Synodical Conference Convention Proceedings St. Louis, Missouri — 1954, Page 140

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140 Proceedings of the Forty-Third Convention,

and lectern paraments. Why do we say, “a healthy step”? In work-
ing on the altar, the old missal stand was removed to be re-covered.
A green velveteen cloth on top was torn off, revealing a red cloth
beneath; that also was torn off, exposing a second red cloth; that
also was disposed of, revealing a third red cloth; that also was
removed and revealed an old brown newspaper dating back to
April 29,1890, from the extinct Times-Democrat.

The ladies’ aid purchased’ seventy-five new Lutheran Hymnals
for congregational use. This also was a progressive step forward
and a much-needed one. The old black hymnals, often coverless,
presented acute problems when the desired hymn was found
missing. :

An ushers’ staff has been formed; a choir has been reorganized;
a youth organization is in the formation, and attendance has in-
creased, with the missionary zeal of the members giving promise
of further growth. —

The School: The school lost one of its most faithful workers
this past year when Mr. Aaron Wiley, the principal, was taken
home to his heavenly Father. “Prof.” served: the school thirty-
five years, teaching hundreds of children in the One Thing Needful
for time and eternity. He had retired two months before his eyes
were closed in sleep. He taught in our schools a few months short
of forty-seven years.

Bulging from side to side and from top to bottom, the school,
reputedly one of the largest, houses. over 300 pupils under the
guidance and tutelage of four teachers: Mrs. B. Wiley, Miss Wilma
Lucas, Miss Frances McCants, and Miss Lois Horn. Truly we can
say, “They ,have been: faithful and consecrated workers in the
Lord’s kingdom.” They forestalled their salary increases until nec-
essary repairs could be made on the school. The congregation this
year took cognizance of the fact.and raised each teacher’s salary
from congregational funds., ‘The’ total now paid toward salaries is
$275 per month from the congregation's treasury.

The Sunday School: Approximately 298 pupils are enrolled in
the Sunday school, with attendance averaging between 160 and 202,
The staff has been increased from four to ten teachers. Current
teaching materials are used in their classes.’

During 1952, nine members were confirmed and fourteen
baptized. peas ah '

During 1953, two adults and eight children were confirmed.
Thirty-three were baptized into Christ.

During 1954, six adults and twenty-three children were con-
firmed. This appears to be one of the largest classes in Bethlehem’s
history. Twenty-four have ‘been baptized in the name of the Triune
God thus far this year. oes

During 1952, total amount raised for all purposes was $5,625.70.

During 1953, total amount.raised for all purposes was $6,512.31.

The Rev. August Burgdorf served as the first pastor of this
congregation, which was organized in the fall of 1888. After ten
years of faithful service his health failed him. He was succeeded
by the Rev. Kossmann, who served the congregation until August,
1906, when he accepted a call “up North.” Since August 18, 1907,
Pastor Kramer has been faithfully shepherding the flock and feed-
ing it with God’s Word. Joun E. ELLermann, Pastor