250th Anniversary- Bethany Trinity- Fishersville, VA

 

May 29, 2022 was a special day of celebration 

for Bethany Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church,

 Fishersville, Virginia 

in the Shenandoah Valley.

Here, Rev. Tim Bohlmann leads a Memorial Day

 reading and tribute in the cemetery 

of this congregation that dates back to 1772.

This monument to Michael and Margaret Keinadt was 

dedicated in 1892 and attended by 2000 "Keinadts",

  with the largest horse and buggy 

gathering in Augusta County- ever.

The Anniversary booklet tells

 the faith story of this congregation.

They also have a wealth of information 

on their church website-

bethanylcw.org/250-years.html

 A tribute to the Veterans of this congregation

 is part of the history of Memorial Day for Bethany Trinity.

"New" Bethany on the Hill 

(originally called Trinity)

was built in 1889

 to replace the earlier structure from 1881.

Memorial Day services are held at this location.

The beautiful sanctuary was remodeled 1901-1902 

to include these beautiful windows.

Honoring the men and women 

who have served in the military.

This small church is lovingly preserved.

History is a big part of the story 

of this very old congregation. 

But, it is gathered to give thanks 

and praise to a faithful God.

Now, that is a family tree!

Pastor Tim and son- Sam.

Sam is an integral part of the congregational life 

at Bethany and serves well.

Pastor Tim and wife -Sue,

are a gift of servant leadership

 to this congregation of Bethany.

Flags of each war decorate the graves of the Veterans.

 Here are a Revolutionary War 

and War of 1812 grave markers.

Every celebration needs a great potluck.  The pavilion

 on this church site provides a wonderful place

 to gather friends and family.

Also honored at this service was the recognizing

 of 66 years in the ministry 

for Rev. David Luecke.

Southeastern District President Emeritus- 

Rev. Dr. John R. Denninger 

read a tribute honoring God for this servant leader.

l to r- Pastor Tim, Pastor David, and President John-

the blessing of Kingdom workers.

Thankfulness for also given for the service

 of wife- Mardi Luecke.

God has been "with them" as they moved, changed,

 and reorganized for the mission.

May the Lord continue to bless the work

 of His people in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.

A short video of the celebration day.

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