. than most Grundtvigians, and looked aghast at St. Peder’s formed on March 13, 1884, as a the secular nature of many Grundtvigians. Danish-speaking Lutheran immigrant congrega- During the 1870s and beyond, the growing tion in Minneapolis. About 90 members formed conflict between the Grundtvigians and Inner the initial charter congregation. St. Peder’s Mission affected many of the Danish-American bought a corner lot at 20th Avenue South and 9th Lutheran Churches. St. Peder’s was no excep- Street South in 1886 (near today’s Augsburg tion. College and I-94), and built the first church Adam Dan had been part of the Grundtvigian building the following year. tradition. In 1873 and 1874, the Inner Mission The congregation called Adam Dan as its first faction tried to drum him from the church as a St. Peder’s first church at 20th Avenue South pastor, who began his heretic, and initiated a lawsuit to force him from and 9th Street South. work in October 1884. the Racine church, utilizing the opinions from Born in Denmark, he the conservative Missouri Synod Lutheran speaking Sunday School, and later to officially had served as a leaders who concluded that Pastor Dan was form the separate Holy Trinity English Lutheran missionary in Pales- guilty of “gross heresy and apostasy” and urged tine before receiving a that his views “by all lawful and scriptural call from the Scandi- means be driven out and exterminated.” In 1904, about a third of the navian Lutheran Though the Missouri Synod and Inner Mission congregation left St. Peder’s to congregation in faction found Pastor Dan guilty of preaching Racine, Wisconsin. false doctrine, the Grundtvigians remained the establish initially an English- Rev. Dan accepted the majority in the Racine congregation and the speaking Sunday School. call and was ordained court gave them the church property and in Racine in 1871. Rev. Adam Dan original name of the congregation. The same kind of factional fighting divided Church. Only about 15 families remained at St. many Danish Lutheran congregations, St. Peder’s after this split. Grundtvigianism often Peder’s among them. In 1888, many families left In 1920, a fire burned St. Peder’s church St. Peder’s because of this split to form building, the third major crisis in the encompassed a secular, broad- Immanuel Danish Lutheran Church. Pastor Dan congregation’s history. After some soul-search- minded view of society that stayed at St. Peder’s, however, until 1891. It ing, St. Peder’s chose to re-build further south may be that the broad-minded Grundtvigian in Minneapolis the following year, a building at supported education, civic view for civic engagement and mission he 35th Avenue South and 32nd Street South that still engagement, and a spirit of brought to St. Peder’s positively impacted both stands. The language question had not gone freedom. St. Peder’s and Holy Trinity in subsequent away at St. Peder’s either, even after Holy decades. Trinity split away. In June 1930, two services were conducted in English and the rest in The Lutheran Church in Denmark, and the THE “LANGUAGE QUESTION” also impacted most Danish. By 1932, only one Sunday School class Danish-American Lutheran churches in the immigrant churches in America, and St. Peder’s in Danish remained. U.S., were influenced by two differing traditions again was not immune. Some churches In 1962, St. Peder’s completed its final move at this time. One tradition was called switched to English early on, others held on to southward in south Minneapolis, dedicating its th Grundtvigianism, named after a Danish pastor the native language well into the 1930s. The current church building at 46 Avenue South nd and theologian, N.F.S. Grundtvig. Augustana Lutheran Synod, for example, and 42 Street East. To this day, St. Peder’s Grundtvigianism often encompassed a secular, formed by Swedish immigrants, formed an continues to preach the Good News and serve broad-minded view of society that supported Association of English Churches within the the community as it has since 1884. And, as one education, civic engagement, and a spirit of church until the synod had officially switched to example of the cooperation it maintains with freedom. Theologically, Grundtvig came to English. At many churches, the older members Holy Trinity, both congregations worked believe in the importance of the early Christian tenaciously tried to retain their native language together to build a Habitat for Humanity house Church itself and the Apostles Creed over a while younger generations pushed to make the at 3408 Snelling Avenue South in 2002-2003 as a literal interpretation of the Scriptures, which he switch to English. gift to the community, one of several projects felt the early church had itself produced. This drama also played out at St. Peder’s in that also help mark Holy Trinity’s centennial. The other main tradition with Danish 1904, when about a third of the congregation left St. Peder’s to establish initially an English- —Kevin Proescholdt 100th Anniversary Page 7 In the Heart of the City Longfellow at the Turn of the Century

As the calendar turned from 1899 to 1900, the date the growing number of children in the Road park land was acquired between 1893 Longfellow neighborhood was already chang- neighborhood. and 1902. ing and growing. Remember that the city of ❈ The Lauritzen Blacksmith Shop had been on ❈ The Sheltering Arms orphanage of the Minneapolis was less than 50 years old in 1900, Minnehaha Avenue, immediately south of Episcopal Church, located on the West but had grown rapidly to a total population of Lake Street, since 1884. The blacksmith River Road, was established in 1882. It 202,718. All of the land of the Longfellow shoed workhorses from the nearby farms, continued as an orphanage into the 1930s. neighborhood had already been annexed to the carriage horses, and horses at the fire During the 1940s and 1950s, the building city of Minneapolis, and the intersection of Lake station. housed a polio treatment center. The Street and 27th Avenue was emerging as the ❈ Fire Station Number 21, now Patrick’s building later functioned as the Minneapo- cornerstone of the neighborhood. Cabaret and next to the current police lis school’s clinical research and teaching station, was built in 1894. At that time they facility for mentally challenged children A Stroll Through the Neighborhood fought fires from water tanks and pumpers through the 1980s. The Becketwood resi- on wagons pulled by horses. dence for seniors is now at the location. ❈ The original Longfellow School was located ❈ Police work and protection were provided ❈ Elim Presbyterian Church was on the north on the northwest corner of 27th Avenue and by patrolmen on foot in the more settled side of Lake Street near 30th Avenue. Elim Lake Street, the present site of Blockbuster areas of the city and on horseback in the was the only church in what we now know Video. The school, built in 1883, served more remote areas. as the Longfellow neighborhood. students in grades one through eight. ❈ The first farm machinery foundry, that ❈ A horse exercise track and a baseball park Twelve rooms had to be added to accommo- would become the Moline line of farm were located near 38 th Street and Minnehaha tractors and implements, was built in the Avenue. The track was needed because 1890s at the northwest corner of Minnehaha carriage and buggy horses needed regular Avenue and Lake Street, the current loca- exercise and the baseball field is said to be If you lived in Longfellow at the tion of the Target Store and the strip mall. the predecessor of the Nicollet Ball Park. Turn of the Twentieth Century,… ❈ The Flour City Ornamental Ironworks was ❈ Working farms of cultivated fields, on 27th Avenue just north of the east-west hayfields, and pastures occupied much of railroad line to Saint Paul. the land south and east of 27th Avenue and …your house was likely within a few ❈ The Milwaukee Railroad yards, north of the Lake Street. blocks of 27th Avenue and Lake Street. Minneapolis Moline plant, had already been ❈ The topography of the land was almost flat. …your water source was a well and a in place for decades. The rail line running And, because it was an oak savannah pump in the yard, and you also had south through the neighborhood to Fort prairie, it was almost treeless, except for the an outhouse. Snelling and Mendota had been in place oak and cottonwood trees that bordered the since 1865, and the Princess Depot—still bluffs along the Mississippi River and along …you heated your house with a coal located at Minnehaha Park—since 1870. the several streams that flowed east to the stove and cooked on a coal or kerosene ❈ The original Lake Street Bridge, built in big river and drained the land. As the stove. 1888, was designed to carry pedestrians and neighborhood was settled, these stream …you traveled to work, shops, school, horse-drawn street cars and wagons be- beds were filled in. The only visible rem- and church mostly by walking, or by tween Minneapolis and Saint Paul. nants are the huge ravines cut into the river ❈ The land for Minnehaha Park was acquired bluffs at 36th and 44th streets. street car, if you were going north of and set aside in 1889, and the West River —Bill Milbrath Lake Street (unless you were wealthy enough to own a horse and buggy). ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ …you lighted your home with kero- sene lamps and had an ice box for The Boom Years in Longfellow perishable foods. 1900 to 1930 …anything delivered to your home— The first thirty years of the 20th century were 30th Avenue to 33rd Avenue, and was the like milk, ice, or groceries—was by truly the “boom years” of the Longfellow Valleyfair of its time. The Park offered horse-drawn wagon, although milk neighborhood. Population grew from only a few funhouses, exciting rides (“Shoot the Chutes”), and vegetables in season were also hundred residents to almost 30,000. That meant daredevil acts (diving from a 100-foot tower), available from nearby farms. the construction of about 300 new houses or beautiful flower beds and landscaping, and …you quite likely had a garden in dwelling units for 1,000 people each year. night time illumination provided by thousands Minneapolis more than doubled from 202,356 to of new electric lights. On Memorial Day, 1905, your yard, and canned the surplus 464,356 from 1900 to 1930. 70,000 people came to Wonderland via the vegetables and fruits in Mason jars Accompanying infrastructure also had to be newly extended Lake Street Trolley line. The for winter-time eating. built to serve the growing population: miles of only building that survives is “Incubator Flats,” …you may well have had farm streets and sidewalks; sewer, water, and electric a two-story apartment house at 31st Avenue and st animals—a cow, a horse, or a few lines; street car tracks down the middle of the 31 Street, where, for a fee, people could view main thoroughfares; retail and commercial premature babies in incubators, a scientific chickens—in a small barn on the back establishments located strategically along those novelty of the time. The park closed in 1912, of your lot. routes, particularly where street car lines and some of its attractions were moved to the …you probably attended Holy Ro- intersected; schools, parks, and libraries; and Excelsior Amusement Park out west on Lake sary Parish at 24th Street and Cedar many churches throughout the neighborhood. Minnetonka. Avenue if you were Catholic, and one Street car lines came first, and the rest of the The second major attraction in the neighbor- development followed. The north-south line on hood was the Longfellow House and Zoological of the Protestant congregations on 27th Avenue was extended south of Lake Street Gardens, built in 1908 by Robert Freeman Franklin or Riverside Avenues. along Minnehaha Avenue in 1905, and the “Fish” Jones along the west side of Minnehaha …your children attended Longfellow crosstown east-west line along Lake Street was Park. Jones, an admirer of the poet Henry school at 27th Avenue and Lake Street begun that same year. To connect Longfellow to Wadsworth Longfellow, welcomed visitors to for elementary, or South High School, St. Paul, however, the Lake Street Bridge first his home wearing a tall hat and swallow-tailed had to be strengthened to bear the weight of the coat and tossed fish to the seals in his pond. In then located across from Holy Rosary much heavier street cars, work that was done in the 1930s, Fish Jones’ land became part of on Cedar Avenue. 1906. Finally, the north-south line on 36th Minnehaha Park, and his Longfellow House …you were likely employed at the Avenue was extended south of Lake Street in became a Minneapolis branch library until 1968. nearby farm machinery foundry, the 1909. The house was moved to make room for the railroad yards, or the ornamental As residential areas grew along the street car expansion of Hiawatha Avenue and light rail lines, water and sewer services were also tracks, and is now newly restored within ironworks, or at one of the many installed. These utility lines reached Minnehaha Minnehaha Park. mills near Saint Anthony Falls. and Lake Streets in 1903. By 1922, they had been Neighborhood schools appeared as popula- …you lived in a neighbohood with extended south to 38th Street and east to 36th tion soared. Simmons School was built in 1905 only a few hundred households, with Avenue. Electricity also came along quickly at 38th Street and Minnehaha Avenue. It served a total population of about 1,500 during these years and became a reality for students in grades one through eight until 1942. nearly all homes and for private and public The school later became a private electronics people. buildings. vocational school and most recently, in 1986, …you were likely young, working Two major amusement and recreational was converted to rental apartments. Johnson class, and part of a family that spoke attractions were built in Longfellow early in the School, located at 37th Avenue and 32nd Street, more than one language at home. 20th century, drawing crowds from all over the was built in 1910 and was serve students until city. In 1905, the Wonderland Amusement Park 1942. The building was in use until 1976, when was built on the south side of Lake Street from single-family homes were built on the site. A

Page 8 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church tion to this day. The first, the International Order of Odd If you live in Longfellow Fellows (I.O.O.F.) building, at the Turn of the Twenty-first was built in 1909 by the Century,… Masons. Its first floor has always consisted of retail establishments, the second …you may live in a single-family story has been rental space for home, a group house, or an apart- various medical and other ment building. professional services, and the …you will receive your water, like all third floor has provided space for meetings and activities of other Minneapolis residents, from the the Masons. It is now undergo- Minneapolis Water Works. ing renovation and restoration …you probably travel to work by car, for contemporary use. but significant numbers also use bike The second building of (on the new Greenway), light rail, or note is the three-story Freeman Building, located across the bus. The roller coaster, Wonderland Park, East Lake Street, ca. 1905. Photo from street and built in 1917 by the …you probably use one of the “big Minnesota Historical Society. Freeman family, who lived in box” grocery stores, though there are private school, Minnehaha Academy, was the Seward neighborhood. The Freeman De- several food coops or family groceries established in 1913 by members of the Swedish partment Store occupied the basement and first still in the area, including an increas- Covenant Church near the West River Road floor, and was a shopping destination for south south of Lake Street. Through the years, addi- Minneapolis residents for nearly 60 years. The ing number of “ethnic” groceries. tions were built as enrollment grew. Finally, in second floor was rented to medical and other …you might have a flower garden, 1981, the school purchased the former Breck professional concerns, and it was also the site of but do not grow significant amounts School at 42nd Street and West River Road, a well-known accordion school. For years, the of vegetables (which you might making that site its South Campus. Coliseum Ballroom was located on the third receive instead from a Community Additional schools were built in the neighbor- floor and had the reputation of having the hood, including: nicest dance floor in Minneapolis. Supported Agriculture farm sup- ❈ Hiawatha Elementary School, built in 1916 Motor vehicles arrived on the scene during ported by Holy Trinity). at 42nd Avenue and 42nd Street, and still in the boom years of the Longfellow neighbor- …you are challenged to “cook Min- use by the community. hood, particularly during the 1920s. Mass nesotan” at the annual Holy Trinity ❈ Longfellow Elementary School, built in 1918 production and assembly-line manufacturing Minnesota Meal, where all ingredi- at 30th Avenue and 31st Street, was closed in made the automobile affordable to a great 1978 but reopened in 1986, again as an number of people and civic service organiza- ents for the potluck must be grown elementary school. tions, such as the police and fire departments, within this state. ❈ Stowe Elementary School, built in 1920 at and to businesses, which used the vehicles for …your children attend school 40th Avenue and 28th Street, was used until deliveries of goods and services. throughout south Minneapolis, the early 1940s, when it became housing New and more rapid means of communica- though many are at Cooper, Dowling, during World War II. The building was later tion also became a reality for many as telephone torn down and homes were built on the site. equipment and services became affordable and Hiawatha, Anne Sullivan, Seward, ❈ Roosevelt High School, built in 1922 at 28th as the invention of the radio and the establish- or Longfellow for elementary; Anne Avenue and 41st Street, continues to the ment of broadcast stations came about. By 1930, Sullivan or Sanford for middle present. social changes since the turn of the century school; and Washburn, Roosevelt, or ❈ Cooper Elementary School, built in 1923 at meant that churches in Longfellow were ripe for South for high school. 44th Avenue and 33rd Street, continues to the growth. The neighborhood had grown from present. 1,500 to 30,000; the invention of the automobile …you probably speak English, but ❈ Dowling Elementary School, built in 1924 meant that people could more easily travel to may well also speak at home Spanish, along the West River Road south of 38th church and across greater distances; the pastor, Oromo, Ahmharic, Ojibwey, Arabic, Street, was established as a city-wide school could make extensive calls in his own car; and Hmong, or Somali. for children with physical disabilities and the arrival of the telephone meant that instant …you probably haven’t touched a served that purpose until the late 1980s, two-way communication was possible. when it became an environmental school. Many of Longfellow’s churches began their farm animal in the last year! ❈ Sanford Middle School, built in 1926 at 42nd ministries in the early decades of the 1900s. …you are likely employed as an Avenue and 36th Street as a junior high Among them are: independent consultant or a profes- school, now serves students in grades six ❈ Prince of Glory Lutheran Church sional, and you are employed whether th through eight. (Minnehaha Avenue and 44 Street) was you are a male or female. ❈ Howe Elementary School, built in 1927 at established in 1923 by Slovakian people, 43rd Avenue and 38th Street, continues to the many of whom once lived at “Bohemian …you live in a neighborhood with present. Flats” under the Washington Avenue twenty thousand other people. The East Lake Library, first located and built Bridge. The church was first known as the …you could have a picnic or play in 1924 at 2916 East Lake Street, continued at Slovak Lutheran Church of the Holy with children at a number of city that location until 1976, when the present Trinity, and its first church home, located at parks, including Brackett and library was built at 28th Avenue and Lake on 29th Avenue and 29th Street, was purchased land purchased from Holy Trinity. from Holy Trinity Lutheran Church when Longfellow. Parks began to appear on the scene following our congregation moved to its new building …you are provided electricity in your land acquisitions for Minnehaha Park in 1889 south of Lake Street. In 1957, the Slovak home, and use it for refrigeration, and the River Road Park around the turn of the Lutheran Church moved to its new church cooking, air conditioning, kitchen century. The Minnehaha Park pavilion was built building on Minnehaha Avenue and appliances, a washer/dryer, and a in 1905, followed by the refectory in 1918. changed its name to Prince of Glory. The People flocked to Minnehaha Park from all over congregation disbanded in the 1990s. Its computer. the city for picnics by the falls, arriving by street facility is now occupied by The Ethiopian …you hire professionals to fix the car or by train at the Princess Depot. Tent Orthodox Church of Our Savior. plumbing, electrical, or structural camping also became popular as cars arrived ❈ Elim Presbyterian Church was located on problems in your house, rather than during the early years of the century. the north side of Lake Street when Wonder- fix them yourself. Longfellow Park, established in 1918 at 36th land Park was built across Lake in 1905. The Avenue and 35th Street, has been used by Sunday morning fun and noise from the …you may or may not be part of a generations of neighborhood youth and adults Park soon conflicted with worship services faith community, but, if so, the for informal recreation and organized sports in at Elim. Wonderland management eventu- choices include several non-Christian all seasons of the year. Seven Oaks Park, at 34th ally purchased land at 30th Avenue and 33rd options in addition to numerous and Street and Park terrace, was donated to the city Street and moved the church to the new varied Catholic, Protestant, Evan- in 1922 after the land in that area was platted location. Eventually, fire destroyed the for houses. Some say this block-long, tree-filled church building and a new building was gelical, Historic Black Church, and deep ravine was created when the roof of a built in 1914. Along the way, Franklin Orthodox churches. limestone cave collapsed thousands of years Presbyterian merged with Elim, and the ago. Other parks in the neighborhood include congregation became known as Vander– Brackett Park, established in 1921 at 38th Avenue burgh Presbyterian, which continued for 80 and 42nd Street, and Hiawatha Park, incorpo- more years. The congregation dwindled in rated in 1931 at 43 rd Avenue and 42nd Street. numbers and finally closed its doors. In Two prominent buildings were built at 27th recent years, the building has become the Avenue and Lake Street during the Longfellow home of the Indian Fellowship Assembly. boom years and continue to anchor the intersec- —Bill Milbrath 100th Anniversary Page 9 Toboggans, Hayrides, and Wiener Roasts From Luther League to Youth Groups Nights,” highlighting positive and negative—would be answered in Holy Trinity’s commit- the The Community Church. Youth felt they were ment to work mis- being heard, and their pastors not only listened sions. Other topics to, but enthusiastically worked and played with reflected concerns of them. the times, such as “Should we Date?”, WHEN THE AMERICAN Lutheran Church, the “Should I go to Lutheran Church in America, and the Associa- College?”, and “How tion of Evangelical Lutheran Churches merged to Fight Communism in 1988, Luther League was replaced by the in a Christian Way.” ELCA’s Lutheran Youth Organization, with Holy Trinity’s Joyce unity as a major goal. This coincided with Holy Johnson presented a Trinity’s three stated goals in the November topic on her experi- 1971 The Community Church: “Unity, One in ences as a “Caravaner” Christ,” “Sensitivity to the needs of community (older leaguers who and family,” and “relevance in all our actions.” traveled the U.S. in These three goals were guideposts for subse- teams to build other quent youth planning and programs. youth programs). Since Pastor Ronald K. Johnson’s acceptance The recre- of Holy Trinity’s call in 1974, he consistently ational activities and encouraged the development of values in both fellowship further adults and young people, bolstered by research th Luther Leaguers in the 4 floor Sky Room, Winter 1955. encouraged leaguers in the 1980s indicating that these values were to return each Sunday being ignored or lost. Dr. Peter Benson, Presi- In 1895, nine years before the birth of Holy night, rather than staying home and watching dent of the Search Institute, noted in a Septem- Trinity, the Luther League was constituted in Bonanza! Leaguers enjoyed gathering in the Sky ber 21, 1986 Adult Forum, “Children…should New York City. The League’s early aims in- Room for lunch box auctions, ping pong, and develop three value orientations: self restraint, cluded building in youth the foundation of a songfests, perched on the benches that sur- compassion, and commitment.” Instead, Benson strong sense of evangelism, leadership develop- rounded the red-and-white-stripped pillars, feared, “the rage for self-fulfillment…had now ment, Christian service, fellowship, and the while listening to the juke box, as well as spread to virtually the entire U.S. population.” expectation of full involvement in the life of the outside activities: horseback riding, swimming In response to this developing trend, the 1975 church. These early objectives have continued to talent shows, volleyball, roller skating, Bop ninth-to-twelfth-graders met twice a month for be guideposts for youth programs throughout Hops (with real DJs), and frequent exchange recreation and service projects. Holy Trinity’s 100-year history. visits to other Lutheran churches. The first recorded mention of Luther League Often devotions and program topics were at Holy Trinity is in the Church Council minutes followed by food and fellowship at various of August 1905. Since those early days, many of leaguers’ homes. Connie Tuttle (Olson), still Service opportunities included Holy Trinity’s youth have been influenced by active at Holy Trinity, remembers the League as working with mentally League and Youth Group membership, and “one big happy family”; indeed, she, like many recall their stories with enthusiasm. others, met her spouse of 45 years at Holy challenged persons, visiting Fred McGee recalls going to Luther League Trinity’s Luther League! Carol Diede Marme shut-in members, teaching in with his brother during the 1930s when Pastor remembers Luther League in the ‘50s as “the Bartsch was always present to both welcome center of my teen-aged world.” the Sunday Church School, youth and participate. Fred remembers the Bible office or church projects, and studies, plays and skits, youth “sermonettes,” SIBLINGS JACK AND Gail Hanson (Slarks) describe toboggan parties, hayrides, wiener roasts, belonging to a church singing their ‘60s League experiences as the highlight of picnics, “and the girls!” group. their week; being with many good friends; and, “On Sunday nights in the 1940s, Luther Gail remembers, those “really nice and fun League was your life,” recalls Lois Drury vicars” (pastors-in-training from Southern (Dreher). “Your new boyfriend or girlfriend had Seminary) and their wives acting as advisors. Of Service opportunities included working with to join, or they wouldn’t stay your sweetheart course, she continues, there was the man just mentally challenged persons, visiting shut-in for long.” The advisors were much-loved about every kid hoped would take them to the members, teaching in the Sunday Church seminarians Judd Lundquist and Charlie Barber “Canteen” for a hamburger, Pastor Wayne School, office or church projects, and belonging and their wives as well as Bob Bartsch among Wickoren. to a church singing group “to enable youth to the favorites. “I remember we scared one couple Bible studies, as well as ‘60s topics of social participate meaningfully in the life of the off,” confessed Lois. “I think they thought we and moral concern (Lutheran-Catholic differ- congregation and community.” In Pastor weren’t religious enough. But we all were active ences, the Jewish faith, drugs, service projects, Johnson’s 1977 Report of the Pastor, he ex- in teaching Sunday School, faithfully attending Beatnik-style poetry readings, and hootenanny pressed a concern for the participation of youth church services, singing in the choir, and very sing-alongs of anti-war and civil rights songs) in parish life, emphasizing the importance of involved in the life of Holy Trinity and our were common and well attended. Jack Hanson establishing strong fellowship bonds before the community. We were good kids.” recalls great discussion on topics such “Preju- Rite of Confirmation. Hopefully, confirmation The group was large (20 to 30 people) and dice: what should be my attitude toward classes and youth activities would create a kept growing. Each meeting included three segregation?”, led by Southern Seminary Vicar foundation and bond for continued and active essential elements: devotions; a topic, usually Ed Counts. involvement in their church and society. But dealing with Christian faith, missions, evange- reaching for and achieving these goals were not lism, or social issues; and recreation. Lois’ group one and the same. Our world and society were often went to Leaguer Mark Heggem’s house becoming more and more complex, with family for recreational fellowship. Between the paper Youth felt they were being and church—once partners in developing youth sales, picnics, softball games, winter camp, into responsible and contributing adults—now cards and board games, and community service heard, and their pastors not competing with a myriad of entertaining projects, the kids kept out of mischief! only listened to, but choices for present-day youth’s time and In 1958 Holy Trinity reached its membership enthusiastically worked and involvement. zenith at 4,801 members, so a large number of From the 1980s to the present time, youth youth were enlisted throughout the ‘50s. After played with them. group participation has been tied to confirma- Carl Bartsch’s death in April 1950, Pastor Paul tion requirements. In addition to the confirma- L. Graf was called to Holy Trinity and met with tion topics studied in the ‘50s and earlier Leaguers and adult sponsors to reorganize Holy During the 1960s Holy Trinity’s congregation (Luther’s Small Catechism, the Apostles’ Creed, Trinity’s one large high-school-through-adult- became divided. Factions arose, leading to staff the Sacraments, Ten Commandments, and The aged Luther League into three separate, inter- changes in 1969. A dynamic, innovative, and Lord’s Prayer), additional topics include the linked leagues. Throughout the early ‘50s, attentive team was needed to fill this void. study of current social issues such as hunger Pastors Graf and Wayne Wickoren, and parish Pastor David Gerberding and, later, Pastors and poverty, discrimination, and, more recently, workers Jan Nielsen (1951-56) and Gloria Sauke Roger Eigenfeld, Roger Johnson, and Thomas the influences of culture, media, music, and the (1956-69), led Holy Trinity’s Luther Leagues to Robison’s partnership began to do just that. Internet. Youth have also been presented with continued growth. The three leagues became so Many old ways were left behind, and new topics encouraging faith-based activism, large that they were reorganized into five traditions started, creating both satisfaction and including refugee resettlement, commitment to leagues, for seventh grade to college-aged concerns for long-time members. But, amidst all peace and justice, and the needs of homeless youth. this change, youth and adults alike could turn people. In addition to weekly confirmation Every The Community Church in the 1950s over their attendance card every Sunday and classes, youth continue to meet for monthly listed weekly Luther League plans, such as the express themselves honestly; all comments— events planned for students seventh through popular “Bible Quiz Bowls” and “Missions Page 10 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church twelfth grades. Intergenerational programs, As the population of the Longfellow neigh- academic responsibilities, said, “I like going to encouraging families to play and learn together, borhood has decreased from 33,000 in the 1940s youth events. I love Holy Trinity and feel are well attended. to about 20,000 according to the 2000 census, the comfortable with everybody there.” She noted attendance at youth events is now that opportunities such as being part of the smaller. In 2004 the number of Underground Railroad simulation, frequently young people typically attending serving meals at Simpson Shelter, participating youth events averages between five in the Holy Trinity Theatre Circle’s dramas, and and fifteen, including invited other quality offerings, as well as the good friends. Why? Interviews with friends she has made with both youth and some youth indicate that school- adults, place congregational youth events high work, sports, outside jobs, technol- on her list of choices. Kris Bogren, youth ogy, and a variety of other interests advisor in the 1990s, believes “kids need take precedence in their lives over mentored practice being adults and leaders…to church youth group activities. learn and practice responsibility for their Others, however, report that their community and themselves.” weekly Sunday morning and once- So those who are presently involved in Holy a-month youth group recreational Trinity’s youth programs are being offered that gatherings are important and same leadership development, sense of Chris- valuable to them. tian service, fellowship, and involvement in the Korla Masters, actively in- life of the church that was important to the volved in high school activities and founders of Luther League in 1895. Heifer Project participants traveled to Arkansas to learn about the —Sandy Hoverson roots of world hunger, August 2004. ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ Hoopin’ It Up The Church’s Gym Program What had been a Congregational Meeting Hall this sponsorship. was transformed into a gym in the 1940s when The gym, however, several members of Holy Trinity erected two continues to be used on plywood basketball backboards. To this day a regular basis. Liter- basketballs regularly bounce off these ally hundreds of backboards. children, from both the A Holy Trinity team practiced in this gym for church and the neigh- the Church Athletic Association, a city-wide borhood, have used the YMCA-sponsored organization that pitted gym over the past 55 church teams from the Minneapolis area against years. During the each other in competition in men’s basketball 1950s, when Holy and softball. Later, men’s and women’s volley- Trinity had its largest ball was added. membership, children The Holy Trinity team included a seven-foot had to have a member- 1931 basketball team posing on the front steps of Holy Trinity. center—a rarity in mid-century—named John ship card from the Pritchard. Needless to say, Holy Trinity won “H.T. Gym Program” to use the gym after young adults into the membership and other many basketball games in those days. school and on Saturdays. Adults used the gym activities of Holy Trinity over the years. It has The church was a strong competitor for more in the evenings. Men’s basketball has been been a strong asset to the ministry of Holy than 50 years, winning many championships in played on Thursday nights for most of the 55 Trinity. Those few members who put up the the Southtown Y Leagues, as well as in city- years that the backboards have been up, and backboards wanted to play basketball, but did wide tournaments. The YMCA started to continues to this day. so much more for the church than they could withdraw its support for the program during The gym program and participation in the ever have imagined. the 1990s, and the leagues disappeared without church leagues brought many children and —John Kelly

❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ Getting the “Lutefisk Fix” Community Events and Fundraisers

If the people of Holy Trinity had intentionally people do the same job year after planned to achieve the following three goals, year. Scott Cole and Ron Peterson they couldn’t have done a better job than two always prepare the lutefisk.” annual events—the Jul Bord and the Opportu- The Opportunity Sale is always nity Sale. held on a Saturday morning in ❈ To involve many Holy Trinity people October. “This event is aptly ❈ To involve a large number of people from named,” says Carol Kelly, who has the community also been in on the management ❈ To raise some funds for the church of this event. “It’s an opportunity The Jul Bord (in the Scandinavian languages it for Holy Trinity people to recycle means “Christmas Table”) began in 1980, using good and usable items, and for the kitchen and dining room at Trinity Apart- community people it’s an oppor- ments. The number of diners soon outgrew that tunity to buy useful items at a space, so the gym and kitchen at the church very reasonable price.” George Fantauzza and Ron Peterson preparing lutefisk for the Jul Bord. have been the home of the Jul Bord for the past The kinds of items donated and 20 years. But the menu remains that same, with sold include small home furnishings, dishes and after year and a total of about 75 people each a strong Swedish and Norwegian flavor, and kitchen ware, small appliances, books, games, year to do the set up and pricing before the sale includes lutefisk, meatballs, sausage, potatoes, tools, collectibles, and baked goods. “And each and all of the cashiers and helpers during the pickled beets, lefse, fruit soup, rice pudding, year some more valuable antiques and col- sale, according to Kathy. cole slaw, and huge trays of cookies. lectibles come in and these items are always Finally, the story won’t be complete without The number of people served on the second placed on a special table,” Carol explains. mentioning the income. According to Carol Saturday of December, has settled in at about So after all of the organizing and pricing, Kelly, the typical net income from each Jul Bord 600 people each year. “And they come from all during the two days prior to the sale, on Satur- is $3,000 to $4,000; from the Opportunity Sale over the metro area plus any other Minnesota day morning the rows and rows of tables in the it’s $2,500 to $3,500, which includes some town with lots of Scandinavians,” says Carol gym are all full and stacked high, with over- matching funds from Lutheran Brotherhood. Kelly, who has managed this event every year. flow on the floor under the tables—all ready for With a combined average of more than $6,000 “One year a fellow even flew in from Califor- the crowds of bargain seekers. each year over a 20-year period, these two nia for a good lutefisk fix,” Carol proudly In recent years we’ve noticed a growing events amount to almost $120,000! added. “And we always welcome people back number of immigrant and newcomer families at The Church Council decides the use of these for seconds, thirds, or more.” our sale, says Kathy Hollander, who now is funds each year, with some used for the annual “With a willing crew of a hundred or more heavily involved in managing this event. budget and the rest designated for the World church volunteers, the Jul Bord is always And like the Jul Bord, the Opportunity Sale Hunger fund. anticipated as a fun time of excitement and involves a large number of Holy Trinity —Carol Kelly fellowship,” Carol explained. “And many of our people—with a core of 30 some people year

100th Anniversary Page 11 A Welcome Table Hospitality is a Key to Congregational Sustenance

❈ Since its inception Holy Trinity English Christmas parties were held at Lutheran Church has supplied meals to people members’ homes with refresh- as a means of supporting fellowship and ments. ❈ community. Who can say how far back in the In 1950, Sunday School workers life of the church food and fellowship have gone had a supper meeting to plan together? The provision of food has always been the Sunday School program. ❈ a nurturing and necessary activity. In addition, A Fathers and Sons Banquet having a meal provided has generally made it was sponsored by the Men’s easier to gain members’ attendance and atten- Club in 1950. There was also a tion. Mothers and Daughters Ban- Many events, whether business meetings, quet which was “limited to 300 political events, or fellowship events, have had guests with a splendid dinner.” ❈ a meal component; the persons who provide the Julia Brandanger, Holy Trinity’s food have been diligent behind-the-scenes housekeeper from 1953 to 1977 workers. Since this form of service to others “prepared and served many of usually provides the backdrop for an event or the smaller dinners and as- Carol Kelly and Carolyn Bjelland project, it is unlikely that our church history sorted groups with larger lists all the contributions of food for gatherings, dinners.” ❈ ❈ Progressive Dinners held at member’s meetings, projects, work days, and so on. Coffee hour in the Sky Room in 1968 included coffee and treats. Coffee hours homes began in the early 1990s. They were have probably always been part of a an evening of fellowship and nourishment, church’s community-building, and Holy as well as a chance to see other people’s Married Couples group also Trinity has held them for years. homes. Progressive dinners continue to be had a popular Chow Mein ❈ An Evangelism dinner was held in January very well attended and are currently held 1969 to gather names of “prospects for about twice a year. ❈ Supper for only $1.00 per plate. church membership.” Again, this was a April 1994 saw the first of several potluck Afterward a “panel of so-called combination of feeding people while setting suppers held at the church with the enter- out to accomplish the goals of the church. tainment provided by a member’s talent Hippies who will discuss ‘The ❈ Married Couples group also had a popular show. ❈ Psychedelic Drop-out’ and will Chow Mein Supper for only $1.00 per plate. A Heritage Potluck occurred in October attempt to explain their Afterward a “panel of so-called Hippies 1994. People share a dish that reflected their who will discuss ‘The Psychedelic Drop- heritage and ate together after the second philosophy of life.” out’ and will attempt to explain their service. ❈ philosophy of life.” One can only guess how Two brunches have been held for quite a controversial this may have been! few years, primarily attended by women of the church. They are held at Advent and in Gatherings have a social, as well the spring. as a stated, purpose. When Holy ❈ A 20s and 30s group began in the early Trinity has enabled people to meet 1990s to serve the interests of a young others and fostered a sense of group of people. This gave an opportunity community, we have practiced to get together, attend the theater, or just hospitality and helped people to talk. see that they are not separated from the love of God. This has always been part of the mission of the church. The Minnesota Meal began in Gatherings over the years have taken many forms: 1995. Members gather together ❈ In addition to providing “food for a potluck and fellowship for the needy,” individuals and around potluck dishes using groups prepared food for friends who were sick, for only Minnesota-grown food. funerals, and for celebrations. ❈ In May 1913, it was reported that the Ladies’ Aid Society ❈ The Minnesota Meal began in 1995. Mem- was involved in cleaning the The tradition continues of serving coffee following each church service. bers gather together for a potluck and church, making quilts, and fellowship around potluck dishes using preparing food for the needy. ❈ only Minnesota-grown food. ❈ For 60 cents in 1949, the Women’s Mission- Ethnic dinners (Ethiopian and Vietnamese) ary Society held a meeting with “prizes and were held in the 1990s with representative good food.” cultural food served and some kind of MANY OF THE events listed have become tradi- ❈ Congregational picnics began early on for presentation during the evening. tional events and have been held over and over ❈ Sunday School children and adults. In more Lenten soup suppers were being served in again for years. What is incredibly evident recent years, picnics were held at a local 1993. Volunteers made soup and people about Holy Trinity Church is that the social and park and on the church mall area. could eat before attending the service. informative programs, meetings, and suppers ❈ ❈ Dinner was supplied to canvassers visiting “Dialogue breakfasts” were a more aca- have been varied and interesting. We have an congregational members to collect pledges demic or political forum encouraging active and inquiring membership which de- for the church. learning and discussion. Breakfast was lights in an array of opportunities to interact. served and some of our most interesting The provision of opportunities to interact, to speakers were invited to present. engage in fellowship, is one that affords every- ❈ Women of the ELCA held a one the chance to relate. To be supported and to salad luncheon in May 1993. support others, to be heard and to hear others Entertainment was offered allows us to better support our church because by the Creekside Crickets, we feel part of a family. The role of social consisting of 25 fiddlers, dinners and other fellowship events is not ukuleles, banjos, and insignificant. When people feel related to others violins. it is a direct support of church ministry because ❈ A “Family Retreat Week- it allows us to realize the connections we have end” occurred in May 1993 to each other and to God. also. These are excellent —Stephanie Cole opportunities for people to relax, get to know others, and get in some recreation. This retreat was near Lanesboro and featured biking, canoeing, exploring caves, Amish tours, and Sunday brunch. Irene Blodgett and Ann Mae Finsveen

Page 12 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Engaged and Active The Church as Public Participant

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church has long recog- years. Services of commitment have been held nized its responsibility to engage the world on at Holy Trinity and celebrated by congrega- issues that affect the life of the community. As tional members. [T]his commitment to the the Protestant movement has declined in power The ELCA church-wide does not yet welcome vulnerable in our society is an and stature in recent decades, that participation gay and lesbian people in entirety. And the important thread within the life has often meant speaking truth to power. current political climate has state and federal governments considering legislation to restrict of the Holy Trinity community. the lives of these individuals. Holy Trinity as a Welcome has long been a congregation has made public statements through congregational and synodical action in When the State of Minnesota initiated legisla- charism of Holy Trinity. support of extending the rights of gay and tion allowing the carrying of concealed weap- lesbian people. ons by citizens, Holy Trinity participated with Holy Trinity has also been involved in advo- many other congregations to defeat this legisla- cating and organizing for a more fair and tion. When it was none-the-less passed into law, Welcome has long been a charism of Holy balanced state budget as it pertains to funding Trinity. Whether welcoming displaced persons Holy Trinity and Edina Community Church programs that address the needs of those on the initiated legal action to stop the implementation or refugees, economically vulnerable neighbors, margins. Resources have been developed and people with disabilities, or children, the congre- of the law. A majority of Minnesotans had circulated, speakers had informed, and resolu- significant hesitations about this policy, but few gation has believed that all are welcome. That is tions have called upon synodical leadership to true as well for people of all sexual orientation institutions challenged directly the law. A group address these issues. of churches and religious groups were forced to and gender identities. The Religious Alliance for a Just Global In the mid-1980s Holy Trinity adopted a find a prophetic voice to challenge this law. Economy, a group of religious leaders from the Whether speaking out about reservations strong position by becoming a Reconciling in community that addressed issues of interna- Christ Congregation, thus welcoming gay or about the value of increased gambling or tional trade and workers’ rights, began at Holy defending the rights of refugees, this commit- lesbian persons at all levels of participation. Trinity in the mid-1990s, as more congregations While fidelity in relationship is emphasized in ment to the vulnerable in our society is an looked at the sweatshop conditions of many important thread within the life of the Holy congregational life, the gender of one’s partner international workers. Eventually this group is not. And people who self-identify as gay or Trinity community. Flowing out of the evolved into the Twin Cities Religion and Labor community’s worship and ethical discussion, lesbian have held virtually all leadership Network, and added domestic workers rights positions within the congregation in recent this commitment to justice is bedrock to Holy issues to its agenda. Trinity. —Bob Hulteen

State Representative Jim Davnie and Council Member Gary Schiff discuss city housing policy with the congregation, 2003.

❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ Additional stories can be found on the Holy Trinity website www.htlcmpls.org ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈

100th Anniversary Page 13 Holy Trinity Youth Called to Ordained Ministry*

Family connections to Holy Trinity Education Career stops along the way

Raymond Johnson, ordained at parents, Edwin and Hilma Johnson Roosevelt H.S. •a church in Missouri near Omaha Holy Trinity about 1940 Augsburg College •Swanberg Lutheran Church, Brainerd lak Luther Northwestern Seminary •Faith Lutheran Church, Cross Lake (Ray established this church while at Sw Lutheran Church) •Gethsemene Lutheran Church, Uppsala, M

James Bartsch, ordained at parents, Carrie and Carl Bartsch South H.S. • Military Chaplain Holy Trinity in 1945 Augsburg College • Mt. Zion Lutheran Church, Wauwatosa, W Luther Northwestern Seminary • First Lutheran Church, San Bernadino, C • Bethany Lutheran Church, Scottsdale, A

Robert Bartsch, ordained at parents, Carrie and Carl Bartsch South H.S. • Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Milwauke Holy Trinity in 1949 Augsburg College • A Lutheran church in Wisconsin Dells Luther Northwestern Seminary • Redemption Lutheran Church, Wauwatos

Tom Warme, ordained at parents, Martin and Signe Warme South H.S. • Mission development in Detroit the Synod Assembly in Augsburg College • St. Marks Lutheran Church, Neenah, WI Grand Forks in 1960 Luther Northwestern Seminary • Army Chaplain, a 26-year career • Messiah Lutheran Church, Alexandria, V

George Cruys, ordained at parents, Mae and George Cruys South H.S. • Lengby Lutheran, a three-point parish in the Synod Assembly at Augsburg College NW Minnesota Gustavus College in 1963 Luther Northwestern Seminary • St. Marks Lutheran Church, Fargo, ND • Richfield Lutheran Church, Richfield, M • Trinity Lutheran Church, Lindstrom, MN • Mt. Carmel Lutheran Church, Minneapol

James Sheldon, ordained by mother Elsie Sheldon, and Roosevelt H.S. • Zion/St. James parishes in Virginia the Minnesota Synod in 1967 foster parents Nellie and University of Minnesota • St. Timothy Lutheran Church, Roanoke, V Oscar Russell Newberry College • Messiah Lutheran Church, Virginia Beach Southern Luther Seminary • Trinity/Emmanuel Lutheran, Rochester, N • Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Ro

Robert Englund, ordained at parents, Chester and Kathryn Roosevelt H.S. • Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Hibbing, the Minnesota Synod Assembly (Englund) Nevers University of Minnesota • Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, St. Paul, MN at Gustavus Adolphus College Luther Northwestern Seminary • Lebanon Lutheran Church, Minneapolis, in 1970 • Interim ministry assignments to the pres

Tom Johnson, ordained at parents, Kenny and Evelyn Johnson Roosevelt H.S. • Mountain View Lutheran Church, Phoen Holy Trinity in 1983 University of Minnesota • Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Fontana, CA Pacific Luther Seminary • Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Covina Claremont School of Theology (current call) • Adjunct Instructor, Claremont School of

Stacy K. Johnson, ordained at parents, Barbara and Ron Johnson South H.S •Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Minneapo Holy Trinity in 1998 Macalester College Vacation Church School coordinator Lutheran School of Theology • Evangelical Lutheran Church, Osseo, WI Garrett Evangelical Seminary • Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Minneapo at Northwestern University (current call) • Adjunct Instructor, Luther Seminary *partial listing—please contact Holy Trinity if you have any addition information (www.htlcmpls.org or 612-729-8358).

A Love for People and Work said, “Very simple; he loved people and he The Ministry of Carl Bartsch loved to work. He was never home very much and he didn’t take many days off. Certainly he “Bartsch’s Church”—that is how people on Holy Trinity had about 700 members in 1917. was interested in the welfare of his family, but Lake Street referred to Holy Trinity during the In 1925 that number had grown to 1,584 mem- he was the most dedicated person to his church 1930s and 1940s. Carl Bartsch had a very strong bers. At the height of the Depression member- and its ministry I have ever known.” presence among a great many people in this ship was 2,200 members. When World War II Fred McGee, now in his 90s and a Holy neighborhood. But to the hundreds, and then began, Holy Trinity had 3,038 members. When Trinity member for most of his life, once said of thousands, of people of Holy Trinity, Rev. Carl Carl Bartsch died in 1950 at 61 years old, 3,679 Bartsch’s style of evangelism: “Out on the street, Bartsch was their beloved pastor, friend, and people were registered as members. when he shook your hand, he didn’t let go until confidant. He was truly the shepherd of their And, to give an additional sense of reality he had you in church!” “He was very animated flock. during those 30 some years, the neighborhoods when he preached and he sure didn’t need a In 1917, Carl Bartsch, then at a parish in around Holy Trinity were rapidly filling with loud speaker,” Pat McGee recalled. Winnipeg, accepted Holy Trinity’s call. For the lots of young families and children, together “The all-important themes of my father’s next 33 years, until his death in 1950, he was the with many new schools, parks, libraries, movie ministry were bringing people to church, only Holy Trinity pastor. theaters, and both retail shops and professional stewardship and tithing, and benevolence services. giving,” Jim Bartsch recalled. “He preached Families and children, tithing again and again, and we both became who needed a church home, life-long tithers,” added Evelyn and Kenny were readily available; and Johnson. Carl Bartsch was up to the “He was so caring,” recalled Lola Peterson. task of inviting them in. He “Once when Don was at the drugstore to get a spent innumerable hours prescription filled for our daughter Nancy, who trying to bring as many was very ill, Pastor Bartsch was there too at the members as possible to Holy soda fountain. He invited Don to share his ice Trinity—week by week, cream and soon both of them were home and month by month, year by beside Nancy’s bed in prayer.” year, and decade by decade. Jim Bartsch, Carl’s only MORE THAN ONE person recalled that when surviving son and himself a Pastor Bartsch made home calls, if he smelled pastor, when asked what his something good in the kitchen, he went right in father was like and what to taste whatever was on the stove…“all the made him a successful pastor, while continuing his conversation about Holy Pastor Bartsch with 1927 confirmation class. Page 14 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Miller, and Joseph Keeping the Faith Wagner. Other The Ministry of Pastor Paul seminary students At Present Graf who worked within the congregation Ray and wife Carmen have included Charles kes area, MN both passed away Holy Trinity called Paul L. Graf as its senior pastor in 1950, following the death of Dr. Carl Barber, Roy Guinn, Bill Horn, John wanberg Bartsch. Pastor Graf was born in 1914 to John Henry Graf, who was a professor at Thiel Lundquist, and Don Rieckers. MN College in Greenville, Pennsylvania. In 1937, Paul Graf came with his wife, Ruth Baer Graf, A number of young people raised Jim and wife Rilla Mae are and son, Paul, to northeast Minneapolis to in the congregation WI retired and live in Scottsdale, study Lutheran theology at Northwestern during Pastor Graf’s CA Arizona Theological Seminary. He arrived at a time of years at Holy Trinity Rev. Paul L. Graf AZ tremendous growth in the English Lutheran Church and fulfilled his father’s desire to chose careers in the Lutheran church ministry: Rev. George Cruys, ee, WI Bob died at the age of 39 support what was then a new seminary in the upper Midwest. The seminary eventually Rev. Robert Englund, Rev. Glen Flo, Rev. Tom Johnson, Gloria B. Sauke (Certified Lay Profes- s, WI moved to the Pillsbury House in Minneapolis. During his seminary years, Graf served as a sional), Rev. James Sheldon, and Rev. Tom Warme. Tom and wife Bunny are student assistant to Dr. Paul Wetzler, pastor of The Grafs complemented one another in their retired and live in Salem English Lutheran Church. Because he service to the congregation. Mrs. Graf became a Roanoke, Virginia came from Thiel College, he had strong ties to, vital part of Holy Trinity, establishing and VA and was mentored by, others with Pennsylvania Lutheran connections: Pastors Douglas Roth, heading the toddler department, leading Sunday School worship for the children, n George and wife Janet are David Gerberding, Paul Wetzler, and others. involving herself in Lutheran Church Women retired and live in New Pastor Graf’s ministry spanned nineteen years (LCW) activities and offering rides to many of Brighton, Minnesota at Holy Trinity, from 1950 to 1969. His ministry the women. She was active in the Northwestern MN was an energetic and committed continuation of Seminary and Deaconess Hospital Auxiliaries. N the original church vision established in 1904 Pastor and Mrs. Graf raised six children lis and of the leadership provided by his predeces- sor, Dr. Carl Bartsch. During Graf’s tenure, the together: Paul L. Graf II, James (Jim) Graf, Karen Graf Huebner, Kristin Graf Skulstad, Jim and wife Marcia are south Minneapolis community was stable, with Ruth Anne Graf Peterson, and Jon A. Graf. Paul VA retired and live in Pittsfield, many single-family homes populated by II married Holy Trinity member Ruth Jackman. h New York members who were educated and employed. In February 1968, Jim married Caron Gutwinski NY Under Graf’s leadership, a four-story educa- at Holy Cross Catholic Church by special ochester, NY tion wing was added to the church, complete with an elevator that led friends to teasingly permission of the Vatican. The marriage was only the second such “mixed marriage” in the MN Rob and wife Sharon live inquire, “So, you think you’ll get your people Twin Cities and garnered considerable press N in Minneapolis into heaven with an elevator?!” The Bartsch coverage. , MN Memorial Chapel was built and daily worship The Graf children fondly remember their sent time was held in it. A day activity center for persons with developmental disabilities began under father’s progressiveness, his firm discipline (often followed by a twinkle and a smile); his nix, AZ Tom and wife Mary, Pastor Graf, as well as preschool and daycare devotion to God, church, and family (in that A Nathaniel, and Annalisa live services. Start-up funds were collected for an order); his self-deprecating sense of humor; and a, CA in Covina, California apartment complex for senior citizens. And the music program was recognized as one of his fine abilities as a host at both church and home. Theology excellence. Graf loved to sing and was known to favor church Christmas music throughout the Pastor Graf’s children recall that their father held three-hour Good Friday afternoon services. olis, MN Stacy, husband Christopher year. On Easter Sunday, he established a special Myers (UCC pastor), and Under Pastor Graf’s leadership, the member- baptismal commemoration service that filled Andrew, Matthew, and Kathryn ship of Holy Trinity grew to 2,633 by 1960. The the sanctuary. Christmas-time was an occasion olis, MN live in River Falls, Wisconsin congregation supported 11 women’s circles, five Luther League groups, three-year catechetical for Pastor Graf’s annual smorgasbord at home classes, and even a Stamp Club directed by Stan for the Church Council and their spouses. And Helcinski. In Pastor Graf’s day, the local utility at Easter, the Graf children recollect that their companies supplied pastors with names and father wrote and delivered two different addresses of new neighborhood residents, a sermons so that the choir didn’t have to hear the boon to outreach efforts. Pastor Graf and his same one twice! Pastor Graf wrote his sermons Trinity,” said Anna and Bob Butler. “He usually staff made the effort to call on each one of them, at the dining room table on Saturday nights. had candy in his pocket and kids would just extending an invitation to visit and join the The Grafs remember their father as a forward - reach in and help themselves,” added Fred church. thinking man who considered all sides of an McGee. Graf was an enthusiastic, articulate preacher. issue. “He could call everyone by his or her name He placed great emphasis on stewardship and Pastor Graf ultimately held pastorates and and would do so both before and after each tithing. Holy Trinity ranked third in benevolent other positions at Faith Lutheran, Walters, MN; Sunday service,” said Jim Bartsch. giving in the national Lutheran Church body. Trinity Lutheran, Kenosha, WI; the Northwest Speaking about Bartsch’s administrative style, Between 1950 and 1970, Holy Trinity members Synod (ULCA) staff (stewardship secretary); the son Jim said, “Dad was a take-charge kind-of- showed extraordinary commitment to support Minneapolis Synod; and Lutheran Social guy and would take the leadership in any of the church at large. From 1950 to 1960, 2,710 Services of Minnesota, as well as at Holy Trinity. decision-making process. He also had a good new members joined the congregation, and by He is particularly remembered by members of sense of the prevailing mood of the people and 1960, the confirmed membership had grown the “Sewing Club” group (a post-Luther League knew what direction to take.” from 2,218 to 3,003 under Graf’s tenure. group of 50-years’ standing) as a good preacher About his mother, Jim Bartsch said, “Mrs. Pastor Graf was active in the Lutheran who touched them personally with his humor Carrie Bartsch is remembered as being a tal- Church on a national scale. He served as and sense of inclusion. ented musician, a very funny comedian and President of the United Lutheran Church in —Gloria B. Sauke mimic of popular personalities, a good America (ULCA) Board of World Missions, helpmate in her husband’s career, and a great traveling to mission fields and forging close ties mother by their three sons.” Anna Butler added, between Holy Trinity and its various missionar- “Carrie Bartsch learned to drive after Pastor ies, including Martin and Winona Ruccius in Bartsch died, because she wanted to have her Liberia, and Douglas and Joan Erickson in ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ own independence.” China. Graf was a member of the Minneapolis Quoting from The Community Church of April Council of Churches, a convener of the confer- Additional stories can be 23, 1950, Dr. Paul Roth, who had preached the ence of pastors of large Lutheran churches, and sermon at Carl Bartsch’s funeral ten days served as finance chair of the Lutheran World found on the earlier, said, “The whole community his church Federation Assembly. Holy Trinity website served has long ago learned to know him, as he During the years of Pastor Graf’s ministry at moved through the streets and homes of South Holy Trinity, and because of his prior ties to Dr. www.htlcmpls.org Minneapolis. Men, women, and children all Robert Roth of Southern Seminary in Columbia, ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ knew Pastor Bartsch and loved him. His heart- South Carolina, a number of students came to warming smile, his sympathy, and kindness Holy Trinity to serve their internship year as won a love for him that few have possessed in one-year vicars. Graf mentored Ed Counts, Scott the history of our city’s churches.” Hendrix, Robert Kepley, John Merk, Hollis —Bill Milbrath 100th Anniversary Page 15 In Touch with the Times…and the Kids The Ministry of Wayne Wickoren And I will raise you up on eagle’s wings, bear you on Summer camp at Chisago Lakes Camp the breath of dawn, make you to shine like the sun, and Luther League National Conven- and hold you in the palm of my hand. (WOV 779) tions. Each summer Holy Trinity youth would fill up at least one week at our The orderly walked into the University of synod’s camp near Chisago City. These Minnesota Hospital room of Pastor Carl weeks were led by Pastor Wayne and Bartsch. The two talked together for some time. other leaders from Holy Trinity. Pastor Dr. Bartsch lay seriously ill, drawing close to the Wayne also served as chaplain at end of a long life of service to God. Most Lutheridge Camp in Arden, North recently, Dr. Bartsch was Holy Trinity’s pastor of Carolina, for three summers and was many years. Dr. Bartsch requested the continu- the pastoral advisor for the synodical ing services of this orderly. Luther League organization. He helped The orderly—Wayne Harland Wickoren—and form the national youth worker/ Pastor Wickoren engages Luther Leaguers. the pastor struck up a close friendship over pastors organization. church bodies and congregations. The struggle those days at the hospital, until Dr. Bartsch In addition, as a part of his call, Pastor Wayne for civil rights in our country was intensifying. succumbed to his illness. This brief relationship visited all of the home-bound members every The possibility of our country going to war in was to shape the course of Wayne Wickoren’s month. He also taught confirmation classes and some far off country called Viet Nam was life in many ways. preached and presided at worship regularly. becoming more real. Folks were leaving cities, When he was a student at Augsburg College, Pastor Wayne’s achievement as a pastor of the including South Minneapolis, for the suburbs Wayne decided to enter seminary to prepare for Lutheran church did not go unnoticed. A and beyond. the ministry. In 1950 he enrolled at Northwest- number of other congregations throughout the This turbulence also was experienced in the ern Lutheran Theological Seminary, located larger church became interested in calling him. life of our congregation. How should Holy near the Minneapolis Institute of Arts close to Among these congregations was Trinity Trinity be serving our immediate neighborhood downtown. Lutheran Church, Manhattan Beach, California, and its residents? Should our resources be spent Wayne Wickoren was born on October 11, which extended a call to Pastor Wayne in the on bricks and mortar or on people? These were 1926, in McLeod, North Dakota, the son of spring of 1957, barely four years after his the kinds of questions Holy Trinity was facing. Millard and Mary Wickoren. Wayne began his coming to Holy Trinity. In June 1968 Pastor Wayne was instrumental education in a small, rural school; attended high After prayerful consideration, Pastor Wayne in beginning a new outreach program called school at Oak Grove Lutheran Academy in accepted the call to Manhattan Beach, resigned “Thee Corner.” A used car lot and building on Fargo, North Dakota; and came to Minneapolis his call at Holly Trinity in June 1957, and the northeast corner of 28th Avenue and Lake to study at Augsburg College. departed in August. With great sadness Holy Street had become available and the “Thee Shortly after beginning seminary, Wayne Trinity said farewells that summer. Corner” was born. It was a joint youth program became a member of Holy Trinity and took on In the months that followed, many members of Holy Trinity and St. Albert Catholic Parish. responsibilities as a student assistant. Wayne and leaders in our congregation became very During this time Pastor Wayne was also in- was ordained on May 20, 1953, having received concerned about what would happen to all of volved in numerous social action programs. a call from Holy Trinity to be an assistant pastor, the youth programs and, more importantly, to Turmoil in the life of our congregation culmi- with special emphasis on youth ministry and all of the youth who had grown so close to nated in the resignations of Pastor Paul Graf in parish visitation. Pastor Wayne. January 1969, and Pastor Wayne three months Pastor Wayne began his service in our congre- In July 1958, Pastor Wayne was invited back later. Large numbers of the congregation turned gation in June of that year, and was officially to Holy Trinity. He preached at worship on out on both occasions in support of Holy installed on July 12, 1953. The Rev. Dr. A.C.M. Sunday, July 13. Following that reunion, Holy Trinity’s two pastors. Ahlen, Professor of Systematic Theology and Trinity took an action rarely seen in the church: Following his ministry at Holy Trinity, Pastor Dean of the seminary, preached at Pastor It extended a second call to Pastor Wayne, Wayne served in congregations in Harris, Wayne’s service of installation. asking him to return to Holy Trinity as an Minnesota; Tucson, Arizona; Philadelphia, In reading through Holy Trinity’s weekly associate pastor, with responsibility for youth Pennsylvania; and Houston, Texas; as well as an newsletter—The Community Church—for those ministry and Christian education. In September interim pastor in many other congregations first years, one notices the enormity of the call Pastor Wayne accepted this call and returned to throughout the country. Pastor Wayne took on. The congregation was Minneapolis to begin again at Holy Trinity on In May 2003 Pastor Wayne was recognized for growing, particularly with young families and October 15, 1958. 50 years of service to God and the church at a children. The newly completed Bartsch Educa- In the years that followed, Holy Trinity two-day event in Minneapolis. Hundreds of tional Center was one of the largest additions of continued to provide a spiritual home for many current and former members of Holy Trinity, as its kind in the early 1950s. families in the Longfellow and surrounding well as friends from all over the country, turned Holy Trinity’s youth ministry program was neighborhoods in South Minneapolis. The out to honor and to express love for Pastor booming. Pastor Wayne’s love for young youth and educational programs of the congre- Wayne, who has been such a special part of the people—people of all ages actually—was at the gation attracted large numbers of young lives of so many persons. center of his approach to youth ministry. As persons into the early ‘60s. Sustained on the wings of God’s grace and busy as his days were, Pastor Wayne was rarely held in the palm of God’s hand, Pastor Wayne too busy to make time for others. BY THE MIDDLE of the ‘60s, the winds of continues to live out his love for God and God’s change began to blow through our society and people everywhere in his inimitable, person- TWO PARTICULAR FEATURES of Holy Trinity’s youth culture, our cities and neighborhoods, our able, and engaging way. program in the 1950s and 1960s stand out: schools and community organizations, our —Rev. Rob Englund ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈

The Healing Begins meant that there would be no Team Ministry in the 1970s designation as senior pastor or associate pastor, for example, Pastor David Gerberding arrived at Holy Trinity although one person would in February 1970. Soon after accepting a call, have the responsibility of staff Gerberding and the church council assembled a coordinator. competent and sizable staff, including Rod But even good things Bohline, parish administrator, March 1970; sometimes come to an end. Roger Eigenfeld, pastor, July 1970; Howard With many high hopes and Taminen, education director, August 1970; and expectations, the financial Roger Johnson, pastor, January 1971. outcomes could not be sus- At Holy Trinity the congregation numbered tained. As indicated by David several thousand, but with divided loyalties. So, Gerberding in 1972, “Our hope Holy Trinity Staff, 1967. Back row: Charles Svang (?), Phil Schumacher, Philip with determination and purpose, this new staff was to strengthen the pro- Brunelle, Pastor Wilbur Harmony, Pastor Paul Graf, Pastor Wayne Wickoren, and the council sought to develop strong grams of Holy Trinity so that Oscar Ostrom. Front row: Clare Nelson, Julia Brandanger, Florence programs of preaching, teaching, and service to the approximately 600 people Scheuerman, Anna Butler, Gloria Sauke, Kay Hencinski. solidify this membership base as soon as who did not transfer their Gerberding then left for St. James Lutheran in possible. membership, but remained outside our activi- Burnsville in 1973. Rod Bohline, parish adminis- Accordingly, early in the months of ties, would again become active.” trator, continued on for several more years. Gerberding’s tenure, he and the council devel- Obviously this did not happen, so staff down- So, in the final outcome, the people of Holy oped the concept of the team ministry and sizing began and continued: Howard Taminen Trinity did pretty well and the best they could. announced it in the Community Church as to the Saint Paul Schools, Roger Eigenfeld to St. It wasn’t easy, but there were many bright, follows: “All pastors and professional staff Andrew’s Lutheran in Mahtomedi, and Roger joyful, and hopeful times. And the dawn of a would have as full a ministry of preaching, Johnson to Trinity Lutheran of Lindstrom. new day at Holy Trinity would again appear teaching, calling, counseling, and administering Meanwhile, newly ordained Tom Robison over that horizon. as desire, time, and strength permit.” This was called to Holy Trinity in 1972 and David —Bill Milbrath Page 16 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church An Eye Toward the Future Pastor Ron Johnson’s Vision for Holy Trinity Pastor Ronald K. Johnson arrived at Holy Johnson’s eye to the future Trinity in 1974 as the new pastor for the congre- reflects much of his past work at gation. For the past 30 years, he has been the Holy Trinity as well, a continuity central force in creating and implementing all of ministry from 1974 through aspects of Holy Trinity’s life and mission. Far 2004. Rather than list his accom- from resting on his laurels, however, Pastor plishments and milestones of the Johnson continues to have an eye toward the past three decades, Pastor future and an eagerness to keep moving in that Johnson’s forward-looking direction to build a better Holy Trinity. outlook reflects both our yester- Ronald Karl Johnson grew up in Illinois, with day and Holy Trinity’s tomor- roots in the Augustana Synod, the Lutheran row. church body founded by Swedish immigrants When asked where Holy in America. He graduated from Augustana Trinity might go in the future, College in Rock Island, Illinois, and in 1963 Pastor Johnson foresees these graduated from the Lutheran School of Theol- potential initiatives: Christian Lutakana, Mrs. Lutakana, Ernest Lutashobya, and Ron Johnson in ogy, then also located in Rock Island. Pastor • Housing: A major effort of Tanzania, ca. 1996. Johnson was ordained in May of 1964 by the Holy Trinity’s over the past 30 years has fo- Johnson could foresee Holy Trinity perhaps Illinois Synod at Evanston, Illinois. cused on creating safe, affordable housing for meeting the child care needs of the Somali He received a call as Secretary to Bishop the community through the construction of community, and building a partnership of Bengt Sundkler in Tanzania, Africa, where he Trinity Apartments, the new Trinity-on-Lake Christian and Islamic communities here to meet lived and worked and became familiar with apartment building, and the Habitat for Hu- the child care needs of both. Tanzania, its culture and people, and the work manity home that Holy Trinity constructed on • Social-Political-Economic Justice Issues: of the Lutheran church bodies there. His Snelling Avenue with St. Peder’s Lutheran Holy Trinity has emphasized social, political, interests in Tanzania, global mission work, Church. Pastor Johnson envisions that housing and economic justice issues in the past. Pastor social justice, and ecumenical work would will continue to be a priority in the future, by Johnson envisions Holy Trinity continuing to continue through his years at Holy Trinity as working to continue making the facilities good, work on these issues in the community, includ- well. functioning communities. Perhaps, he says, ing a stronger participation in the Longfellow another housing project could be in the future, Community Council. too. • Moral and Ethical Discourse: Holy Trinity Pastor Johnson foresees that Holy • Hispanic Ministry: Minneapolis in general, has worked to position itself as a place where Trinity could perhaps meet the and the Longfellow community specifically, will moral and ethical discourse has been encour- continue to have a significant Hispanic constitu- aged and heard. Pastor Johnson believes that child care needs of the Somali ency for some time. Meeting the needs of this Holy Trinity can strengthen its commitment to community by building a population will constitute a large, long-term be a place where this discourse can occur, a task. Pastor Johnson believes that it will be place for dialogue on the issues of the day. partnership of Christian and exciting to figure out how to serve this third • Lots of Surprises: Holy Trinity will be in for Islamic communities here to meet worshiping community at Holy Trinity, and to lots of surprises in the coming years, Pastor the child care needs of both. integrate the Swahili-, English-, and Spanish- Johnson predicts. And that’s one of the reasons speaking communities into a whole. that the future of Holy Trinity will be so excit- • New Programmatic Responses: Providing ing. good, affordable child care has been a priority at Pastor Johnson then received a call to serve this congregation for many years. With Holy churches in Chicago. Under his leadership, Trinity recently pulling back somewhat from the Thirty years after his arrival, Messiah Lutheran and Trinity Lutheran merged child care program, other opportunities may Pastor Ronald Johnson still has to become Resurrection Lutheran Church. He arise for our congregation. Child care could continued his pastoral work in Chicago for certainly be one opportunity, Pastor Johnson his eye on an exciting future in nearly 10 years before coming to Holy Trinity, believes, but right now the demographics seem store for our congregation. arriving for his first Sunday on September 1, to be at odds with moving strongly ahead on 1974. He and his wife, Barbara, and children, child care again. Perhaps a senior day program Stacy (now Holy Trinity’s other pastor), Sally, could be started, or the new mental health SO, THIRTY YEARS after his arrival, Pastor Andrew, Ben, and Joshua, soon became vital center could be expanded. The community will Johnson—who has done so much to forge the participants in the life of the congregation. change, and Holy Trinity must be able to last three decades of Holy Trinity’s history—still respond to the needs that present themselves. has his eye on an exciting future in store for our • Somali Community: The relatively new PASTOR JOHNSON CAME looking ahead to the congregation. Holy Trinity has been blessed by Somali immigrant community in Minneapolis future when he first arrived at Holy Trinity, and his leadership during these years. presents another possible opportunity. Pastor he continues to do so to this day. Pastor —Kevin Proescholdt ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ The Intersection of Faith and Daily Life Additional stories can be The Ministry of Stacy K. Johnson found on the In many ways, the life of faith is concerned with creator and humanity as co-creator. We are Holy Trinity website interpretation. One role for the faith community participating in God’s image as we strive to www.htlcmpls.org is that of helping adherents find their angle, or strengthen our communities through our ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ angles, of vision. And the role of the pastor is creative activity.” often to encourage those exploring a life of faith In a discussion or sermon, she is likely to to expand the angles from which they can see, quote theologians such as Walter Brueggeman one of the many ways pastors deepen the faith or Douglas John Hall, making their words of the church. accessible to the hearer. Her love of teaching The Community Church Rev. Stacy K. Johnson challenged herself to and learning is tangible. And she incorporated and Team Ministry - 1970s find new angles of vision while a seminarian this passion into her ministry by teaching and graduate school student. Jack Seymour, a courses in Christian education methodology as ❈ “Monday Morning’s Thoughts” seminary advisor, suggested that she always be an adjunct professor at Luther Seminary in St. aware of the use of language in Christian Paul from 1997-99. were the musings, updates, or edito- education classes, because faith language offers rial comments by one of the pastors us a way of thinking. For instance, when we or staff. look at gospel stories like the parable of the unjust steward, we can ask “What does this [T]he role of the pastor is often ❈ Questions and comments written mean to me and my life?” to encourage those exploring a “This is exciting,” says Pastor Stacy, “because life of faith to expand the angles by “people in the pews” were placed then we are not looking only at flat, conven- in the collection plate, and responded tional scriptural interpretations; we are looking from which they can see... to by the pastors or staff. These for possibilities.” She adds, “This way of responses were extensively read and viewing the gospel allows us to ask how the discussed among Holy Trinity mem- gospel could be alive here.” Word and Sacrament ministry is vital to Dr. Phil Hefner taught Pastor Stacy how to Pastor Stacy’s understanding of herself and has bers. This continuing dialogue served think as a theologian. He encouraged her to to foster better understanding in the widened her angle of vision. “Regular preach- think creatively using classical images and ing encourages thinking through one’s divided church. invited her to read and talk about all she was thoughts, which makes for a better teacher,” she learning. “[Phil] stressed the idea of God as 100th Anniversary Page 17 says. “In many ways, it completes the loop. I am Philosophy degree in 1996. a better scholar of the Bible because I need to Stacy’s ordination in October 1998 was the preach and teach; I think more creatively about joyful culmination of a long period of prepara- ethical issues because of my involvement in the tion for the ministry. Her call as pastor at Holy liturgical life of the community.” Trinity is part time. In addition to Word and In a historic moment for Holy Trinity, Pastor Sacrament ministry, her primary focus is in the Stacy became the first woman called and area of Christian Education. She writes original ordained as a pastor of Holy Trinity Lutheran curriculum for the Sunday Church School and Church on October 11, 1998. Her connection to the Vacation Church School. Stacy is married to the congregation has been of many years’ Christopher Myers, a United Church of Christ standing, and has always concerned itself with pastor in River Falls, Wisconsin, where they live serving, teaching, and preaching the Gospel. with their children Andrew, Matthew, and Growing up at Holy Trinity, Pastor Stacy felt Kathryn. that her call to the ministry clearly emerged A primary confirmation of Stacy’s pastoral from her work within the congregation. Holy calling came during her undergraduate years at Trinity, she says, has given her many opportuni- Macalester College in Saint Paul. While still a ties to stretch her angle of vision; the congrega- student, she oversaw the summer program at tion has continuously called her into new ways Holy Trinity and began fine-tuning the teaching of service. materials. At first, she says, this was mechanical Her life within the Holy Trinity congregation work, simply ensuring there were enough began when her family arrived from Chicago in materials for participants. Over time, as Pastor 1974. Stacy graduated from South High School Stacy evaluated the program, she realized and later earned the Bachelor of Arts degree materials were incomplete and expanded the from Macalester College in 1988, with majors in existing curriculum in order to strengthen it. Political Science and Sociology. From 1990-91, The work progressed, with positive responses Pastor Stacy served Osseo Evangelical Lutheran from students and teachers. Church in Osseo, Wisconsin, as a pastoral intern This process of use and evaluation has led to while in seminary. She then earned a Master of Holy Trinity’s adoption of the “village model” Groundbreaking at the Trinity-on-Lake site included Divinity degree from the Lutheran School of of learning for the summer program. Each children as well as adults. Theology at Chicago in 1992 and continued summer, Vacation Church School children learn will continue to be involved in housing and post-graduate study at Northwestern Univer- about the many and diverse sectors of city life, educational issues, addressing the moral an sity/Garrett Evangelical Seminary in the area of as well as how various aspects of it are both ethical issues of the day at all levels. When it Christian Religious Education. She completed a universal and particular, depending upon a comes to ethical decision-making, she does not dissertation entitled Christian Vocation and the child’s circumstance. advocate adults keeping watch over this Community of Faith and received the Doctor of Pastor Stacy believes that presenting the life responsibility. of the city in this way breaks down barriers to children’s understanding of how God works in their lives and helps We want the children involved children to understand how to interact creatively for the com- in all aspects of the church’s mon good. “This is true of life. That’s why the kids wore children’s literature as well,” she hard hats and dug dirt with says. “Everyone can pay atten- tion to and gain insight from shovels at the groundbreaking children’s stories.” There are new for the Trinity-on-Lake ways of thinking to be found from a children’s book; a new Apartments. angle of vision, perhaps one closer to the ground. From a pastoral perspective, “We want the children involved in all aspects Stacy is clear that Holy Trinity of the church’s life. That’s why the kids wore Stacy Johnson teaching Vacation Church School, ca 1993. hard hats and dug dirt with shovels at the groundbreaking for the Trinity-on-Lake Apart- ments.” She goes on, “We want them to know that people can be involved in changing other Roll Call of Pastors people’s lives…and that includes them.” That’s a positive angle of vision for the future: An educator’s point of view, for sure, but also In its earliest years, Holy Trinity was served by the angle of vision of someone called to the various field missionaries from the church-at-large ministry of Word and Sacrament. and seminary students. —Bob Hulteen and Stephanie Sulzbach

Luther B. Deck (1908-1913) John Albert (1913-1917) Carl Bartsch (1917-1950) Raymond E. Johnson (Known to have been on the staff, June 1946) Paul Graf (1950-1969) William Christy (1953) Wayne Wickoren (1953-1957, 1958-1969) George Jacobsen (1956-1958) John Schultz (1959-1960) ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ Wilbur Harmony (1961-1968) Clemens Zeidler (1969-1970) Additional stories can be Elmer Flack (1969) found on the David Gerberding (1970-1973) Holy Trinity website Roger Eigenfeld (1970-1972) Roger Johnson (1970-1972) www.htlcmpls.org Thomas Robison (1972-1976) ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ John Ellison (1973-1974) Ronald K. Johnson (1974-present) Paul Tidemann (1979-1981) Joy Bussert (1987-1988) Stacy K. Johnson (1998-present)

Page 18 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church ‘Go Into All the World’ Study Trips Offer a New Perspective

Global travel has long been a focus of members in West Africa, Niger, Mauritania, of Holy Trinity. Through travel learning experi- Senegal, and Togo. As part of this ences, the Holy Trinity congregation has ad- delegation, they studied economic hered to one of the challenges issued by the development projects funded Social Issues Committee: “Encourage experien- through Lutheran World Relief. tial learning through such vehicles as study In December 1991, Ron Johnson, journeys and service activities.” Andy Johnson, and Joel Wiberg traveled to the Northwestern Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania (ELCT) in “[T]he purpose of travel is to Bukoba. Ron and Joel each spent come home to oneself. The time with the Northwestern Diocese journeys undertaken by Holy after graduating form the seminary. Pastor Joel Wiberg in Tanzania. This trip allowed the renewal of Wiberg worked with the Northwestern Diocese Trinity to Tanzania and other contacts and friendships with people of the to create a study/learning journey. The group Northwestern Diocese. places have clearly enriched the was welcomed by Josiah Kibira and Abela The delegation had significant conversations Kibera, who were again visiting relatives. They travelers and in turn the with Bishop Samson Mushemba, a longtime traveled with the rest of the Holy Trinity group friend, who had worshipped regularly at Holy congregation. Through this to the Karagwe Diocese of ELCT, a more remote Trinity while doing doctoral work at Luther travel we all have a greater part of Tanzania bordering the country of Seminary. They explored ways in which Holy Rwanda. There the group was welcomed by the sense of the wonder and Trinity and the Northwestern Diocese could newly elected Bishop Benson Bagonza, who the increase and enhance their long-standing diversity of God’s creation and following month, during a trip to Wisconsin, relationship. preached at Holy Trinity. a deepened sense of and In December 1995, fifteen members traveled A visit to the Northwestern Diocese Ntoma to Tanzania on a trip initiated by the Social commitment to our purpose Orphanage was a moving experience. Infants Issues Committee and organized by Ron and and mission in God’s world.” whose mothers have died in childbirth are cared Joel. The trip’s itinerary was developed with the for until they are strong enough to be cared for —Rev. Joel Wiberg Lutheran Northwestern Diocese in Bukoba. The by other family members. The current AIDS/ itinerary included visiting cities, small commu- HIV epidemic has meant additional needs and nities, a hospital, health centers, schools, and care for these young and vulnerable infants who orphanage, a sugar cane factory, a shamba might not otherwise survive. The Northwestern (small farm), a technology training center, an STUDY TRIP TO SOUTH AMERICA—In Diocese developed a program called HUYAWA, agriculture school, music school and a home September 1978, seven Holy Trinity members a Swahili acronym for Service for the Children, craft school. traveled to Guyana. After a tour of which offers assistance to children who have A member of the traveling group, Josiah Georgetown’s markets, parliament buildings, lost one or both parents to this disease. Dale Kibira, was spending a month in the Bukoba courts, and cathedrals, the group had conversa- Bosch, who had taught in Arusha more than 30 area visiting his mother Martha Kibira, the tion with families of the Guyana Youth Singers. years earlier, met with some former students widow of the late Bishop Josiah Kibira who was (The singers had performed at Holy Trinity the and received a cordial welcome. the first Tanzanian Bishop of the Northwestern previous year.) Member Carol Kelly com- The Lutheran Church in Tanzania is truly an Diocese of Bukoba and one-time president of mented, “The purpose of the trip was to gain an African indigenous church. The African leaders the Lutheran World Federation. The group was understanding of the nature of a Third World, initiate and sustain a great variety of ministries, invited to Martha Kibira’s home for a gathering ‘underdeveloped’ nation, and to learn about the which they deem as vital for their church and of farmers, homemakers, teachers, and pastors, Christian community as it lives in conditions nation. The Lutheran Church in Tanzania has one of the many meetings in a home setting. and culture significantly different than our welcomed missionaries from Germany, Sweden, The group also visited the home of Pastor Fidon own.” Denmark, and the United States over the years Mwombeki, who, during his doctoral study at and still does; but it is the local leaders and Luther Seminary, worshipped at Holy Trinity. STUDY TRIPS TO AFRICA—In May 1982, three workers that keep the church faithful to its The delegation worshipped with his congrega- members traveled to Somalia, Kenya, and the mission in this part of the world. Central African Republic. In Somalia, the group tion, followed by a festive meal. met with the director of the Interchurch Re- The delegation was also the guests of Pastor sponse Camp, a refugee resettlement organiza- and Mrs. Balira at their shamba located in the tion comprised of Catholic Relief Services, northern area of Tanzania on the border with The Lutheran Church in Church World Service, and Lutheran World Uganda. A canopy of banana leaves with rugs Tanzania is truly an African Relief. These organizations helped to alleviate on the ground was created for our group. Pastor immediate crises and to teach refugees long- Balira proposed for Holy Trinity a project in indigenous church. While term solutions through appropriate technology support of a secondary school in Tanzania. welcoming missionaries from Following this trip, a special appeal was initi- in medical care, agriculture, and drinking water. Germany, Sweden, Denmark, At that time there were 33 camps in this area; ated at Holy Trinity to help build a secondary the one visited by the Holy Trinity delegation school in Bunazi, as proposed by Pastor Balira. and the United States over the had a population of 20,000 people. In 1997 and 1998, Josiah and LuAnn Kibira years, it is the local leaders and A member of Holy Trinity who was a Peace and their two daughters, Abela and Namara, Corps worker lived in the bush village of took a full year to volunteer in the Northwest- workers that keep the church Bossengoa, Central African Republic. The visit ern Diocese. Although they financed this faithful to its mission in this endeavor themselves, they were recognized as there included hospitals, a nutrition center, part of the world. well-baby clinics, and conversations with volunteer missionaries by the ELCA Division of people. World Missions. LuAnn served various clinics In January 1986, Ron Johnson and Stacy as a nurse clinician and consultant (as well as Johnson were part of a delegation from homeschooling her daughters). Josiah initiated a Holy Trinity has had a regular and vital Lutheran World Relief that traveled to countries program offering loans to persons wanting to relationship with Christians of the Northwest- begin a business venture, as ern Diocese over the years, primarily due to the well as assisting the diocese relationship Revs. Johnson and Wiberg have with administrative issues and had with the diocese, the study trips, and the office support with computing. large contingent of Tanzanians who are mem- In 1998 Pastor Joel Wiberg took bers of our congregation. a leave from his work to travel With this continuing relationship, Holy to Tanzania for one month to Trinity has incorporated African liturgy into its teach at a regional Lutheran worship service and the African members hold Seminary in Ruhijia, a major a monthly afternoon Swahili service at the teaching center of the North- church. Deo Gratias Mahamba, a musician and western Diocese. Pastor Wiberg choir director at the Lutheran Cathedral in presented a monetary gift from Bukoba, spent three months at Holy Trinity Holy Trinity to the newly leading musical workshops and working with developed Theological School. the choir. The African drums continue to pulse In January 2003, a group of 12 through Holy Trinity services as a reminder of Holy Trinity members and this visit. friends traveled again to Tanzania. Joel and Nancy Ron Peterson in Tanzania. 100th Anniversary Page 19 Rev. Joel Wiberg says, “A wise person has said and the working conditions often not good. The that the purpose of travel is to come home to delegation met with representatives of these oneself. The journeys undertaken by Holy Holy Trinity has had a regular corporations, as well as received hospitality Trinity to Tanzania and other places have and vital relationship with from Mexican families living in the various clearly enriched the travelers and in turn the Christians of the Northwestern barrios. congregation. Through this travel we all have a greater sense of the wonder and diversity of Diocese over the years, STUDY TRIP TO CUBA—Twenty-three people God’s creation and a deepened sense of and primarily due to the traveled to Cuba on a Center for Global Educa- commitment to our purpose and mission in tion trip. Because of the U.S. embargo of Cuba, God’s world.” relationship Revs. Johnson and the group first traveled to Cancun, Mexico, and Wiberg have had with the from there flew to Havana. STUDY TRIPS TO CENTRAL AMERICA—Holy diocese, the study trips, and the The ten-day visit was filled with visits to Trinity members Judi and Lauri Issacson health clinics, schools, a cooperative farm introduced the congregation to countries in large contingent of Tanzanians community, and a meeting with a representative Central America by visiting Mexico and who are members of from the Cuban government. Cultural events, Managua, Nicaragua, as members of the Minnesota Synod Hunger Task Force sponsored our congregation. through Augsburg College’s Center for Global Education. In 1984 Judi, on a Peace and Justice Enablers delegation, spent three weeks in El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. In re- “We committed ourselves to sponse to her experience, Holy Trinity initiated tell the story of Nicaragua,” says monetary support for Agricultural Missions of Chris Engen. “Nicaragua has the National Council of Churches. inherited a great many problems Eventually Judi and Lauri developed a to overcome, but it has people personal interest in El Salvador and founded a with great abilities who can nonprofit organization, The Interchange Insti- overcome problems if they are tute, to fund development projects in that allowed to.” country. The institute has raised significant Six additional Holy Trinity funds for development projects; recently the members traveled to Nicaragua institute brought Salvadorans to Minnesota for in February 1999, primarily to learning experiences for people in both coun- check on two projects (a pre- tries. school in Leon and a clinic in In January 1993, a group of ten people visited Santa Rosa) after the devastation Nicaragua through Project Minnesota Leon, a of Hurricane Mitch. After a grassroots organization that builds sister disturbing visit to a garbage dump where Center for Global Education study trip to Cuba, 2003. young and old scavenged to eke out an exist- ence, the group was informed including an Intercontinental Cup baseball about “Jubilee 2000,” an game, were other highlights. international movement to have Especially impressive was the Literacy rich creditor nations forgive Museum because of the event it commemorates. some of the external debt of the In 1961, two years after the revolution, Fidel poor countries. Castro set a goal of teaching everyone to read One of the major changes and write. Ten thousand persons, mostly youth, visible in Managua was the responded to Castro’s call, leaving schools and existence of Burger King and work for a year and going into the countryside. McDonalds. A tall Pepsi Cola They were recognized by the lanterns they can illumined the sky. Expen- carried in order to teach at night after the sive cars now drove alongside farmers came in from the working their fields. wooden ox carts on the streets. Letters written by the farmers and their families Unemployment was more than thanking Castro are bound in books in the 60 percent. museum. The campaign raised the literacy rate from 40 to 96 percent in one year. Cuba is the Holy Trinity delegation to Santa Rosa, Nicaragua. As the group prepared to leave, fond good-byes were ex- most literate country in the whole world. It is relationships between groups in Minnesota and changed. People cried “Do not forget about us” easy to understand why Fidel Castro is a hero to Leon, Nicaragua. The group stayed with to the visiting Minnesotans. the people of Cuba. families in a barrio, visiting churches, schools, In November 2001, six members of Holy “With committed planning, it is possible for a and medical clinics during the days. A contro- Trinity spent a week in Arizona and Mexico relatively poor society to provide a basic level of versial civil war and natural disasters had coordinated by Borderlinks, an agency with social services for most its population—basic resulted in high unemployment and medical facilities and staff in Tucson, Arizona and health care, education, and housing.” says Deb problems. Delegation member Catherine Olson Nogales, Mexico. The staff provides orientation, Sodt. “Capitalism does not have all the answers said upon her return: “No words can ad- programs, visits, and experiences to help for how to create a well-functioned society. equately describe my feelings while in Nicara- participants understand the history of the People are motivated and creative when facing gua or on return. The opportunity to see first United States/Mexican border area. challenges.” hand how others live, work, and cope through- The necessity for fair trade policies became out the world is invaluable.” obvious. Nogales has grown in 30 years from a Study trips broaden our views of our world, our In April 1994, three members of Holy Trinity small town to a city of more than 600,000. For nation, our selves, and our faith. This experi- visited Nicaragua again in a Project Minnesota most residents there is no infrastructure of ence helps us in our struggle to bring a biblical Leon-sponsored trip. This group deepened support. Residents who had recently lost farm faith to the life of the world. some relationships and saw some changes in land to international corporations flock to cities the area as there was an increase in amenities like Nogales to find jobs with other multina- —Margaret Peterson from the previous year. The story of Nicaragua’s tional corporations, even though the pay is low war for independence that over- threw the Somoza regime and the subsequent fight against the contras was sobering for the American travelers. In Santa Rosa projects to produce income and Members of the con- improve quality of life initiated by the women of the community were awe-inspiring. gregation are cur- rently preparing for a trip to Peru in 2005.

Tanzanian children. Page 20 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Lutheran Church Women Doers, Servers, and Workers of the Church

They were the doers, servers, and workers, and dinners were held these women of Holy Trinity, but first, they often: the Men’s Club were the keepers of the faith. And, after all was dinners were monthly, said and done, the women of the church were evangelism and Luther good friends—good for each other and good to League dinners were each other. This was the way it was for most of frequent, and the the first 70 years after Holy Trinity was estab- Bowling Banquet, lished: one, two, or three women’s groups in the Mother-Daughter early years, expanding to as many as 14 groups Banquet, and lun- during the 1960s. cheons following the During its peak, the Holy Trinity Lutheran end of Sunday School Church Women (LCW) and its many affiliated and Vacation Church groups were a huge part of the congregation. School were all occa- The groups were called circles, chapters, guilds, sions for the women’s and clubs, and their names were Alpha, Career groups to respond to Women, Carl Bartsch, Carrie, Christian Fellow- the need and call for ship, Community, Dorcas, Douglas Erickson, service. Esther, Faith Lippard, Mary Markley, Miriam, In addition, women of the church prepared Ruth, and Seamers. Devoted members of a women’s circle, ca. 1990s. The LCW’s overall emphasis rested strongly luncheons or refresh- on mission work, education, service, and ments following acquainted. Members tried, but in the end, the membership. In 1962-63, the groups ranged funerals of Holy Trinity members. Church top-down legislation just didn’t succeed. Within individually in number from 12 to 77; total women served as caregivers in the nursery a year’s time, the groups and members had membership of all groups that year was 398. during services, and participated in the support sorted themselves back to their original starting Highly structured at all levels, the LCW activities of the Lutheran Women’s Welfare points, and the idea was quickly abandoned. groups organized at the individual, congrega- League, the Luther Seminary Auxiliary, and the Once-thriving women’s circles, groups, and the tion-wide, synodical, and national church Martin Luther Manor Auxiliary. LCW began to dwindle slowly through the levels. Each group elected officers and ap- On a more informal basis, the LCW groups of 1960s and 1970s, until they no longer had a pointed a great many committees. Holy Trinity were the recruitment reservoir for significant a presence at Holy Trinity. A directory for the Holy Trinity LCW was Sunday School and Vacation Church School Recently, in conversation with long-time printed and distributed annually. It included teachers. With 500 or more participants in each members Carol Kelly and Maddy Mann, both names, addresses, and telephone numbers of all of these programs, a huge reservoir was cer- emphasized, again and again, the remarkable members, officers, committees, dates and times tainly required. willingness of the LCW groups to be active and of meetings, and more. At 40 pages, the 1962-63 Social change, though, brought a lower birth to help whenever and wherever they were LCW directory was nearly the same size as the rate and smaller families; greater gender equity needed. And while these groups are no longer current Holy Trinity membership directory. and more freedom from ingrained social roles; formally in existence at Holy Trinity, women Each group scheduled monthly meetings. and a need and/or desire for greater family continue to form and sustain strong bonds About half held meetings in the afternoon and income. Change began to occur within the through the many opportunities for faithful early evening, and all but one of the groups met church at large and at Holy Trinity in particular. service—indeed, the story of Holy Trinity at the church. The various women’s groups In the midst of change, the national church throughout its hundred year history. assumed responsibility for many service-related body initiated a system of rotating members —Bill Milbrath activities within the congregation. Luncheons among the various women’s groups at each congregation to help members become better ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈

Connected by More Than a Thread The Sewing Club Roster of the Sewing Club— Meeting for Half a Century

The women met and became friends at Holy Young Married group at Holy Trinity. Choir Marilyn (Nelson) Anderson, rehearsal was a second weekly opportunity to Trinity more than 50 years ago. And the connec- Minnetonka tions they made run so deep, and they have spend time together as friends. Eventually, the Nancy (Soderlin) Anderson, Maple enjoyed each so much, they have continued long-standing Sewing Club was established. together as the “Sewing Club” almost every And the “sew-ers” have identified a number of Grove month since! essential ingredients to their success. Vivian (Bodine) Bratt, New Brighton So what was the common interest that Although many couples, after they were Marge (Carlson) Carlson, Minnetonka brought these women together at Holy Trinity married, moved from the neighborhoods Marlys (Karpe) Dreher, Coon Rapids and held them together for so long? “Well,” Lois around Holy Trinity to suburbs like Richfield Lois (Drher) Drury, Richfield Drury offers, “it was just the thing to do back and Fridley, they continued to gather to enjoy Bette (Hanson) Grinde, Richfield then. It was fun and also a great way to meet the relationships. The Sewing Club meets Margaret (McGinness) Morgan, and get to know the boys!” The women ex- monthly in members’ homes in the evening. Minnetonka Surprisingly, the women believed that sewing plained that there were many Luther Leagues Virginia (Zube) Olson, Richfield then, including a post-High School League. was not the common bond. Instead it justified Marolyn (Soderlin) Olstad, Champlin As more and more of the post-high leaguers the time together. Sometimes these women got married in the 1950s, they became the called their group the “No Sewing Club!” These Gloria Sauke, Wells women enjoyed Virginia (Kelly) Smith, Edina their time together Charlotte (Chelstrom) Sordahl, during the many Bloomington stages of life. At Veta Vining, Verndale first the conversa- Gloria (Nelson) Warner, Saint Paul tions revolved Donna (Johnson) Wold, Richfield around babies, kids, and parenting. Eventu- The group has adjusted meeting days and ally it shifted to times to fit changing situations. While most of issues of the the group has stayed within the metro area, “empty nest” or they are spread all over the Twin Cities. They grandparenting. now meet for lunch and leave for home by 2 Now the group p.m. so that they are home before rush hour concentrates on traffic begins or before darkness falls in the health problems winter. related to aging. These women have shared so much over And they are a these many years. Their friendship has embod- source of comfort ied the care and commitment of an active and support when community of faith. a spouse dies. —Bill Milbrath The Sewing Club, not only creating beautiful projects but also life-long friendships. 100th Anniversary Page 21 Lift Every Voice Music in the Life of Holy Trinity

Let ev’ry instrument be tuned for praise; Let all rejoice who have a voice to raise; And may God give us faith to sing always: Alleluia!

These words from a well-loved hymn succinctly reflect the position of music in the life of the Holy Trinity congregation. It could be said that “we can’t live without it!” Minutes from the first annual meeting of the congregation, held January 8, 1906, begin “After singing a hymn and the reading of a psalm [sic] and prayer led by the Pres. the meeting was opened by the Pres.” and close with “... meeting adjourned by singing a hymn No. 84 The Lord my Sheperd [sic] is, I shall be well supplied: and by all uniting in the Lord’s Prayer.” Congregational singing is, and has been, part of all public worship at Holy Trinity, with a broad spectrum of hymns sung and new Hymn Festival, Feb. 26, 1984, under Stephen Gabrielsen’s direction. hymnals embraced as they appeared over the years. (Though, yes, “Holy, Holy, Holy” was the processional hymn every Holy Trinity Organists Holy Trinity Choir Directors Sunday during the Bartsch years, with Pastor Bartsch singing most Hannah Nelson (volunteer) (1904-1906) Mrs. E. P. Shaw (1920s) robustly of all as he followed the Clara Hansen (1906-unknown) Carrie (Mrs. Carl) Bartsch (1920s-1936?) choir down the aisle.) Mrs. E. P. Shaw (1920s) Mildred Holstad (1936-1940s) Hymn festivals have a strong Carrie (Mrs. Carl) Bartsch (1923-1936) Joseph Holstad (occasionally) (1936-1959) tradition as well. In celebration of Joseph Holstad (1936-1959) Mayo Savold (1952-1957) the congregation’s 75th anniver- James Ausland (assistant) (1957-1959) Thomas Warme (assistant) (1955-1957) sary in 1979, former choir direc- Katharine Holum (1960) Ralph Williams (1957-1959) tor and organist Philip Brunelle Robert Schultz (1960-1962) James Ausland (assistant) (1957-1959) returned to lead a hymn festival. Marlene Baver (1962-1963) Marcella Oja (1959-1960) Annual ecumenical hymn Gerald Orvold (assistant) (1963-1966) Robert Schultz (1960-1962) festivals were also held during Robert Brace (1963-1964) Marlene Baver (1962-1963) Stephen Gabrielsen’s tenure as Philip Brunelle (1964-1969) Gerald Orvold (assistant) (1963-1966) music director in the 1980s, with Charles Svang (assistant) (1967) Robert Brace (1963-1964) as many as 13 area choirs partici- Robert Kendall (1969-1970) Robert Mantzke (1964-1967) pating (1984). Most recently, Holy Andrea Nabben (1970-1971) Kent Lundholm (interim) (1967) Trinity hosted a Lutheran- Betty Nelson (assistant) (1970) Philip Brunelle (1967-1969) Episcopal service of lessons and Layten Heckman (1971-1974) Robert Kendall (1969-1970) hymns in Epiphany 2004. Music Mrs. Richard Bingea (interim) (1975) Edith Norberg (interim) (1970-1971) has always been a central element Dodd Lamberton (1975-1976) Layten Heckman (1971-1974) of the Church School curriculum, Stephen Gabrielsen (1976-1986) Mrs. Richard Bingea (interim) (1975) and children’s choirs have long Kathryn Schenk (interim) (1982) Dodd Lamberton (1975-1976) been on the congregation’s Julie Lindorff (1987-2000) Stephen Gabrielsen (1976-1986) agenda. The sound of children’s Elwood (Woody) Bernas (2000-2003) Allan Mahnke (interim) (1982) singing nourishes the congrega- Christopher Nelson (2003-2004) Thomas Rossin (1987-1992) tion greatly. Julie Lindorff (2004-present) Julie Lindorff (1992-1996) It would be hard to judge Ann Schrooten (1996-present)) whether the music of the choirs is Lowell (Rick) Prescott (2003-present) more important to listeners or singers. The rich experiences that choral singing has brought to the the late 1960s) of a Choral Candlelight ❈ The tradition of singing major choral works congregation are suggested by a few memorable Service on the evening of the last Sunday in on Good Friday, particularly the requiems examples: Advent, with all choirs singing, and dra- presented during the tenure of Tom Rossin matic productions, such as the story of as music director in the late 1980s and early ❈ All the treats of Christmas music, including Martin the Cobbler (1981 and 1983) and 1990s. a more than 20-year tradition (concluding in Amahl and the Night Visitors (1998). ❈ The healthy new musical perspectives gained during the residencies of composer Chris Granias of the Eastern Orthodox tradition (1995) and Deogratias Mahamba, choral director of the Lutheran Cathedral, Bukoba, Tanzania (1999). ❈ The thrilling music of Easter, presented joyfully by choirs and instrumentalists.

AN ATTEMPT TO have a congregational orchestra, started in 1963, was not enduring. However, instrumental music has been highly valued over the years, and the congregation has twice installed pipe organs (1935 and 1974), brought grand pianos into the sanctuary (1983 and 1993), purchased a three-octave set of handbells (1961), and in recent years, under the direction of Ann Schrooten and Julie Lindorff, gathered a fine array of African drums and percussion instruments. Guest musicians enhance worship on a regular basis. Through the dedicated contributions of both a long line of professional musicians and mem- bers of the congregation, we have been able to experience the full musical tradition of the Christian church. Since 1998 we have even had our own Composer-in-Residence, Robert Wetzler. Christmas Candle Light Service, 1954. We are richly blessed. —Carol Johnson

Page 22 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church organized theatre at Holy Trinity, but there is tion of organized theatre at Holy Trinity Acting Out not much evidence any of these endeavors bore Lutheran Church. The experience of Lost in the When Faith and Drama Meet fruit. One of the hints speaks of trying to form a Stars, with its attempt to be a fully-mounted drama group at “Thee Corner,” the Holy Trinity theatrical production that explored important youth center of the time. The other announces issues, and the positive response received “I know, let’s put on a show!” Those words might auditions for “some new plays” directed by following its performance, proved that an remind you of Mickey Rooney and Judy Gar- Mike Mann, who was a recent high-school ongoing theatre program could be successful. land, but at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, graduate at the time, and remembers working After developing a mission statement that they’ve been spoken for the better part of a with junior-high-aged kids on a couple of one- speaks of producing thought-provoking drama century. The Holy Trinity Theatre Circle (HTTC) act plays. highlighting important issues, with opportuni- is the latest in a long line of dramatic endeavors Activity slowed again during the 1970s until ties for participation by people of all ages, and for our congregation, and while HTTC might be Steve Gabrielsen arrived as organist and choir with a dedicated group of hardworking people the most organized of the bunch, it’s by no director. During his tenure, “Gabe” put together at its core, the Theatre Circle sprang to life in means the only vehicle for theatrical expression nine productions using members of the Holy May 1994 with a staging of Thornton Wilder’s that’s been seen at Holy Trinity. In fact, records Trinity choir, including Christmas stories (Once classic drama, Our Town. Three performances show that, on average, a theatrical event of Upon A Christmas, 1981 and 1983) and biblical were virtual sell-outs, and the first question some sort has been produced at Holy Trinity stories (He Led the Good Life, 1978; Love, You from nearly everyone in the audience after every 2.2 years for the past 76 years. Spoke a Word, 1983; and The Story Tellin’ Man, watching the performance was “What are you 1985). His most doing next year?” ambitious efforts, though, were probably Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat After developing a mission in 1984 and Godspell in statement that speaks of 1986. producing thought-provoking Any history of theatre at Holy Trinity drama highlighting important would be incomplete issues, with opportunities for without the inclusion of the efforts of the participation by people of all Sunday School and the ages, and with a dedicated Vacation Church group of hardworking people at School and of the various productions its core, the Theatre Circle they’ve put on over sprang to life in May 1994 with the years. The work of the summer church a staging of Thornton Wilder’s 1934 Community Club school program classic drama, Our Town. deserves special The dramatic efforts of our young congrega- mention. A dedicated staff of adults, led by tion remain shrouded in mystery somewhat Pastor Stacy Johnson and Stephanie Sulzbach, until the year 1928, when, according to the shepherd a usually-large and energetic group of In 1995, the Theatre Circle mounted a produc- church bulletin of November 4, the “young children through a musical dramatic produc- tion of the A. R. Gurney play, The Dining Room. people will present in play and pageant, The tion, start to finish, in just four days—truly, a This play explored family dynamics across a Dream That Came True.” The listing goes on to remarkable achievement. century of time through interpersonal interac- say, “Many beautiful pictures of the Old Testa- In addition to the normal summer production tions around a dining room table. 1996 brought Inherit the Wind, ment times will be shown. These pictures are in 2004, older young people and adults staged a a production of a fictional re- produced by living models. Besides being performance of Godspell. This time, set in a telling of the famous “Scopes Monkey Trial” of entertaining, all of us will be made better by coffee shop (The Java Café) and without the the 1920s. In 1997, the Theatre Circle recreated seeing it.” clown motif, most of the lead characters/singers the Puritan world of early America and the The Cru- The 1930s, 1940s, and the early 1950s might were middle and high school students. Rick and Salem witch trials in Arthur Miller’s cible. have been a quiet period, theatre-wise, for Holy Jody Liedholm directed and provided stage Later, a return to lighter fare brought a Trinity. Written records of productions don’t management. Current choir director Rick charming production of I Remember Mama in seem to exist, but there is at least one photo- Prescott directed the live orchestra. 1999. Each of these productions was presented graph in our archives of what appears to be a in the Bartsch Room. minstrel show produced on the stage in the In 2000, the Theatre Circle tried a new ap- gym, complete with actors in blackface. This proach to presenting an issues-laden text— was well before we realized how offensive such With the tragedy of apartheid at Henrik Ibsen’s The Enemy of the People. Per- productions were to persons of color; shows its center, Lost in the Stars formed in the gym as a semi-staged reading, the such as these are long gone. actors had nothing to rely on but themselves Theatre activity really picked up starting in became the impetus for a new and the scripts in their hands to tell the story of the late 1950s, when groups such as the Senior age of issues-based theatre at sustainable economy versus public welfare. The League, the Sunday School, the Luther League, Holy Trinity, and brought group appreciated the extra space allowed in and the various choirs all took turns producing the gym, and returned there in 2003 with a events of a dramatic nature. Music was a big about the birth of the Holy production of Harper Lee’s classic novel of part of the programs during this period, and Trinity Theatre Circle. racism in 1930s Alabama, To Kill a Mockingbird. most of the productions were musicals of some Most recently, the Theatre Circle presented an sort. Many of these were original works, with adaptation of Lois Lowry’s award-winning four Christmas pageants between 1958 and 1964 children’s novel, Number the Stars, a story of written and directed by Pastor Wayne In 1993, organist and choir director Julie friendship and bravery in the face of incalcu- Wickoren. These had titles such as Salvation’s Lindorff led the adult choir (with additional lable odds, when a young Danish girl helps Story (1961), Go Tell It on the Mountain (1962), singers) in a production of the and The Five Responses (1964). Kurt Weill musical Lost in the While it makes sense that much of the drama Stars. Based on the book Cry, produced at Holy Trinity was religious in the Beloved Country by Alan nature, there have also been a number of Paton, the musical tells the productions that were just for fun. For example, wrenching story of two in May 1958, Bea Sandquist directed the Senior families in South Africa, one Leaguers in a three-act comedy entitled A black and one white, and how Feudin’ Over Yonder. Then, in June 1961, a grand their lives are irretrievably production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Mikado changed when the son of the was given, complete with costumes, sets, black family murders the son lighting, and what seemed like a cast of thou- of the white family. With the sands. Stories about this production still rever- tragedy of apartheid at its berate throughout the church building, and at center, Lost in the Stars became least one Holy Trinity member credits The the impetus for a new age of Mikado with firing his love of, and involvement issues-based theatre at Holy in, theatre arts. Both of these early productions Trinity, and brought about the were used as Luther League fund-raisers to birth of the Holy Trinity finance various activities, such as trips to Theatre Circle. national Luther League conventions. The Community Church archives from 1968 THE HOLY TRINITY Theatre provide two tantalizing hints of attempts at Circle is the current incarna- Cast from the first production of Godspell, 1986. 100th Anniversary Page 23 save her Jewish best friend and Visitors, 1999, and various texts presented her family from the Nazis in dramatically for Lenten services). World War II. This production broke new ground with the scheduling of two morning matinee performances specifi- With theatre such a potent cally for local school groups. mechanism for highlighting With nearly the entire play important ideas and issues, we double-cast and six perfor- mances presented, Number the can expect to see drama used to Stars became the largest, and its full extent for years to come. longest running, of any Holy Trinity Theatre Circle produc- tion. Theatre continues as a vibrant The Theatre Circle has ten years of produc- element in the life of Holy tions to look back on, and many more going Trinity Lutheran Church. forward. With theatre such a potent mechanism Cast of Number the Stars, Spring 2004. Smaller efforts have been offered for highlighting important ideas and issues, we in the context of worship ser- can expect to see drama used to its full extent vices (Amahl and the Night for years to come. —Peter Johnson ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ By the Numbers Membership and Other Measurements

In 1905, the first year of the permanent organi- zation of the English Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Holy Trinity, there were 37 baptized members, 27 confirmed members, and 12 communing members. By 1941, Pastor Bartsch had announced at the annual meeting that “Holy Trinity last year led all congregations of the Lutheran Church in the United States in new members received.” Minutes from that meeting indicated that 300 adults were received into the congregation, and 77 children were confirmed in the year just passed. By 1959, total membership would swell to 4,801 baptized members, 3,003 confirmed members, and 2,633 communing members. Today, according to the annual meeting notes from January 25, 2004, those numbers now stand at 1,471 baptized members and 1,231 confirmed members. The total budget for the church’s first full year totaled $309. Miss Nora Jensen paid the trea- surer $1 as the first contribution to the new congregation. Two dozen chairs were secured at a price of $4 per dozen, and the first organ was purchased for $28. The record shows that the Financial campaign volunteers in the santuary, ca. 1955. World War II-era budget of 1944 stood at $43,263. By 1959, total receipts had increased to $244,025, with total benevolence giving at Investing in the Future $93,356. Today in 2004, the budget stands at Endowments and Investment Funds $543,900. In 1906, the congregation approved adminis- During the 1960s Holy Trinity members gave tering the Lord’s Supper on the first Sunday of dent of the Minnehaha National Bank for many several hundred thousand dollars to a building each month and new members were accepted years, and John Moe and Bea Sandquist, long fund, the purpose of which was two-fold: to on that Sunday as well. By 1922, individual time members. build a new church that would front on Lake communion cups were approved for use during The Fund’s investments have been managed Street and to build a senior high rise on 31st Holy Communion. The sacrament was offered by a committee of Holy Trinity members over Street and 28th Avenue. To this end, all of the twice a month by 1940, and the pastor urged the years. The Fund has now grown to an property across 28 th Avenue (currently the members to commune at least once each month. amount in excess of $600,000. At least as impor- Trinity Apartments and Trinity-on-Lake build- With membership nearing 2,000 members in tant, about $750,000 have been made available ings) was bought, as well as the land and 1943, communion was offered three times per to the church and its ministry from the earnings buildings on Lake Street where the East Lake month. Finally, weekly communion became over the years. The Fund has proved to be a Public Library now stands. available in 1971 and continues at present to be stable source of income each year that helps in As the congregation and ministry staff offered every Sunday at both services. fulfilling the annual budget. evolved in the early 1970s, the priorities of this Sunday School students totaled 20 in 1905, Many members look at the Fund as a way expansion shifted. Trinity Apartments was built with five Sunday School officers and teachers in they can give money that will help Holy Trinity and substantial renovation of the present church attendance. The first year that confirmation maintain its ministry in South Minneapolis structure occurred. A large part of the money classes were completed was 1907. Three young years after they are no longer alive. In its first 30 that had been raised for a new sanctuary women (Miss Agnes Himbladt, Miss Henrietta years, the Fund has proven to do just that—to supported these building projects. Peterson, and Miss Hilda Thompson) were be an “investment” in the future. In addition, it was decided the property north examined and duly accepted as members of the of the sanctuary to Lake Street was not needed church. —John Kelly for Holy Trinity’s ministry. That land was sold In 1908, the first issue of the Holy Trinity to the Minneapolis Public Library; East Lake Lutheran, a four-page church bulletin printed by Library now stands on that site. the Men’s League, appeared on the scene. The money received from this sale of land Today, at each of the Sunday morning services, became the money that was used to establish an ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ members receive a bulletin containing the Investment Fund. The Fund started in 1974 with complete liturgy for the service. (Holy Trinity about $140,000. Additional stories can be alternates between five separate liturgies The original purpose of the Investment Fund currently in use.) Members also receive by mail found on the was to invest these monies and use the income a weekly two-page newsletter, The Community derived for the general good of Holy Trinity. Holy Trinity website Church, which provides an excerpt from the The principal of the Fund was to be used only if www.htlcmpls.org previous week’s sermon or a topical theological an extreme emergency arose, but up to this time ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ reflection, a guide to the Biblical reading for the that has not occurred. Various additional gifts week, and a preview of forthcoming congrega- have been received over the years, the largest tional classes and activities. coming from the estates of Arvid Lund, Presi- —Ralph McQuarter Page 24 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Call to Lead The Challenge of Church Governance

With the formal incorporation of the church, six When the Nomination male members were elected to serve on the Committee selected an all- Church Council in 1905. Three served as dea- male slate in 1931, three cons (executive officers), with the remaining women were nominated serving as trustees. Five women were chosen to from the floor at the serve as delegates to the Conference of the annual meeting, but were Women’s Home and Foreign Missionary not subsequently elected. Society. Holy Trinity now has 19 Church Coun- In 1932, a committee of 20 cil members, both male and female, both elected members was selected and appointed. Five of the members serve on from the congregation by the Executive Committee of the Council: the the Pastor to meet President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, monthly, in the form of a and Pastor. spiritual organization, to Representation was an early issue in the life of assist the pastor in the the Church Council. In 1925, a motion was affairs of the church. passed at the 20 th Annual Meeting of the congre- Annual meeting minutes gation that allowed two women to be elected to suggest sometimes-rocky the Church Council to act as an “advisory relationships among Pastor Graf with Church Council, Spring 1967. board.” One month later, at a regular Sunday members. In 1935, two worship service, the congregation voted to drop amendments to the constitution were approved REPRESENTATION ACROSS AGES became an issue in the word “male” from the constitution so that as follows: thereafter any member of the congregation over 1. No one shall be eligible to hold any office the early 1970s. The members at the 1973 annual 21 years of age could be elected to serve on the in our congregation on the official board meeting voted and approved changes to the Church Council. of the church or the several organizations constitution and by-laws so that 12 Council At the next annual congregational meeting in of the congregation who does not regu- members were elected for three-year terms, 1926, the membership approved a change to the larly attend church services and partake with two members over 60 years of age and two by-laws reducing the Church Council from 20 of the Lord’s Supper. members under 21 being elected to one-year members to 12. Mrs. W.E. Tuttle was one of four 2. Members of the official board shall not be terms. Current by-laws state that the Church members elected to serve one-year terms but eligible to succeed themselves after a term Council shall not consist of more than three withdrew her name; following new nomina- of three consecutive years. designated staff and sixteen Council members. tions (including three other women), Mrs. A general discussion was held at the 1937 Any communing member who is at least 16 Lindquist was elected to the Council. In 1927, annual meeting on the matter of cooperation in years old may be elected to the Council. two women were elected to one-year terms on the church with the Pastor, the organ commit- the Church Council: Mrs. Robertson and again, tee, and the official board. The Pastor appointed —Ralph McQuarter Mrs. Tuttle. The first woman to serve a three- a sergeant-of-arms for the annual meeting. year term on the Council was Ellen Erickson, elected in 1934.

❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ Keeping the Door Open Metro Work Center Expands the Ministry

Since its beginning almost 45 years ago, the Trinity became involved including Lola Complex life skills, such as learning directions Metro Work Center has been a “grassroots” Peterson, Vivian Anderson, June Schriener, and and tasks for employment, are now empha- kind of program. The program has always Alan Wold. When Alan Wold, a Minneapolis sized. focused on the needs of persons with develop- Fire Department Assistant Chief, found numer- mental disabilities. In about 1960, the program ous code violations, the Holy Trinity members arose out of the needs of four young adults requested space for weekday use at Holy whose parents did not want their children Trinity. Space was found in a room behind the Over the years, Metro Work institutionalized. balcony, also used by the Boy Scouts. Center programming has These families were all part of Our Saviors The program was originally called The Open grown and evolved from craft- Lutheran Church, at 24th Street and Chicago Door, and was renamed The Friendship Center Avenue. The pastor and the families all felt that when the expanded space opened at Holy centered projects to a life-skills their sons and daughters would benefit from a Trinity. With incorporation in 1967, it was focus. planned program using parish space. named the Day Activity Center of Minneapolis. The effort began with volunteers from the In 1987, with a change in emphasis, the name church and retired teachers who lived nearby. became The Metro Work Center. Programming was provided two or three days Until incorporation the primary funding The Center staff has continued to grow and each week from mid-morning to mid-afternoon. sources included craft sales, program participa- evolve, with more education and degree Program content focused on crafts and food, tion fees, and donations. Availability of Minne- requirements, more specialization, and more and included two snacks and lunch each day. sota and federal grants increased fundraising flexible work-time options. Currently the staff The program grew in numbers—both partici- options. In-kind donations from Our Saviors numbers about twenty people. pants and volunteers—and soon expanded into and Holy Trinity supported the mission as well. The number of participants during the 1970s space at the former parsonage next door. The programming also grew and evolved grew to approximately 100 people, so two At the same time, several people of Holy from craft-centered projects to a life-skills focus. locations were necessary. With declining enrollment recently, the Richfield site was discontinued. The Holy Trinity site has almost 60 participants. The term for someone involved in the program has evolved from “participant” to “client” to “consumer.” The connection to Holy Trinity has been and continues to be important as it has evolved over the years. The first staff people were Holy Trinity members, and members have also served on the center’s board for many years. The third floor rooms have been utilized daily for a long time, and their maintenance and improvement have been a joint effort. And the supportive and rich relationships between the Holy Trinity and Metro Work Center staffs have been very valuable for years.

—Bill Milbrath

Holy Trinity serves many Metro Work Center consumers. 100th Anniversary Page 25 ‘Go Into All the World’ A Drive toward Mission The roots of missionary concern can be traced to There were a number of the earliest days of the congregation. Shortly other missionaries who after the formation of the St. Peder’s congrega- had a connection with tion in 1884, Adam Dan was called to serve as Holy Trinity through the the first pastor. Before his arrival in the U.S., years. In 1949 members Rev. Dan had been sent to Palestine by the were encouraged to send church in Denmark as a lay missionary. Un- Christmas cards to doubtedly this experience would influence the Douglas Erickson who activities of the church that birthed Holy Trinity. was working under The story of missionary involvement in the difficult conditions in life of the Holy Trinity congregation seems to Tsingtao, China. On his have followed the general pattern of develop- return in 1951, he visited ment across the board in mainline churches Holy Trinity on various during her first part of the 20th Century. Charac- occasions as the congrega- teristically, it was the women of the church who tion continued to contrib- Holy Trinity has long standing ties to African Christians. assumed major roles in the support of missions. ute to his support when, during his 30 years of ministry at Holy Trinity. In 1925, for example, the Ladies’ Aid and unable to return to China, he was reassigned to Following visits by members of the congrega- Missionary Society had 150 members who were Malaysia. tion in 1991 and 1996, several projects for the committed “to be of help in upbuilding of the Rev. Fred Lueders and his wife were commis- work in Africa were undertaken. These in- community.” Among their activities was a sioned at Holy Trinity in 1958 for agricultural cluded raising funds to provide resource books mission carnival where people were encouraged work in India and continued to receive support for parish pastors; a shipping container full of to come in various costumes. for some time. Also that year, Rev. Paul Lewis library books, as well as school, medical, and Pastor Bartsch was strong on tithing and and Rev. John Anderson, missionaries to office supplies; blankets for a new seminary in mission support. In his 1935 annual report, he Liberia, were designated Missionary of the Ruhja in northwest Tanzania; and a substantial stressed stewardship “until every member is Month with half a unit under a cooperative contribution toward the building of a secondary converted to the missionary command of Jesus program of support by various congregations in school in the village of Bunazi in the same area. Christ. Each member should be willing to give the North West Synod. In 1966 Rev. Ronald A commitment was also made to raise an something for missions regularly. The marked Zaudtke became one of the missionaries spon- endowment of $25,000 to supplement the sored by Holy Trinity and, in this connection, meager resources for pastors’ retirement spoke at a meeting of Lutheran Church Women. benefits. Some years before he had been commissioned at An unusual aspect of the Africa connection Holy Trinity for work in Argentina. involved music. In 1983 the congregation had a The Epiphany Appeal of the ULCA for 1958 sewing bee to make 40 robes for the congrega- was to raise $85,000 for the Japan Lutheran tion in Bukoba. The following year $1,000 was Church to develop church camp facilities that allocated to underwrite the cost for publishing had shown great promise. To promote this 3,000 hymnals for the church in Northwest project, a Luther League Mission night was Tanzania. Then in 1998, Deogratias Mahamba, planned around the theme “Japan Speaks,” with the choir director of the Lutheran Cathedral in Japanese games, skits, information, and food. Bukoba, arrived in Minnesota to spend three In January 1961, a major Mission Festival was months at Holy Trinity working with the choir, held at Holy Trinity, jointly sponsored by the conducting music workshops, and interpreting Mission Festival, January 1961, Mrs. Warm, Mrs. Olson, ULCA Board of Foreign Mission, the Central the life of the African church. His work here is and Mrs. Remmner in Japanese Room. Conference of the North West Synod, the United still reflected on occasion in the worship liturgy. Lutheran Women of the Central Conference, Since the early 1980s, many people of this improvement this year is greater than any year and the Minnesota Luther League. Several congregation have visited and became involved in our history and it is due to the fact that the Secretaries of the Board, as well as a number of with various projects in Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Storehouse Tithers have given on a 50-50 basis missionaries from various fields, were on hand El Salvador, Cuba, and Mexico. Currently a visit for church and missionary support. May the to present the cause of missions. is planned for Peru. Because of political disrup- prayer of every Christian be that this year there tion in these areas, issues of social justice have shall be a spiritual missionary revival within FOR A VARIETY of reasons, Holy Trinity has had a often been of central concern. our congregation.” strong relationship with the church in Africa. The commitment to mission often involved Pastor Paul Graf was for some time a member the sponsorship of individual missionaries at of the Board of Foreign Missions of the ULCA The needs of the world still call various levels or terms of support. In the mid and made two trips to Africa in this role. 1930s, the Martha-Mary Circle took a special Following his report of the needs there, the for our witness to God’s love interest in the work of Marion Trion-Miller in congregation raised money in 1963 for a school and our service to humankind. Liberia. Apparently their enthusiasm and and other projects. It is said that Pastor Graf had generosity were a bit overwhelming, for “The an “African room” in his house with artifacts Synod stepped in and said she was getting too acquired from these visits that were available much stuff and stopped that support. The The mission of this church has developed and for displays at mission festivals. changed during the years to deal with a chang- Synod would decide how mission money Pastor Ron Johnson served a seminary ing world, and the story of missions at Holy would be divided up.” It should be noted, internship (1961-62) in Bukoba, Tanzania, as a however, that this was not an instance of Trinity has reflected these changes in various secretary to Bengt Sundkler, bishop of the North ways. But the needs of the world still call for bureaucratic high-handedness, but reflected Western Diocese of the Evangelical Lutheran policies developed to ensure that resources our witness to God’s love and our service to Church in Tanzania. It is natural that this humankind. would be used to meet needs and priorities of connection should find a continuing expression —David Lindell the overseas churches in a fair and balanced way. ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ The Fulfillment of God’s Mandate Finding Jesus Amidst the Poor, the Sick, the Imprisoned, and the Homeless

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church has demon- families went on to establish wonderful ethnic strated a long commitment to the vulnerable of restaurants for the Twin Cities.) society. This commitment has been lived out Holy Trinity Lutheran Church Several Holy Trinity members tutored these through direct service to those in need and has demonstrated a long recent arrivals in English. Members Mark and through advocacy with and for the vulnerable. commitment to direct service to Sherry Landa, who were professionals in A description of some of these efforts follow: literacy for English as a Second Language, those in need and to advocacy trained these volunteers in the finer points of REFUGEE SERVICES—Beginning with the end with and for the vulnerable. tutoring. Many of the refugees continued of the Vietnam War, Holy Trinity began a long- relationships with some of the forty or fifty term response to the growing need for congre- members involved with “welcoming the gational sponsorship of refugee families stranger.” through Lutheran Social Services (LSS). By 1982 monetary and in-kind donations enabled the Central American war refugees were aided by the congregation had sponsored eight families sponsorship of five more Asian families, an contributions to the “sanctuary” for Guatema- (approximately 60 individuals), all from South- Afghani family, and the reunification of an lan refugees at a nearby church, the legal fund east Asia. The generosity of the members in Ethiopian family by 1990. (Three of these of a lay church worker arrested in Texas, and

Page 26 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church the local chapter of the “Overground Railroad,” MINNEHAHA PANTRY—The based at St. Martin’s Table. 1978 annual meeting goal of In 1993 Holy Trinity participated in an establishing a food drive Episcopal Church program sponsoring home- became a drive that continues less families, which involved the welcoming of through today for a commu- a family of eight from Tennessee. Sadly, the nity pantry located at a nearby father was very ill, and soon died. Through his church. An interesting ante- funeral, a couple baptisms of the children, and cedent to this donation project assistance with several moves around the city, is found in the 1913 church several individuals have stayed in ministry with annual meeting notes: “Needy the family. remembered to amount of groceries and provisions AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL—A chapter of amounting to $30.00!” this well-known international advocacy organi- zation began at Holy Trinity by Marion Edman, LOAVES AND FISHES—Holy Ardes Johnson, and others in 1982. Members Trinity in 1987 joined a net- have met and responded to requests for letters work of metro-wide churches to be sent to authorities regarding prisoners of that rotate responsibility (three Some of the members of the Holy Trinity sheetrock team, 1993. These teams conscience around the world. Through such times each year) serving low- have worked on more than 20 Habitat for Humanity projects. letter writing, political prisoners were reminded income and homeless people that their stories were not forgotten, a powerful an evening meal. This effort has been another CHILD CARE CENTER—During the 1960s, reassurance in the face of torture and isolation. rich opportunity for growth in living the gospel Holy Trinity members concerned about the By 1988 three different church-affiliated groups of Christ as a group of about twenty individuals need for a childcare center in the community wrote letters; today a number of individuals helps with preparation, serving, or clean up of a hired staff to begin serving this need, utilizing continue the tradition of speaking out for the meal. Kathy Hollander served as chief buyer ground floor rooms in the church addition. In unjustly imprisoned. and cook until 1993, when Stephanie Cole took 1975 Pastor Ron and Barbara Johnson facilitated over that role. Relying heavily on the Food the development of a Day Care and Preschool EMERGENCY SHELTERS—In response to Bank, the cost for serving the nearly 300 people Program by hiring licensed teaching staff, and rapidly growing number of homeless persons, currently (originally 550 people) is kept rather setting goals of supporting healthy early the Minneapolis City Council in 1982 passed an modest. childhood development and parenting, based ordinance allowing churches to offer shelter on a foundation of the Christian perception of until April 1983. Several volunteers from Holy CLARE HOUSE—Clare House is a residence for life. That year the budget was $46,000. Three Trinity were trained and served night shifts at persons living with AIDS. Three years ago the years later, an after-school childcare component Holy Rosary Catholic Church during that house began asking for volunteers who could was added, raising the enrollment to 58 chil- period. Joining with other congregations, Holy come on a regular basis to cook for, and eat dren. Trinity members advocated with the county and dinner with, a resident. Several members began the state to provide shelter and related service serving a vulnerable community through of basic needs and job development. The sharing meals and fellowship. coalition of churches also took a role in estab- A Day Care and Preschool lishing the “Housing Information and Resource MEALS ON WHEELS—The “Aged Committee” Program at Holy Trinity Program,” which finally settled at Lutheran joined other south Minneapolis churches in 1973 supported healthy early Social Services by 1988. to meet the need for shut-in elderly persons to have hot meals delivered each week day. childhood development and HABITAT FOR HUMANITY—Beginning in Currently six Holy Trinity volunteers deliver parenting based on a 1987, Holy Trinity explored participation with meals for a week at a time, four or five times the local chapter of this national organization, each year, from a central kitchen in Nokomis. foundation of the Christian which uses volunteer labor in its program of perception of life. enabling low-cost home ownership, and con- CHORE PROJECT—Increasingly the aging tributed financing toward a south Minneapolis residents of Longfellow struggle to maintain home. Pastor Johnson was quoted in an inter- adequately their homes, and this often leads to As programming developed, adding service view: “Habitat helps renew the neighborhood… them needing to move prematurely. From 1990 to special education students, and providing It’s an artificial division to separate spiritual to 2000 a nonprofit organization was housed at specific support to single parents, enrollment renewal from community renewal.” Five years Holy Trinity to address these needs. Congrega- rose closer to the capacity of 95. By the year later, with financial support from a bequest, tional and community members provided cheap 2000, enrollment had declined to 65, mainly due Kathy Hollander directed the training of a labor for yard and house jobs at homes of the to radical reductions in government support for sheetrock team of about 20 persons and the elderly in the community. childcare. Over the next three years, the purchase of necessary tools. This team has community’s need for the day care/preschool worked on more than twenty houses, mainly on SENIOR CITIZEN ACTIVITY CENTER— Saint Paul’s east side and in south Minneapolis. Proposed by the “Aged Committee” at the 1975 was carefully weighed against budget deficits. With further decreases in enrollment, a difficult The work was challenging, but attending the annual meeting, the Senior Citizen Activity decision to close the childcare program was house dedications and meeting the families Center functioned weekly by serving a noon made in the summer of 2003. selected to live in them always was fulfilling. meal, and offering table games and a program The after-school program continues with 30 This ministry culminated in the building of an on a variety of subjects. The service of blood “anniversary house” near 34th Street and pressure screenings was added, and attendance children enrolled, and with the original head teacher, Sharon (Fuzzy) West, still in her place Snelling Avenue South, along with St. Peder’s averaged 50 persons. About two years ago and serving her second generation of children. Lutheran Church, during 2002 and 2003. It was attendance decreased, and organized activity She says she has “never met a kid she didn’t built on a federally de-contaminated site, became limited mainly to occasional van trips to like.” costing $50,000 in materials and representing nearby places of interest. 4,000 volunteer hours. COMMUNITY TUTORING PROGRAM—In METRO WORK CENTER— 1996 the community organization Longfellow The Metro Work Center— United for Youth and Families (LUYF) collabo- occupying most of the church’s rated with Holy Trinity to meet the need for third floor on weekdays— originally moved to Holy evening support with homework for identified elementary students in the community. Volun- Trinity in 1965, having been a teers provide tutoring assistance and relation- community and LSS-related ship one evening per week during much of the program located at Our school year. While LUYF supports students Savior’s Lutheran for mentally handicapped children and from a number of neighborhood schools, most of the students tutored at Holy Trinity have adolescents (not yet served by come from Anne Sullivan Communication public education). The pro- Center at 31st Avenue and 28th Street. gram, with most of its partici- —Joy Nelson pants, moved to the larger space available at Holy Trinity, and offered wood-working, ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈ arts and crafts, and transporta- tion. (See Keeping the Door Additional stories can be Open—Metro Work Center found on the Expands the Ministry, page 25.) Holy Trinity website www.htlcmpls.org Gateway to the Holy Trinity campus, erected in 2004. ❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈❈

100th Anniversary Page 27 A Place to Belong Increasing Housing Options in Longfellow

Imagine a time-lapse photographic image going Longfellow’s comparatively low scale back 40 or more years. A bustling avenue skyline. Additional land—residential numbered 28th ran east of the church on 31st lots—had to be purchased. U.S. Depart- Street. The streetcar, and later the automobile, ment of Housing and Urban Develop- dominated Lake Street, with gas stations and ment (HUD) provided the bulk of the car dealerships and related businesses along the financing, including building construc- thoroughfare. It had been like this for decades. tion and rent subsidies. The dedication Changes that would shape the church’s sur- of the 120-unit building at the end of roundings and mission were underway. During 1978 included recognition that the the 1960s land along 28th Avenue had been building would need services to be purchased, but then the congregation aban- effective. Trinity’s share of development doned its idea to build a new sanctuary on fees went to pay for enhancements to Habitat home on Snelling Avenue, this project was completed with th Lake. A new pastor from Chicago was about to the structure, including an atrium and St. Peder’s in celebration of the 100 Anniversary. arrive. additional lounge areas on each floor. The task force believed in the value of a From its beginning Trinity Apartments has building that would integrate persons from a been overwhelmingly successful. Waiting lists variety of income levels and life experiences. have been the norm. Early food services— The task force selected a developer (Brighton managed by Holy Trinity—were replaced by a Development Corporation) and an architect congregate dining program. Holy Trinity (Peter Kramer), identified a service partner volunteers prepare a monthly Saturday evening (Mental Health Resources), and proposed a plan meal for residents. Educational programs occur for a 24-unit building on Lake Street. The plan regularly. specified one-third of the units be rented at market rate; one-third be treated as affordable THE NEXT TWENTY years were marked by in- housing; and one-third be reserved for persons creased involvement of the congregation in a with special needs. The congregation voted variety of housing concerns. In the early 1980s, unanimously to donate the land for the housing as a result of changes in federal policy, project. The work of the task force ended; most homelessness emerged as a community crisis. In members joined the board of Trinity Housing response many churches established shelters. Corporation and work began in earnest to For several years, Holy Trinity provided volun- secure money and other approvals to make the teers to help a neighboring congregation offer dream a reality. shelter. But homelessness continued to increase. Another five years would pass before funding Holy Trinity turned its energies to policy was secured and the building constructed. In change. The congregation joined the Metropoli- November 2003, Trinity-on-Lake was dedicated tan Interfaith Coalition for Affordable Housing and residents began to move in just 25 years (MICAH) to work in coalition with other after the dedication of Trinity Apartments. communities of faith to expand housing re- As with the previous housing development, the sources for low-income persons. Holy Trinity real task is one of making these apartments into also began a partnership with Habitat for a community. As Holy Trinity’s second century Humanity, a national organization that came dawns, the existence of 144 units of housing on Holy Trinity Apartments, completed in 1978. into being in the 1980s. The social issues com- the church property influences our sense of mittee led the organizing of volunteers for mission. By many accounts, the idea to develop restoration or construction of homes in the Twin The records of Holy Trinity are replete with housing and renew the neighborhood goes back Cities. the facts of housing development. We know at least 50 years. Evidence of formal action on In all, congregation teams have worked on that the paths to housing never run smoothly or the concept shows up in church documents at more than 25 homes. The most recent Habitat quickly. Patience was a theme in the reports the end of December, 1973, when a special project was constructed in honor of Holy Property Negotiating Committee took on the Trinity’s 100th Anniversary for the task of selling land Holy Trinity owned north to Longfellow Neighborhood. This partner- Lake Street. Proposals to buy the property north ship included Habitat for Humanity, of the church came from the Minneapolis Public th which obtained the land from the City, Library for land on the west side of 28 Avenue; and Saint Peders, Holy Trinity’s congre- and from two developers for a senior high rise gation of origin. apartment building on the east side. The During the 1980s and 1990s, other Property Negotiating Committee’s report plans to develop additional housing on concluded, “Building a new East Lake Library the church’s property emerged. Archi- and an elderly high rise will be a definite tectural plans were drawn up for an revitalization to our area and put that land assisted-living facility adjacent to the involved to a use that is most beneficial to the senior high rise, but this plan did not community.” progress. Trinity-on-Lake Apartments, completed in 2003. By January 1975, the Library’s land purchase was complete. The City had approved rezoning made by Trinity Housing Corporation Board Y 1997 A NUMBER of pressures prompted a new for apartment construction and granted permis- B chairs 25 years apart. sion to vacate 28 th Avenue between Lake and look at the congregation’s remaining property. Despite these challenges, the ripple effects of 31st Street in order to construct a pedestrian First, the two 100-year-old duplexes on the mall these projects are worth noting. We have new mall. Money from the sale of the land to the demanded nearly constant maintenance. neighbors and new opportunities for service Library enabled repairs to the church’s exterior Second, a shortage of affordable housing and relationships. Lake Street and the area and boosted Holy Trinity’s endowment by gripped Minneapolis. around 27th Avenue are improved. Mental about $141,000. With advice and a grant from At its annual meeting in January, the congre- Health Resources has offices in the church to Greater Metropolitan Minneapolis Housing gation established a task force to explore conduct housing and outreach services to Corporation (GMMHC), the church established possible housing development options. Once persons in the neighborhood, not limited to a separate nonprofit corporation to protect the again, the GMMHC provided seed money for Trinity-on-Lake. congregation from any liability associated with the task force to conduct market studies, to All Holy Trinity’s activities in housing–from housing development projects. Trinity Housing interview potential developers, and to develop the apartments to the Habitat for Humanity Corporation came into being in February 1975. a plan for the congregation to consider at its homes–have led the congregation to look 1998 meeting. outward, to serve as an example for other From the initial studies, two things became MORE THAN THREE years would pass before the congregations, and to add legitimacy to our clear: Affordable housing was in short supply, first residents would move into Trinity Apart- advocacy for policy change. and persons with mental illness disproportion- —Jane Kretzmann ments. Initially there were community concerns ately experienced homelessness and housing about the building’s height in relation to discrimination.

Page 28 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church