THE HISTORY OF FAITH LUTHERAN CHURCH
CORNING, NEW YORK
FIRST THE BUILDING
In January of 1853, Deacon Napoleon Barrows arrived in Corning to serve the congregation of the Christ Episcopal Church. He was a real “go-getter,” as shown in what he led the congregation to accomplish in his first year of work there. The congregation collected $5,000 for a new church building. They sold the “chapel” where they had worshipped that was on the corner of Market and Chestnut Streets to add money to the building fund. They engaged a New York City architect to design the new church building. They also bought a site for their new building on the southwest corner of Erie Avenue (now Denison Parkway) and Walnut Street where the Southside Post Office is located now. They broke ground that June, and substantial work was done on the building by winter.
The new church building was made from sand stone from the hills south of Corning, possibly from the old quarries off Powderhouse Road, the same rock used to build the Citadel that was once located on Irish Hill off of West First Street.
The Friday, 03 June 1853 edition of the Corning Journal reports:
The foundations are being prepared for the erection of a large and commodious stone Church edifice for the use of the Episcopal Society in this village. The cost will be six thousand dollars, very nearly all of which has been subscribed. The location is upon the corner of Walnut st. and Erie Avenue, north of J. Hazelton’s residence. The Committee deserve credit for the energy displayed in securing a sufficient fund to construct a building, and for the adoption of such a plan as to size and general appearance, as will render it an orment [sic] to the village.
The church building was grayish in color, and the design was early Gothic – reminiscent of a country church in England. The building measured 73’ x 37-1/2’ and seated about 400 people. The church never had a steeple. The building had a steep roof covered with wooden shingles.
The inside of the church was illuminated with candles and then gas lights. The walls were buff colored. The little pump organ, which was acquired in 1866, stood on a loft in the back where the Quartet Choir sang. The windows had “churchy” designs in their enameled glass which let in a “pleasing and religious light.” The history of Christ Church notes that “the local newspaper called it ‘a new church beautiful and costly but not too showy or grand to stand as an inspiration to those who labor under its banner and find solace in its protection.’”
Of particular interest for Faith Lutheran today is this passage from the archives of Christ Church [#4-B pg. 2-3] describing the original building:
“The central compartment of the Chancel Triplet, that is, triple windows, contain a figure of our Blessed Lord… represented in His regal capacity, sitting, holding in His left hand the globe (as an emblem of His Sovereignty of the World) surmounted by a cross as an emblem of the final conversion of the earth to the Faith. His right hand is raised in the act of blessing…
"Over the figure of our Savior is the monogram of the Trinity, being a triangle within a circle. In the angle are the words Est Deus (is God).
“Around the sides of the triangle is inscribed in old English text, ‘Blessed be the Holy and undivided Trinity now and evermore.’ Under the figure of our Lord is the Lamb on the Altar. In the side compartments (i.e. side windows of the Triplet) are the Mitre and Crozier; the Font; the Chalice; the Keys; the Pelican in her piety; the Phoenix rising from the flames. The groundwork of the windows is enameled (that is, painted) glass with a blue border."
A bell was purchased in 1871 at which time the congregation contracted with the Warsaw Manufacturing Company to build the belfry tower. Before that, the steep roof was without a protuberance except for a little “gablet” intended to hold a small bell.
The original windows were replaced in March of 1889 with six decorative windows enhancing the beauty of the church. The church never looked lovelier.
However, disaster was to strike very soon! At 2:00 A.M on March 30 of 1889, the America Hotel just down the street from the church was ablaze. A burning brand drifted eastward with the wind for nearly a block and fell on the wooden shingles of the church, and soon it was ablaze also. Before the firemen got the fire under control, the roof was gone, as were the six new windows and the excellent pipe organ. The fire gutted the interior. The mighty efforts by firemen and a few parishioners had saved everything that was moveable. They lugged the altar down to Williams Hall on the first block of East Market St. Services were held there the very next day which was a Sunday.
The Thursday, 04 April 1889 edition of the Corning Journal reports:
While the fire was in progress Saturday morning at the Episcopal Church, a young man who is one of the oldest and most enthusiastic of the Volunteer Firemen and one who in his Sunday School days was always to be seen at the Church, (at the building of which his grandfather was the most liberal donor,) saw the fire breaking through the ceiling and he shouted for water to stop its progress. A voice behind him said: “Don’t throw water there; it will ruin the books and upholstery.” The young man vehemently replied: “Better have the ----property wet than burned up.” He then turned and saw he was addressing the remarks to the Rector.
The congregation worshipped there at Williams Hall for about ten months. The walls of the derelict church still stood firm. The vestry decided to fix things up for “temporary” occupancy. “Temporary” lasted five years.
On January 27, 1895, The Episcopal congregation held their last service at the old Walnut Street church. They sold this building in 1895 to the German Evangelical Church of Elmira, which used it as a daughter congregation for members in the Corning area. It became known as the German Church. This Corning German Evangelical congregation was formed on October 17, 1894 with Rev. William Stern as pastor. A Corning newspaper of the day reported that “On Sunday, September 15, 1895, the German Evangelical Church was consecrated by Pastor William Stern in conforming to ritualistic requirements. The Society prospers.”The Corning Daily Democrat of Tuesday, 17 September 1895 reports:
The German church dedication passed off very pleasantly. The morning service was held by Pastor Stern and Pastor Meisenhelder from Rome, N.Y. In the evening service. Rev. Crannell read a chapter of scripture, Rev. Dr. Hutton made a prayer, Rev. Roberts gave an address, Pastor Koehler from Elmira preached a sermon, Rev. Fuller also gave an address and benediction. Prof. Mueller organist of Elmira German church, was present and his playing was very much appreciated. The Corning Sangerbund [sic] sang in the morning and evening service. We give to all many thanks for their kind attendance and help for the benefit of our church.
Wm. Stern, Pastor.
A notice in a January 1899, Corning newspaper stated that “Reverend Theodore Braun, for three years pastor of the German Evangelical Church, accepts a call from Hammond, Illinois.”
The German congregation, experiencing the same dirt and disturbance from the Erie Railroad that ran alongside the church, worshipped in this building at this site for less than ten years when the United States Government purchased the land on which the building was located for a post office. In 1905, the congregation decided to relocate the building to a new site on the same block but around the corner on First Street. The building was to be located in the middle of the block. Monkey Run stream ran down the hill beside it and flowed into the Chemung River. The church was on the corner formed by the stream and First Street. A bridge went over the stream connecting both sides of First Street. (The stream is not visible in this area now because it goes through a concrete culvert. Two houses on First Street have since been built on underground concrete arches over the culvert.)
The German Evangelical Church voted in August of 1901 to raise $2,000 to add to the $8,000 already in hand to relocate the church. Work on relocating the church building was begun in 1907, with the Rev. R. Vieweg, as the pastor. The cornerstone was placed on June 28, 1908 a Sunday afternoon. The Friday, 26 June 1908 edition of The Evening Leader carried the article:
CORNERSTONE OF GERMAN CHURCH TO BE LAID SUNDAY
Appropriate Program—Service at 3 O’clock in the Afternoon
Everything is now ready for the laying of the cornerstone of the new German Evangelical church which is in course of erection on West First street.
Sunday afternoon the services of the laying of the corner stone will be held at 3 o’clock, according to the ritual of the German Evangelical Church. The service will be conducted by Rev. Rudolf Vieweg, pastor of the German Evangelical Church in Elmira, who is also pastor of the German congregation in this city. He will be assisted by Rev. John Chester Ball, pastor of the First Presbyterian church, and Rev. Nathan E. Fuller, pastor of the First Congregational Church.
The Rev. Theodore Braun, of Auburn, former pastor of the local German Church, in reply to an invitation to be present at this special service stated that he very much regrets that owing to other engagements he can not be with his Corning friends on this joyful occasion.
Two singing societies, the German and the Swedish, conducted by Hening Overstrom, will render appropriate vocal selections, while the North Side Military Band will be heard in several musical numbers.
The pastor and the people of the German Evangelical Church extend a cordial invitation to the public in general and to the German Protestants in particular to attend the corner stone laying.
During the service a special offering will be received for the Building Fund and it is hoped that the contributions will flow liberally and generously and that all members, friends and former members of the German Church in Corning will thus lend a hand to enable the congregation to get on its feet once more. The program follows:
Prelude—Selection…North Side Military Band
Salutation and Scripture reading… Rev. R. Vieweg
Anthem—Scandia Singing Society
Scripture Lesson and Prayer…Rev. N.E. Fuller
Address…Rev. John C. Ball
Anthem…Scandia Singing Society
Remarks (in German) Rev. R. Vieweg
Laying the corner stone by the pastors, assisted by the members of the Church Council
Anthem—Die Kapelle (German)…German Saengerbund
Prayer and Benediction…Rev. R. Vieweg
Postlude—Selection…North Side Military Band
The Monday, 29 June 1908 edition of The Evening Leader carried the article about the event:
LAID CORNERSTONE OF GERMAN CHURCH
Impressive Services in Swedish, English and German Attended by Thousands Sunday Afternoon
A large crowd witnessed the ceremonies occasioned by the cornerstone laying of the German Evangelical church in this city yesterday afternoon.
Promptly at 3 P.M. the opening exercises as outlined in The Leader of Friday were gone through with the Rev. John Chester Ball D.D. of First Presbyterian Church, delivered the opening address. In brief he said:
“We have, indeed, cause for congratulation today. This occasion is not only an epoch in the history of your organization, but in the history of the scope and power of religious activities in this city. Religion is both a testing and an abiding principle in the history of the human race.
“We are reminded at the present moment of the constructive principle in life. Whatever we may find in the church; one salient principle is the indestructibility of the real Christian Church. This principle appeals to that celestial something that we term Christianity.
“As we lay this corner stone let us consider the constructive value of life and of religion. In a few short months we will by the providence of God dedicate this Church to Him and to the extension of his kingdom. While the cornerstone will not be in evidence on this occasion, we will nevertheless be conscious of its power and of the influence of self dedication.
The constructive effort is a part of life that creates within us a desire to erect a tribute humble though it may be to the power of God and for the uplift of humanity.
“As this building rests upon its cornerstone, so does the power of the church rest upon the self- abnegation, power and strength of its members. Think how easy it is to destroy. But a short time since these stones that lie upon all sides of us were a part of the building that sheltered you. Now they are assuming an entirely different shape. Yet, destruction to the old church played an important part in the erection of the new house of worship for you.
“We must exercise all possible care that this and every other church in the community stands for the insubvertible doctrines left for us by the One Real Teacher and Leader.
“In behalf of the churches of our city I trust that this church may be a monument to the faith, the love, the devotion and the unremitting zeal and sacrifice of the Germans of Corning.”
Following Rev. Ball Rev. N. Parson, pastor of the Scandinavian Lutheran Church of Elmira who frequently preaches to members of his faith in the city, spoke for a few moments.
He said that God always preferred conscientious work in His vineyard.
“The church,” observed Rev. Parson “is to point souls the way to Heaven. It behooves us all to pause and consider we have but one God and one Saviour. Everyone here has some conception of the value of the human soul. May we all work for the unity of faith and of power. We must as real children of God learn that unity is the source of strength. I congratulate both pastor and people on the success of their work. May the Lord continue to abundantly bless you all.”
Horace R. Hood of this city who is now soloist in one of Philadelphia’s leading churches, beautifully rendered “Peace and Rest.” He was accompanied by Miss Edith Hamner.
Rev. R. Viewig of Elmira, who is also pastor of the local German church, at this juncture spoke briefly in German. He thanked the pastors, the band and the singing societies for their help and read letters of regret from Rev. Theodore Brown and Rev. W.C. Roberts.
The people were reminded by Rev. Viewig that the religion of Christ was the corner stone of civilization.
“We are duty bound,” said he, “to uphold and defend this religion. Not only must we defend it but live it. There is no permanent growth without real religion. Faith and self sacrifice have in this instance been richly rewarded. May we ever continue in the exercise of these cardinal points of religious progress. Be instant in season and out of season, and remember that God’s reward is eternal.”
While the North Side Band played a selection, a substantial offering was taken up.
From both corners of the church fronting on First street floated a fine large flag. The right hand corner bore the flag of Germany while from the left hand corner flew the Stars and Stripes beneath which the corner stone was ready to be laid. When the band had finished, the stone was placed in position and Rev. Vieweg invoked God’s blessing upon the building. He was assisted by the visiting clergymen who were present and by the members of the church Council V. Rettig, William Hilk and Herman Richter.
Rev. N.E. Fuller of the Congregational church read a Bible lesson during the services.
Owing to the fact that the church has not at the present time a complete and corrected list of its members, the usual custom of placing articles of local interest within the corner stone was dispensed with. The services were concluded with prayer and benediction by Rev. Viewig.
The new building was dedicated in July of 1909.
The style of the new building was the same as the former building except that the central tower was rebuilt on the right corner, and the building was smaller. If you look at the pictures of the two structures, you see definitely that the rebuilt structure is an inferior structure aesthetically. Its dimensions are 56’ long by 25’ wide by 35’ high, much smaller than the original. Some of the numbers the masons used on the stones that form the windows and doors can still be seen. Also making the move from the Walnut Street location were the two side windows of the Triplet described above. They are presently on the north wall of the church, although covered up from the inside but visible from the outside. It seems, therefore, that since these windows are still part of the building that Faith has the oldest windows of any Corning church.
Although the building was placed on a poured concrete footer and foundation, the location soon caused structural problems for the building because the foundation on the Monkey Run side was set on loose material. The integrity of the building was compromised. A large crack opened on the lower northwestern corner necessitating foundation replacement at that location and clever mortar repairs between the stones above on both the west and north sides.
World War I interrupted services because of local hostility to Germany and German-speaking people, and for a brief time, the congregation held no services. After the war, the congregation declined and the church closed. The mother church in Elmira rented the building out to different congregations, such as the Seventh Day Adventist congregation now located on Fuller Avenue, and St. Mary’s Orthodox Church. During the time from about 1920 to the end of World War II, the building deteriorated somewhat.
The building was purchased by the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod’s Eastern District from the same German Evangelical Church of Elmira in 1942 to be used by the Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran Church. They had been renting the building prior to 1942.
The first notice for a worship service appeared in the Saturday, 22 April 1933 edition of the Corning Evening Leader:
THE ENGLISH EVANGELICAL
71 W. First Street
C. H. Miller, Pastor
70 East Pulteney St.
10:00-Morning Worship Service
[Notice: none of the Sundays in the ad have the first “s.”]
The Redeemer congregation was organized in 1934 with Rev. Carl Miller as their Pastor. Redeemer did not own the building until 1942. The cornerstone has two congregational names on it. The upper one is “Redeemer Evangelical Lutheran” with date of 1942. The building was dedicated in 1942 as the church building for Redeemer congregation, and they began using the building at that time as their own.
Following Pastor Miller’s service at Redeemer, there were several other pastors. Not knowing what exact years they served, they were: Rev. David Williams, Rev. John F. Panning and Rev. Lowell Hey. Rev. Louis Kaufman was called in 1960 and served two years, leaving in 1962.
The Rev. Frederick Greninger served as pastor of Redeemer, starting in 1962. He and his family lived in the parsonage owned by Redeemer congregation, which was on the southeast corner of Fifth Street and State Street. Pastor Greninger’s office at the church was in a room partitioned off in the south-west corner of the fellowship hall in the church basement. He was pastor of Redeemer until he left in 1971 to serve at Bethlehem Church in Johnson City, Tennessee.
The present interior design is the result of the work of architect Anne Hirsch, then of Hunt Studios of East Corning. The work was begun in 1970, before Pastor Greninger left, and was completed in 1975. The sanctuary has a dropped ceiling of redwood and a backwall of vertical and interspersed horizontal pieces of redwood. The work was done by a member of Redeemer who was also a contractor, Orville Vieselmeyer. The windows were a hodge-podge of opalescent style. They were replaced by stained glass windows from Willett Studios of Rochester, NY, using a theme throughout of the Lord’s Prayer.
The Rev. Frederick Jordan replaced Rev. Greninger at Redeemer in 1971. Jordan had just graduated from St. Louis Seminary. He was a product of the liberal movement that became prevalent at the seminary and resulted in the Seminex movement. Seminex became the alternative break-away, liberal seminary formed by professors and students from the LCMS St. Louis Seminary.
Pastor Jordan wanted a bigger office, and as a result, a one-story wooden addition was built on the rear of the church building in 1976. It houses the pastor’s study, two rest rooms and a wide hallway leading to the kitchen and the rest of the basement, consisting of the fellowship hall, storage room (former rest room included), and the stairs to the upstairs sanctuary. Pastor Jordan also wanted to purchase the parsonage, to which the congregation agreed. New families joined, some who came to work at Corning Glass, and they followed Rev. Jordan’s liberal tendencies.
THE BEGINNINGS OF FAITH LUTHERAN
The theology of Rev. Jordan led to uneasiness, reflection and study, frustration and eventual outright disagreement with him by members who believed the traditional teaching of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. The major problem revolved around the fact that many perceived Rev. Jordan did not believe that the Bible was the true, inspired, inerrant Word of God. Differences between Rev. Jordan and the conservative members widened and deepened. Church attendance dropped off.
A letter to the congregation written by Philip Kosty, dated May 21, 1974, reflects the agonizing debate going on inwardly and outwardly among the congregation’s conservative members.
Mr. Kosty’s Letter
209 Sharwill Pl.
May 21, 1974
Dear Friend in Christ,
I feel compelled to write this letter in order to communicate to you, in the event you are not already aware of it, the main, or underlying, issue dividing our Synod in these last days, that is…..the inerrancy of Holy Scripture. We believe the Bible to be the true, inerrant, verbally inspired Word of God—a book which alone can claim plenary perfection because it is, in fact, the very Word of God, our omnipotent, omniscient, ubiquitous creator. “The Bible is true in all things! Because God inspired the Bible to be written, every possibility or error, not only in the presentation of fundamental doctrines, but also in such references as pertain to nature and history, was eliminated from the very outset.” (excerpt from “Light From Above”, Alfred W. Koehler, Concordia Publishing House, 1960); “Thy Word is truth” (John 17:17); “When ye received the Word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the Word of God (I Thessalonians 2:13); “If you continue in my Word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free” (John 8:32); “Hence only the believer in the true God has discovered that the Bible is God’s Word, for only by accepting its truths can man be certain that the Bible is God’s Word.” (excerpt from “Light From Above”).
Now I realize that the preceding statements and scripture passages appear to be very fundamental and obvious to all, but, let me make one thing perfectly clear….not all Missouri Synod Lutherans believe these statements on which our doctrine concerning Scripture is based. This doctrine is set forth in our Confessions and further elucidated, amplified and attested to by our founding fathers – Luther, Pieper, Walther, etc.
There has arisen within our beloved Missouri Synod a heterodox, dissident, factious group corporately known as Evangelical Lutherans In Mission (ELIM). It is common knowledge that the “Elimites” and those of their ilk wish to effect a compromise whereby we (those who profess and adhere to the infallibility of the Scriptures) would countenance their preaching, and worse yet, their teaching (in our seminaries), that the Bible contains errors, myths, contradictions, inconsistencies, etc. In or with this false doctrine, we can not nor must not abide. Let us pertinaciously cling to the doctrine once delivered to us by the holy apostles – remain in, uphold and defend it at all costs to the very end.
Granted, there are other serious issues such as the so-called “historical-critical method” of Bible interpretation and the detrimental consequences of its application to Holy Writ. For the sake of brevity and in order to curb my desire to expatiate on indefinitely let me say this. On Sunday, May 10, 1973, upon leaving church a copy of the booklet “Occasional Papers” was placed in the hands of a representative from each household. If you read it, fine…….if not, please look it up and do so now. If you did not receive one or cannot find yours but wish to read it, I will gladly lend you my copy. This booklet explains the method and its inherent pitfalls. After reading this booklet, I feel certain you will understand why we must not condone its use in our seminaries and elsewhere as a valid means or method of Bible interpretation.
Again, let me reiterate, there are other issues such as the fellowship problem, unionistic services, our membership or affiliation with the L.C.U.S.A. and the N.C.C., but the nucleus of our problem is, and will remain, the inerrancy of Scripture. All other issues revolve around Scripture as they are doctrinal issues, and as our doctrine is taken directly from Scripture, these problems could be resolved if we were of “the same spirit” and believed the Scriptures aright as we all vowed to in accordance with our Lutheran Confessions.
Let me here interject a quote from “Occasional Papers”----a quote by Dr. Walther concerning the infallibility of scripture --- “If the possibility that the Scriptures contained the least error were admitted, it would become the business of man to sift the truth from the error. That placed man over Scripture and Scripture is no longer the source and norm of doctrine.”
Hence, if you cannot comprehend or rationalize, or better yet if some portion or verse of Scripture does not “square” with your thinking, rest assured, my friend, that the problem lies not in the Word of the Almighty, but in your finite mind.
Thus, we very appropriately recall the verses in Romans 11:33, 34 --- “O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? Or who hath been His Counselor?”
And, so, my dear Christian friend, let me leave you with this one observation – we are in the last days. Make no mistake about that. If we cannot purge our church of these false teachers, wolves in sheep’s clothing who have entered the sheepfold to scatter the flock, we must separate ourselves from them. Hear the words of Jesus in John 10:1-5. “Truly, truly I say to you, he who does not enter the sheepfold by the door, but climbs in another way, that man is a thief and a robber; but he who enters by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the gate keeper opens; the sheep hear his voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes before them, and the sheep follow him, for they know his voice. A stranger they will not follow, but they will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers.”
Again, God states in Romans 16:17-18 --- “I appeal to you, brethren, to take note of those who create dissensions and difficulties, in opposition to the doctrine which you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by fair and flattering words they deceive the hearts of the simple-minded.”
Likewise see ll Timothy 4:3 – “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears, they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own likings….” And in the same vein, note Titus 3:10 – “As for a man who is factious, after admonishing him once or twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is perverted and sinful; he is self-condemned.”
And so I state in closing, I cannot and will not compromise the doctrine of our beloved Missouri Synod. And with Luther I say –“Here I stand –I cannot do otherwise. God help me! Likewise in complete accord serve…..as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
Yours in Christ,
Phillip J. Kosty
“How long are you going to limp along on both sides? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal, follow him.” I Kings 18:21.
Matters came to a head in late 1976 at a meeting held at the church. The purpose of the meeting was to clarify the positions of the two groups. Rev. Jordan made sure as many of his supporters as possible were at the meeting. He stated at that time that he would be giving 30% of his time to the church since he had a radio program, he was going to serve in some capacity at Corning Community College, and he had other activities that would take his time. In the discussion that took place, the differences between the two groups were made clear. A vote was taken to determine who supported Pastor Jordan and who did not. Pastor Jordan’s supporters voted to withdraw from the Missouri Synod.
The conservative group, the minority, walked out of the meeting. They felt that because of Jordan’s liberal leadership they could no longer, as confessional Lutherans, continue to have Jordan lead them as a pastor. Those who walked out were: Ernest and Virginia Bodenstab, Daniel and Shirley Fraser, Phillip and Mary Kosty, David and Joan Manwarren, Floyd and Thelma Manwarren, Mrs. Leora Marland, Raymond and Jane Rosenwinkel, Sheila Smith, Clifford and Donna Youmans and Kenneth and Carol Zaun.
Daniel Fraser wrote some reflections on what led to the formation of the conservative group on the occasion of its 15th anniversary. It is dated January 19, 1992, and gives a glimpse into the “temper” of that time. Part of it follows:
Mr. Fraser’s Reflections:
God said, “This is my Son, in whom I am well pleased. Hear ye Him.” Note the last part – “Hear ye Him”. That is listen to Him, hear what he has to say. The Lord also said, “Be faithful unto death and I will give you a crown of life”!
So – fifteen years ago eighteen (18) people chose to remain faithful to our Lord. God accomplishes His work and gives His blessings through His people. Many people have been helped and many have received our Lord’s blessings through this congregation. For this we thank and praise our Lord.
Some of those who began with us are no longer with us. Some have already received their crown of eternal life.
We recall Floyd Manwarren telling the pastor at that time, that he stopped coming to church because his sermons were only a rehash of the local news and he could read that at home.
We remember Mrs. Marland, Jane Rosenwinkel’s mother and a very sweet wonderful lady, when she said plainly, “Pastor, you are wrong.” And he stated that because of his expensive education nobody was his equal. Therefore, there was nobody qualified to criticize him.
Fifteen years ago our first president was Ernest Bodenstab. The evening we voted to go our separate ways has to have been one of his finest hours. I, for one, was truly proud of him when in the face of much ridicule he put into words for us how, because God’s Word is inspired, inerrant, and infallible, we believe every word of it. He was truly a champion that evening.
Pastor Jordan continued to lead the majority group. They owned the church building, continuing to have Sunday School and worship services Sunday mornings, as well as their other church activities.
The first meeting of the minority group was held on January 6, 1977. The meeting minutes as follow, summarizing the issues facing the group.
January 6, 1977
The meeting was called to order at 7:15 PM by Dr. Ernest Bodenstab, acting chairman, and was opened with prayer by Jane Rosenwinkel.
Dr. Bodenstab’s opening remarks recounted the events that have occurred within our congregation during the past weeks (i.e. it’s withdrawal from Missouri synod and the split that resulted).
A general discussion followed regarding the purpose of our meeting. It was decided that we will call ourselves Missouri Synod Lutherans of Corning, New York. The following officers were elected: Dr. Bodenstab, Chairman, Jane Rosenwinkel, Secretary and Tim Fraser, Treasurer.
A motion was made by Mary Kosty, amended by Dr. Bodenstab, and seconded by Mrs. Manwarren that we continue as a Missouri Synod congregation under the existing constitution and attempt to hold worship services, teach our children and spread the gospel of Jesus Christ in our community. This carried unanimously.
A motion by Mrs. Manwarren and seconded by Virginia Mapes asking that Ray Rosenwinkel contact Pastor Ritt, our Circuit Counselor, for the purpose of inviting him to our next meeting to advise us in our efforts to organize under Missouri Synod. This carried unanimously.
Dan Fraser made a motion, seconded by Phil Kosty, that representatives from our group attend the Redeemer church council meeting, Sunday, January 9th, for the purpose of asking permission to rent the church facilities for three hours each week. This passed unanimously and Ken Zaun and Ray Rosenwinkel were selected as our representatives.
Ken Zaun expressed concern regarding a Sunday School and Confirmation program for our children and hopes for an answer to these questions soon.
Dr. Bodenstab shared this concern and suggested we form a committee to decide on procedures and organize services, the first to be held on Sunday, January 16th, if we have a place to worship.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM and closed with the Lord’s Prayer.
Respectfully submitted - Jane Rosenwinkel, Acting Secretary
It was not Pastor Ritt, the circuit counselor, who gave assistance to the group, but it was Pastor Donald Cario of Trinity Lutheran Church in Ithaca, N.Y.
The minority group was given permission to use the Redeemer Church building. The first worship service the group held was on Jan. 16, 1977. It was held in the Redeemer Church building at 2:30 in the afternoon. Ferdinand Rodriguez, a layman from Trinity Lutheran in Ithaca, delivered the sermon. Eighteen members and seven visitors were present. The heading of the bulletin from that service reads, “Redeemer Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod.” This date was decided later as being the first meeting date and official anniversary date of Faith Lutheran Church.
Rev. Cario had the worship service with communion the following Sunday, Jan. 23. He stayed for a meeting at the church held after the service. He offered to have a communion service in Corning on the fourth Sunday of each month. He urged the group “to organize, affiliate with Synod, and start Sunday School and adult Bible classes as soon as possible.” He also asked that we soon consider mission giving. The decision was made to order material for Sunday School, confirmation and adult Bible classes.
Dan Fraser reported at this meeting that he had contacted Pastor Oien from Cortland, Pastor Dubrena from Binghamton, as well as Pastor Ritt, the circuit counselor. All had expressed willingness to help as time allowed.
The initial meeting of the LWML was held on Wed., Feb. 16, at the home of Jane Rosenwinkel. Carol Zaun presented the topic from the LWML quarterly.
The third meeting of the minority group was held on Jan. 30 after the 2:30 PM worship service. Teachers were selected for education classes as follows: Dr. Bodenstab – adult class; Jim Kosty – junior high and high school, Mary Kosty – nursery and primary; and Phil Kosty, confirmation. Pastor Cario agreed to review the confirmation class periodically. Ken Zaun reported that an unofficial proposal was received from Redeemer suggesting the minority group pay $90 per month for the use of the church facilities. Dan Fraser suggested that someone make hospital and shut-in calls. Jane Rosenwinkel and Mary Kosty agreed to do this.
In the Feb. 20, 1977 bulletin, Sunday School is listed in the bulletin heading for the first time. Sunday School was held at 1:30 PM.
The following information is taken from the minutes of the March 20, 1977 meeting held after the worship service:
A short meeting was held after the Sunday worship service with Pastor Oien in attendance.
The first order of business was the choice of a name for our congregation. With a vote of 21 to 2, it was decided that henceforth we will be known as Faith Lutheran Church, Corning, New York.
Ken Zaun, noting that the Redeemer congregation leaves Missouri Synod officially on March 31, 1977, made a motion that a letter be sent to Synod informing them that those members of Redeemer Lutheran who wish to remain in the Missouri Synod have now come together as members of Faith Lutheran Church. This was seconded by Dan Fraser and passed unanimously.
Our acting chairman, Dr. Bodenstab, suggested that we give thought to the adoption of a Constitution, probably the one that has served us well these past years.
Ray Rosenwinkel, acting treasurer, made a motion that we increase the stipend for our guest pastors from 25 to 35 dollars. This was seconded by Floyd Manwarren and passed unanimously.
On the fifteenth anniversary of Faith’s founding, Dan Fraser remembered this time, as follows:
Do you remember how we came by our name Faith? It took two or three weeks, it seems. Everybody was looking for the right name, but when Cliff Youmans presented his reasons for it being “Faith”, they were so convincing that it became unanimous. It was a very fitting name at the time and it still is today.
Without our faith we have nothing. Take note that God’s blessings always comes through a person’s faith, as Jesus always said “Your faith comes from the Word.” God has truly blessed us now in giving us a faithful servant who serves us His word and sacraments, in all their truth and purity.
For all this we are truly grateful.
The heading in the bulletins henceforth says, “Faith Lutheran Church.”
A committee was formed to write a constitution for Faith Church. Using Redeemer’s constitution as its model, the committee presented the results of its work at a meeting held on July 24 after the worship service. A vote was taken on accepting the constitution presented by the committee. The constitution was accepted by a unanimous vote. Ray Rosenwinkel volunteered to approach a Mr. Harry Treinen, an attorney, to request information regarding the incorporation of Faith Lutheran Church. Attorney Treinen was to contact Pastor Hill, the circuit counselor and a Synod attorney.
Faith’s first class of catechumens was confirmed by Pastor Ritt on Oct. 2, 1977.
The first choir practice is listed in the Oct. 23 bulletin as being tentatively set for every Thursday evening.
At the October 14, 1977 meeting, a slate of officers for the coming year was presented by the nominating committee as follows:
The nominating committee presented the following slate of officers for the coming year:
- President – Ernest Bodenstab
- Treasurer – Ray Rosenwinkel
- Financial Secretary – Ken Zaun
- Secretary – Donna Youmans
- Elders – Phil Kosty and Dan Fraser
- Trustees – Cliff Youmans and Mel Schlicker
- Sunday School Superintendent – Jim Kosty
- Stewardship Secretary – Mary Kosty
- Evangelism Co-Chairman – Helen Graf and Marlene Schlicker
It was moved and seconded that the secretary cast one vote for the entire slate. This carried unanimously.
At the same meeting, the treasurer presented a proposal from Redeemer congregation which would increase the monthly rent for the building from $90 to $110. The matter was tabled, after discussion, for a future meeting. A decision followed concerning the possibility of Faith having a building of their own in which to worship, such as a trailer or a new building. “It was suggested that the trustees look for a suitable property and that the budget for the coming year contain a building fund.” Faith also asked Redeemer for a storage cabinet for their supplies and also a calendar of Redeemer’s upcoming events.
Faith’s first Sunday School Christmas program was held on Saturday night, December 17, 1977. The LWML also organized a Christmas dinner for that evening. It was decided that Christmas gifts be given to Pastors Cario, Oien and Boriack. These three – Rev. Donald Cario form Trinity Lutheran in Ithaca, Rev. Mark Oien of St. Paul’s Lutheran in Cortland, and Rev. Paul Boriack, pastor emeritus of St. John’s, Rome, and vacancy pastor at Christ Church, Interlaken, were the mainstay guest pastors who faithfully led the worship service at Faith during the first year. Rev. Thomas Dobrena of Ascension Lutheran in Binghamton, Rev. Daniel Gunderlach of Holy Trinity, Chenango Bridge and Ferdinand Rodriguez and Herbert Israel, laymen from Trinity Lutheran, Ithaca, also kindly led worship services at Faith.
At the January 22, 1978 meeting, Faith’s trustees reported meeting with a trustee of Redeemer to thank him for adding Faith’s name and time of service to the sign. They also established Saturday mornings as the time for Faith’s organist to practice, arranged for a storage area for Faith, and determined Faith could use the church on Tuesday nights for choir practice. Pastor Jordan would continue to be the contact person for special use of the church, and it was suggested they post a calendar which could be used by both churches to schedule events.
At this meeting, Faith’s trustees reported that they had been looking into other facilities for holding church services, including a store front that would rent for $350 to $375 per month, property selling for $29,900, and land for building purposes. It was decided that a capital outlay for a building fund would be established, starting with a $2,000 surplus from the savings account. Fifty dollars would be put in the building fund each month.
Mary Kosty reported at this meeting that Pastor Cario had suggested Faith contact the Wellsboro congregation, Trinity Lutheran, to explore the possibility of extending a call to a pastor to serve both congregations. Wellsboro, with membership of 150, had been without a pastor for 13 months after extending several calls, the reason being monetary. Church attendance was falling off.
Subsequently, South Central circuit counselor, David Ritt, helped both congregations come to a dual ministry agreement. The expectation was that by joining forces, the two congregations could support one minister. They agreed to apply for a 1978 seminary graduate. Wellsboro, a larger congregation, would extend the call, and the pastor would live in Wellsboro.
The dual ministry agreement was worked out and signed by both congregations on May 7, 1978. Rev. Terrance L. Weber, graduating in May from the St. Louis Seminary, accepted the call and was installed on Aug. 13, 1978, at a service in the Wellsboro church. Pastors Cario, Oien and Boriack served most frequently as guest pastors with Pastor Gary Hill from Owego and Pastor David Gunderlach and laymen filling in to lead worship services until Pastor Weber was installed.
Being the smaller congregation, Pastor Weber spent an average of 1-1/2 days a week at Faith. The schedule was set up as follows: on the first full week of the month, Pastor Weber would be at Corning on Monday; second week – Tuesday and Thursday; third week – Wednesday; fourth week – Tuesday and Thursday. Pastor Weber’s office at Corning was a partitioned-off corner of the fellowship hall with mostly new furniture.
From the start, Faith was in contact with district leaders, informing them of their developing situation, looking for guidance and looking for recognition as a Missouri Synod congregation. Redeemer had soon left the Missouri Synod (on March 31, 1977) and affiliated with the A.E.L.C.
Faith congregation and its LWML had their constitution in order and were received into membership in the LCMS at the district convention in Olean held June 23-25, 1978. Its certificate of membership is dated June 23, 1978.
Meanwhile, the search for another site to hold worship services had moved forward when the possibility of land for sale in East Corning on Goff Road came up. This was reported at the February 2, 1978 meeting. The property was available, but there was a problem in that, at that date, Faith had not been formally accepted in the LCMS, they were not incorporated in accordance with the Religious Corporation of New York State, and funding was a problem.
It was decided at the March 12, 1978 congregational meeting that congregation members would be asked to transfer personal savings to the church building fund. By the April 16 meeting, $8,600 had been pledged for purchasing the property. On May 21, the motion to sign the purchase offer passed. Once the congregation became a member of the LCMS, they could apply for a loan, but they could not wait until June to sign the purchase offer, thus the need to raise the money from the congregation. At the June 18 meeting, in anticipation of being accepted into the LCMS at the end of the month, the members voted to apply for a loan from the Church Extension Fund in the amount of $15,800. The purchase offer was signed by July 16, and the deed was recorded in the Steuben County clerk’s office on September 18, 1978.
The year of 1978 was thus another busy, critical and certainly stressful one for the Faith congregation. They accomplished joining the LCMS, purchasing property on which to build a new church building and establishing a dual ministry with the Wellsboro congregation. From its start, the members of Faith took the initiative to work tirelessly to assure that Christian education at all ages was taking place – from the cradle roll, through the levels of Sunday School, confirmation classes, Bible studies and adult instruction classes. The congregation was also involved in evangelism as it was in visiting the sick and shut-ins. The congregation members took on these tasks themselves in the face of not having a full-time pastor. Lenten, Advent and other special services were organized and held as best as could be done, with the times and personnel that were available.
In February of 1979, Pastor Jordan notified the Faith congregation that they no longer had to pay the $110 monthly rent, but Faith voted to pay the amount monthly for the rest of the year since it had been budgeted for the year.
At the April, 1979 meeting, it was decided that there would be alternative monthly council and congregational meetings. No differentiation had been made previous to this in the minutes as to whether it was a council or congregational meeting, but the designation was made from then on in the minutes. No difference is evident as to what was discussed at the two types of meeting. The same person was the secretary for each.
At the June 29, 1980 congregational meeting, after several alternatives were discussed, it was decided to change the time of worship and Sunday School to Saturday with the worship service being at 6:00 PM and “Sunday” School at 5:00 PM. It was to continue until the first Saturday in September.
Money was regularly added to the building fund, but it was a struggle to meet the regular monthly expenses of the congregation. The regular expenses, of course, were of primary importance. It became apparent to the congregation that the Eastern District officials did not look with favor on Faith. The church wanted to get financial assistance from the district so they could move forward with their building program. At the September, 1980 council meeting, Pastor Weber reported, after meeting and talking with these officials, “since they did not want another church here and do not want another mission, they are going to keep an eye on us to see if we are a good investment. We can apply for financial aid and see what happens, but district is not giving us any words of encouragement or financial assistance at this time.”
Efforts to combine the Faith congregation with a mission in the Bath area was explored in 1981, but no progress was made. District funds would have been available to bring such a union about.
The expiration of the Dual Ministry Agreement was expanded to August 13, 1982. The original agreement on the time Pastor Weber was to spend in Corning had deteriorated to less than 25%. At the July, 1982 meeting, the dual ministry was extended for another year.
At this same July council meeting, after having been discussed for several months, it was voted that starting in 1983, the council would meet every month, voters’ (congregation) quarterly, with the council meeting being combined with the quarterly voters’ meeting.
The congregation, starting in 1982, made a big push to progress with plans to get a church structure built on the Goff Road property after considering their options as the congregation saw them at that time: 1) develop the property; 2) rent another building; 3) buy a house separate from the property; 4) stay at the present location, or 5) relocate to another church. The first option was chosen.
Various clean-up sessions were held, and efforts were made to get a road built on the property. Lack of money, of course, was the main problem. All options available at the time for financing the project were explored, but none was feasible. The five were as follows: 1) getting a $50,000 loan from the Eastern District Church Extension Fund, which required $12,500 to be deposited in their bank first. The loan was repayable at 9% ($402.32 monthly) over 20 years; 2) getting a local bank loan. The interest rate would be much higher than from the Extension Fund; 3) getting matching grant funds from AAL or Lutheran Brotherhood, but neither had grants that applied to Faith’s needs; 4) getting private investors, but hadn’t found any, and 5) getting membership pledges amounting to $50,000. The last two options were unrealistic.
In November, a Land Development Campaign was started to continue into 1983. The goal was to raise $3,000. Congregational representatives met with an architect from Connell and Hersh and discussed developing plans for a church building. The architect’s cost for the plan was $750.
A highlight of 1982 was a visit by Dr. Oswald Hoffman, Lutheran Hour speaker, in April. He preached at Faith on April 16 at 6:00 PM. A reception was held after the service.
At the January 15, 1983 council meeting, Pastor Weber was granted his request for a 10-day leave of absence. As it ended up, Pastor Weber’s last service at Faith was on January 29, 1983. He resigned his dual-ministry position effective February 2, 1983.
Again, Faith was without a pastor, and again they went to Pastor Donald Cario from Trinity in Ithaca for guidance. Pastor Cario was the circuit counselor. He suggested that Pastor Lindemann of Interlaken be contacted to serve as supply pastor at Faith. Pastor Lindemann accepted, saying he would serve as long as needed.
The Wellsboro congregation put in an application for a vicar, the Rev. Neilson of Tonawanda, without the knowledge of Faith. Faith learned about it at their March 5 meeting. Faith was to notify Wellsboro by April l if they wanted to join them again in a dual ministry agreement. At a special congregation meeting Faith held on Saturday, March 19, the vote was unanimous in opposition.
At this same March 19, 1983 congregational meeting, it was voted to have Congregational meetings every month for better input and to keep all informed on the status of the ministry at Faith. Council meetings were to be held between congregational meetings if necessary.
Faith’s options for having a pastor were explored at the March 19th meeting also. It was decided to put a request in to the mission board for a subsidy to help pay for a full-time pastor, but nothing became of it.
Pastor Weber’s office had been in the Youman’s house. It was discontinued with the furniture being dispersed at the discretion of the trustees after several months of discussion.
It was suggested at the May 7, 1983 meeting that Pastor Lindemann serve Faith for three weeks a month, another pastor from the circuit serve for one week and a lay speaker from Faith serve when there was a fifth Sunday. Pastor Lindemann’s duties, besides holding the scheduled Sunday services, were visiting the ill, conducting baptisms, funerals, etc. He received a flat rate of $200 per month, and other pastors and laymen conducting the service would receive $50 per service.
Pastor Cario was replaced with Pastor Gary Hill of Owego as circuit counselor by June of 1983.
Phil Kosty reported at the June 2, 1984 congregational meeting that Pastor Lindemann had decided against continuing as vacancy pastor. He had served about one year. Pastor Hill was there to guide Faith as they again contended without either a vacancy or permanent pastor.
Pastor Hill reported at the July 7, 1984 congregational meeting that he contacted Pastor Leber of Wellsboro. He would serve as Faith’s vacancy pastor, serving the first, third and fifth Sundays, and also providing the usual pastoral services as needed for a monthly fee of $200. Pastor Hill and Mr. Warren Ruland would serve the second and fourth Sundays. Pastor Hill also reported at that same meeting that Pastor Kromphardt, Eastern District president, noted that a Pastor Russell P. Kerns, Sr. as a possible retired pastor. He would be retiring from his church in Pennsylvania March 1, 1984 (sic) when he reached his 65th birthday. He wanted to serve as a retired pastor somewhere in the area and was interested in Faith after hearing of their needs. After studying Faith’s financial status, it was determined Faith could support a retired pastor. Meetings were subsequently arranged with Pastor Kerns, including visits to the church and him visiting Faith over the next few months. Pastor and Mrs. Kerns came to Faith with him conducting the worship service on October 20, 1984. At the November 10, 1984 congregational meeting, Phil Kosty read a letter from Pastor Kerns regretting that, after much thought and prayer, he regretted that he would not be able to service Faith in the capacity of pastor.
Going back to the July 7, 1984 meeting, Ray Rosenwinkel read a letter from Kathy Braum, President of Redeemer congregation, in which she asked that their officers and Faith’s officers meet to discuss possibilities of affiliation with other Lutheran churches in Corning since Pastor Jordan would be leaving. They met on July 31. Pastor Jordan was leaving August 12. Redeemer’s goal was to have all the congregations come together as one group, but the Faith representatives made it clear that they would remain in the LCMS and that the members of Redeemer were always welcome to become part of Faith. Pastor Allen of Emanuel, Corning, would serve as Redeemer’s interim pastor.
At the December 1, 1984 congregational meeting, Ken Zaun, who had been serving as janitor for the Redeemer congregation, reported that he had been notified that his duties would be terminated January 1, 1985. In talking with Redeemer members, Ken learned that Redeemer would be selling the church property and Faith would have the first option to buy. Redeemer members were meeting the next day, December 2, to finalize their future plans.
Meanwhile, the architect had been proceeding with architectural plans for a church building on the Goff Road property. At the September 10, 1983 congregation meeting, Ray Rosenwinkel, president, reported that the architect had met with him and presented a four-phase plan for constructing the new church building. The first phase would cost about $50,000 which would give a space equivalent to the upstairs of the church building they were using. To complete the second phase would cost an additional $115,000. No description was given of what this entailed, and no information was given on the third and fourth phase.
Also, by the March 5, 1983 congregational meeting, only two-thirds of the $3,000 building fund goal had been reached. At the May 7 meeting, it was reported that the fund was $400 short of its $3,000 goal. The goal was apparently reached by July. Thus, the goal was met, but with much effort and struggle. It was clear that to build on the property would be very costly, and it had been a struggle to raise $10,000 for the building fund. It is not surprising, then, that the following meeting took place and what was decided.
A special congregational meeting of Faith Lutheran Church was held on December 15, 1984. The meeting was opened at 7:10 PM by President Ray Rosenwinkel.
President Rosenwinkel read a letter from Kathy Braum, President of Redeemer Lutheran Church, stating that the Redeemer congregation was disbanding and offering to Faith the property and unremovable [sic] contents, such as organ, pews, chancel furniture, for the sum of $5,000, plus closing costs, attorney’s fees, etc.
A motion was made by Dan Fraser, seconded by Phil Kosty, to accept the purchase offer. The motion was opened for discussion.
Discussion that followed involved cost of upkeep, why the set amount of $5,000, and several other issues.
Ernest Bodenstab moved that we table the motion to purchase the property until we had more time to look into the above matters. Motion to table was put to a vote and defeated.
The previous motion to purchase the property was put to vote, and was unanimously approved. There were no dissenting votes, and no abstaining votes.
President Rosenwinkel was requested to move ahead with necessary action to bring to closure by the date of January 14th which was requested by Redeemer congregation.
Meeting adjourned at 7:55 PM.
Shirley A. Olinger, Secretary
The Redeemer congregation disbanded after holding its final service in the First Street building the last Sunday in December of 1984. Redeemer’s members were received into membership at Emanuel Lutheran Church, located at 149 West William Street in Corning.
Faith congregation acted quickly in 1985 to care for their “new” property and made changes to suit their needs. Attorney Carman Puccio was contacted to represent Faith in the purchase of the property, his charge being $300. Ken Zaun agreed to resume custodial duties. Insurance on the building was purchased. The Missouri Synod was contacted notifying them that Faith was purchasing the building. A lawn mower and refrigerator were acquired. It was decided in March to begin holding worship services at 11:00 AM on Sundays starting in April. The Redeemer sign was removed and replaced with a new sign for Faith. It was approved to buy an electric stove with two ovens. The office furniture that had been in Pastor Weber’s office was rounded up and brought to the church as the Redeemer congregation had removed all movable property. Ads were put in the local papers for Sunday School and worship services. Various building repairs and improvements were done.
Pastor Leber continued as vacancy pastor. Vicar David King from Grayling, MI, was installed on June 1, 1986 and served the congregation through the end of August. By the September 7 meeting of 1986, there was discussion regarding calling a retired pastor, a full-time pastor, or a vicar. Options for obtaining financial help were discussed.
The congregation moved quickly in this direction. A special congregational meeting was held on Friday, September 12, 1986 to discuss calling a vicar or pastor. Pastor Frederick Greninger had made known to members of Faith that he would like to return. It was voted to extend a call of three years to Pastor Greninger. The congregation would pay moving expenses. Another special congregational meeting was held on September 21, 1986. It was decided that Pastor Greninger would be offered $10,000 per year for 1986 and 1987. Of the $10,000, $5,100 would be for rent, $2,000 for utilities, $1,030 for pension and $1,870 for a salary.
Pastor Greninger accepted the call and was installed as Pastor of Faith on October 12, 1986. The congregation had a dinner to say “thank you” to Pastor Leber.
An “Alive in Faith-Phase I” program was initiated when Pastor Greninger came in 1986. It dealt with pastoral compensation. The committee met before budget finalization each year with the purpose being to build up the pastoral fund in anticipation of adequately compensating Pastor Greninger and another pastor when Pastor Greninger retired.
Pastor Greninger’s annual salary was raised to $12,000 for 1988, with $7,100 as the housing allowances, $1,165 for pension and disability paid to the synodical pension fund, and $3,735 as salary. Pastor was loaned $5,000 from the congregation’s building fund interest-free in lieu of a salary increase for 2-1/2 years. Pastor needed the money to use to buy a house.
A special congregational meeting was held April 23, 1989, at the end of the three-year tenured call. At this time, Pastor Greninger stated he wanted a full pastoral call, not another tenured call. Several meetings were held with much discussion, leading to a vote held at a special congregational meeting on June 11, 1989, extending a full divine call to Pastor Greninger, a call with no ending date.
The first Faith parish newsletter was printed September 24, 1989, under Pastor Greninger’s leadership.
Going back to 1988, at the January 5 council meeting, a letter was read from William Fisher of 90 Goff Road. Mr. Fisher offered to purchase the property the church owned on that road. No action was taken at that time.
Meanwhile, in 1991, John Abercrombie, at no cost, appraised the Goff Road property for the church. It was valued at $32,000 to $36,000 with a legal right-of-way. If there were no right-of-way, the value would decrease. The original cost of the property was $16,000.
Sale of the property came up about three years later in October of 1992 at the voter’s meeting on the fourth. It was reported that the planning committee had recommended disposal of the property. It was voted that Mr. Fisher be contacted by letter to determine his interest at this time.
A special voter’s meeting was held on February 14, 1993 to deal with the issue:
President Fraser called a special meeting of Faith Congregation to order at 11:55 AM for the purpose of finalizing the decision to sell the East Corning property.
President Fraser noted that each member had received an evaluation report on the property stating the value to be between $32,000 - $36,000. At the January 3, 1993 Voter’s meeting, it was moved and seconded and carried that beginning asking price be $36,000.
President Fraser asked if there were any questions from the Voters’ [sic] regarding the evaluation report. There were none.
It was moved by Emmett King that the East Corning property be put up for sale. Motion was seconded and with no further discussion, it was carried by a unanimous vote.
Following the disposition of the property, President Fraser will appoint a committee to investigate how best to invest the funds.
Motion to adjourn at 11:59 AM.
Following the meeting, President Fraser instructed Secretary, Shirley A. Olinger to contact Mr. William Fisher by letter notifying him of decision and selling price. Mr. Fisher had declared an interest in the property if we were to sell.
The following was reported in the minutes of the March 7, 1993 council meeting:
“A letter was received from William Fisher offering $30,000 for the property. Jean Fraser moved that the Council recommend to the Voter’s [sic] to accept Mr. Fisher’s offer of $30,000. Motion was seconded and carried.
A special Voter’s [sic] meeting will be held on March 21st to present to Voter’s [sic] the Council’s recommendation on the East Corning property. President will contact Mr. Fisher noting our plans. Faith will be responsible for their own legal fees.
The Trustees will be responsible for handling the sale of the property. Monies will be deposited in the Extension Fund (Savings) at the present time.”
The special voters’ meeting was actually held on March 28, 1993, recorded as follows:
“President Fraser called a special meeting of Faith Congregation to order at 11:59 AM for the purpose of presenting to the Voters the Council’s recommendation to sell the East Corning property to Mr. William Fisher for $30,000.
President Fraser noted that the insert in today’s Bulletin explained that Mr. Fisher has made a counter offer of $30,000 for the property. Our asking price was $36,000. President Fraser stated that Faith had paid $16,900 for the land when it was originally purchased. He also noted that Mr. Fisher owns all the property surrounding Faith’s property.
A question was posed as to what was planned with the money from the sale. President Fraser noted that there were no plans for the use of the funds, and it will be deposited in the in the Church Extension Fund savings account.
Philip Kosty moved that we accept Mr. Fisher’s offer of $30,000 for the East Corning property, seconded by Emmett King and, voting by a show of hands, the motion was passed unanimously.”
We will return to April of 1990. At the congregational meeting on the first, “Alive in Faith – Phase II” program was approved. The program’s goal was to make improvements to the church. The work determined to be needed was to purchase a new organ, install a cross at the rear of the church, check the electrical work to insure fire safety, repair the windows and get storm windows, and repair the hallway and stairway. All the work was done taking several years to complete. Martha Wiesel purchased an illuminated bronze 18’ x 12’ cross for the rear of the church in memory of her husband, Floyd. A new organ was purchased. Wall-to-wall carpeting was purchased in 1991 from Cutler’s for the narthex, hallway and stairs.
A committee was formed to develop plans for a way to celebrate Faith’s fifteen-year anniversary as a congregation in 1992. Virginia Butler chaired the committee. The committee gave a report on their suggestions at Faith’s August 4, 1991 meeting a follows:
- Committee has met and suggested theme to be “Thanksgiving.”
- Propose Festival Service in January, 1992. Faith’s official anniversary date is January 16, 1977. Pastor will solicit help that he needs.
- Prayer Vigil List – names of people and an individual will pray for them throughout the year.
- Congregational Dinner – Go out to some restaurant so no member will have to prepare or serve dinner.
- Thanksgiving to the Lord – each member donate 15% (15-year anniversary) to be given to some program outside of Faith.
- Invite Pastors who have served Faith – have pictures of them hung in a prominent place.
- Placing of new Cornerstone.
The anniversary events were held throughout 1992. The congregational dinner was at the Lodge on the Green. The thanksgiving donation was described as follows by chairman, Virginia Butler.
“Faith Lutheran Church celebrated its 15th year as a congregation in January, 1992.
As part of our year-long celebration, we chose to gather a special thank-offering to the Lord for all His benefits to us – especially that of our faith in Jesus Christ as our personal Savior, and the joy this faith has given each one of us. We decided to call our special thank-offering, Ebenezer, based on I Samuel 7:10-12. We also decided that this special offering would be sent out of our local congregation – following our Lord’s command to preach the Gospel everywhere.”
The Ebenezer thank-offering has continued as an annual event. It was matched with Lutheran Brotherhood funds resulting in a significant contribution to the chosen recipient each year. Different Lutheran organizations received the offering throughout the years.
In April of 1992, Duane Hills of Hill’s Monument Service donated the plaque for the cornerstone of Faith.
In 1993, “Alive in Faith – Phase III”, with the goal of renovating the downstairs of the church was begun. Bids were solicited and the low bid from Adam Kautz for $9,996 was accepted. The July 18, 1993 report of the renovation committee included the following:
This work will entail stripping the basement, including removing the folding partition and the carpeting on the floor and walls. New ceiling, lighting, doors, carpeting, and side walls will be installed as well as new doors. A new entrance door will be installed opposite the pastor’s office with a new sill and overhang with recessed light. All trash will be removed from the church and church property when the job is finished and the basement will be cleaned during renovation so that Sunday School can be held there.
Colors of carpeting and walls will be the choice of members of Faith. Movable partitions will be purchased as part of the renovation to be used to divide Sunday School classes.
The committee recommended using $15,000 from the sale of the Corning property for these renovations.
Pastor Greninger told the congregation on January 13, 1995 that he would be retiring. He would continue to serve Faith, but by retiring, he could receive Social Security and allow his wife, Rosemary, to work part-time. Pastor would “retire” only for the purposes of receiving a pension and Social Security. His call was open-ended in that he could terminate his services any time, but he agreed to give the congregation enough advance notice so they could initiate a call to a new pastor.
That time came about a year later. A special congregational meeting was held on February 25, 1996 to discuss the meeting the elders and President Ernie Kosan had with Pastor Greninger concerning his retirement at the end of the year. At the March 3, 1996 voters’ meeting, Dan Fraser was appointed chairman of the call committee. Volunteers for the committee were asked for from the congregation.
The minutes from the December 1, 1996 meeting record the following regarding the call committee’s meeting on November 21:
“Recommendation of Committee to congregation is to present Pastor Greninger an offer to serve as 6-month Interim Pastor. Motion by Shirley Olinger to pay Pastor Greninger $100 per week for service, $200 for Holy Week (Monday through Saturday) and $50 for Ash Wednesday, and Pastor will publish bulletins, teach Catechism, cover sermons and make sick calls. Motion was seconded and unanimously accepted. Pastor Greninger verbally accepted the offer as Interim Pastor as outlined in the motion.”
The call committee continued it work as the year progressed. The Eastern District was not eager to supply Faith with a call list. The call committee turned to an announcement in Christian News. Several pastors showed an interest in receiving a call. The committee put together a financial package including housing and insurance.
Pastor Gerhard Peter Grabenhofer, of Copperas Cove, Texas was chosen at the March 3, 1997 congregational meeting to be issued a call by the congregation. A financial package was presented at the April 6, 1997 meeting. It totaled $27,000, broken down as follows: housing, $10,140; salary, $11,000; benefits, $1,860; health insurance, $4,000. A vote was taken to extend a formal call to Pastor Grabenhofer with the proposed financial package. Pastor Belasic, President of the Eastern District, guided Faith through the call process.
After considering the call, it was announced at the June 1, 1997 congregational meeting that Pastor Grabenhofer had returned the call. It was voted to extend Pastor Greninger’s contract for six months.
The congregation voted at the July 16, 1997 meeting to make an offer to purchase the property at 386 Victory Highway in Painted Post. This was rental property asking $107,000. The property was considered for purchase because of the income it could bring the church, mainly to support a pastor. After exploring this option at the February 1, 1998 congregational meeting, it was reported that such an undertaking would not be feasible. It was determined that increased giving by the congregation was the only option.
By March 8, 1998, the call committee had come up with a revised pastoral financial package as follows: housing, $12,000; salary, $15,000; health insurance, $4,000; and benefits, $3,000. The total was $34,000.
The call committee also reported that there were now three names on the call list, but Pastor Grabenhofer was still the leading candidate.
A special congregational call meeting was held on March 8, 1998, at which time it was voted to extend the call to Pastor Grabenhofer for the second time.
Pastor Grabenhofer accepted the call. He and his family – wife Marianne and daughter Sigrid visited Faith in April of 1998. He was installed as Faith’s second full time pastor on May 31, 1998.
Some changes, as is to be expected, were made with a new pastor being in charge. The congregation went back to exclusive use of The Lutheran Hymnal for the liturgy. Pastor Grabenhofer has continued with the Tuesday evening and Thursday morning bible studies. Some highlights of the bible studies include the congregation, beginning in 2000, reading/ studying the Bible from cover to cover over the course of two years. This same format was used in 2006 for a year-long study of the Lutheran Confessions.
In 1995, prior to coming to Faith, Pastor Grabenhofer had started translating from German to English Das walte Gott! a book of daily devotions from the sermons of C.F.W. Walther. It was published by Concordia Publishing House in the summer of 2006 under the English title God Grant It.
In 2000, Pastor Grabenhofer initiated a class teaching the Greek language, and is still being held to this day. The chancel has been enhanced by an altar rail and new communion ware. The vestibule is enhanced with the pictures of Pastor Greninger and Pastor Grabenhofer, side by side.
On December 25, 2009, Pastor Greninger passed from this life to his heavenly home in heaven. We rejoice in his service to Faith for many years.
The congregation has been blessed to receive, via memorials, a new chalice and ciborium and paten in 2007. A cabinet to house the sacramental vessels was given to the glory of God by Dan and Jean Fraser in 2011. In November 2012 the congregation dedicated new banners for Advent and Lent and on the following Easter Sunday banners for Easter. Again on 28 December 2014, the congregation dedicated for use in the Lord’s house two Christmas banners crafted by Carol Zaun and Karen Weiner.
With the growing numbers of young boys in the congregation, Faith began an altar service program in which the young boys are trained to be acolytes, to serve as crucifers and to assist the pastor at the altar. Memorial funds were used to purchase an antique, 90 year old, processional crucifix and albs for the boys. The cross was dedicated on 18 August 2013. The first class of boys was installed on 22 September 2013 with service beginning on the Feast of St. Michael and All Angels.
The summer of 2015 brought an expression of thanks to our Lord for His gifts to us in the Sacrament of the Altar. In June kneeling pads were purchased to allow ease of kneeling to receive the Sacrament. In July, the congregation began offering the Sacrament every Sunday—on the first, third and fifth Sundays of the month during the service and on the second and fourth Sundays after a service of Morning Prayer or Matins. On the Feast Day of St. Philip and St. James 2016, the congregation received with thanksgiving and dedicated to service in the Lord’s house two new candlesticks with candles that use liquid wax, and a pulpit hanging depicting Christ the Teacher.
Compiled by Carol Fagnan from information gathered from Pastor Greninger’s history of the church building. Virginia Butler’s research on the church’s history, information from remaining founding members of Faith, and mainly information gathered from the church bulletins, meeting minutes and church newsletters. Original news articles located by Dieter Grabenhofer. Many thanks also to Christ Episcopal Church for information from their archives. Originally completed in September, 2010 with updates periodically added.