Kiron Baptist Church
History Collection
Kiron Baptist Church History
1908 - 40th Anniversary
1918 - 50th Anniversary
1928 - 60th Anniversary
1943 - 75th Anniversary
1926 Issue of "Monthly Messages"
1950 Article in Kiron Weekly News
1938 Article in Odebolt Chronicle
This is the story of the first church in the new settlement of Swedish immigrants. Upon its shoulders seemed to rest the mantle of leadership for carrying the flag of moral and spiritual influence in the community. Although they have experienced their share of troubled waters, it is somewhat refreshing to note that not only have they have prevailed and continue to do so even today but they received popular support from the community at large . They were the ones who mobilized their concern over the negative effects of alcoholism into keeping the town saloon-free from shortly after the beginning of the town to well into the late 1930's. They were the ones who were influential in promoting a valuable church and school partnership which kept the activities of both from competing with each other. They were the ones who recognized the value of the well read and educated citizen and to that end started a library which they made available to the public. And as years passed, they were the ones who cultivated religious harmony in the community.
In this collection are various articles collected by Miss Annette Anderson, grandpa William Clauson and grandma Annie Naslund Clauson, and mother Mabel Clauson Gustafson. We have the 1968 - 100th Anniversary writeup which will be included in the future. Keep watching this page for the 1993 - 125th Anniversary writeup which we will try to include with all its color pictures intact. Additional material whether text or photo (especially the older ones) to enhance the rich history of this organization is always welcome. (From an old newspaper clipping -- probably the Kiron News)
Beautiful Kiron Rejoices In Handsome New Church
Dedication and 40th Anniversary Services of Thanksgiving Last for Ten Days.
STORY OF THE CHURCH BUILDING RETOLD
Entire Community Participates in Pride over the Wonderful Accomplishments of these Earnest Workers Who Have Added This, Fine Edifice to Their Thriving City.
The past ten days have been most important ones for the Baptists. Events that long will be pleasantly remembered by them and which will go down in their church history and be read with interest by their succeeding generations have taken place. The first session commenced on Friday evening with a song service led by Rev. Gustave Nyquist of St. Paul, followed by an address of welcome by the pastor, Rev. A. Lagerquist. The baptistry was dedicated for service when the rite of baptism was administered to two persons. Rev. A. Noraberg of Gowrie gave an address. his subject being, "The Significance of Songs in our Religious Service," which was practically demonstrated at the close of his speech by five small girls arrayed in white dresses, who appeared on the platform and very beautifully sang two songs fol. lowed by the choir, which had especially been trained for this conference and event.
Saturday morning's session was devoted to listening to an address by Rev. L. Johanson of Sioux City. his theme being, "Reasonable Worship of God" and he brought the thought forth that it meant an entire service and devotion to God of a person's being. All he possesses should be brought in line to serve God and the result in such a service would result in joy and rich blessings in this present life and the unspeakable reward for eternity. Rev. Linder of Forest City followed him with an address on the subject, "The Young People and their training for Christ and the Church." In this afternoon session Rev. A. Lagerquist gave a very interesting and well prepared lecture on the subject. "The Church of God." At the close of this session Maurice Sjogren read a brief history of the Baptist church here during the past forty years which was followed by' short addresses from former pastors of the church, who were present, and a number of the elder members of the church, who testified to the wonderful work of an all wise hand which had led,, guided and blessed in the past years. Of the members who spoke were I. Michaelson. John Erickson, H. Hallander and Mrs. John Sandberg. Rev. J. A. Jader followed with a very interesting and Inspiring address in which be urged the church not only to look back and review its work but to push on for the future :and accomplish. greater things
The evening session was devoted to listening to a sermon by Rev. L. Johanson of Sioux City, who in his original and sincere method reminded the church of the great truth that God has done all things well. Sunday dawned with great expectancy and anticipation, which was to be the great day of the dedication festival. At the Sunday School service addresses were listened to by Chas. K. Meyers, and Rev. L. W. Linder of Forest City. Rev. J. A. Jader of Omaha occupied the forenoon hour by delivering a most able and inspiring sermon using as his text, Matt. 21:1-11. He is a good speaker and his address was among the best delivered (luring the conference bringing forth good thoughts and making practical application to his listeners.
The afternoon preaching which commenced at 2:30 was preceded by Rev. S. A. Johnanson of Arthur who devoted a short time in a warm exhortation. A song service followed,
led by Rev. Gustave Nyquist. Rev. E. Rosen preached on the subject of the congregation and the community's attitude towards the Lord's House. The speaker said that he took it fur granted that the church was the Lord's House and pictured the blessing the new church would be to its congregation. a place to which they could invite the people to come and worship and listen to the gospel. The new church be showed, in various ways was a credit to the town and entire locality and especially an honor to the Baptists. He cited to the various rooms in which the church work could be conducted in a practical way viz. the Sunday School, prayer, and preaching service, and the choir practice, and also the library and its influences for good. He eulogized the practical arrangements and conveniences. and up-to-date style of the building, which he stated was the results of modern architecture He voiced the fact that every church was designed not alone for its members to their good but for the welfare of the entire community and public. A solo, "Don't forget that Jesus loves you" was very ably rendered by P. C. Lawrence.
Rev. A. Lagerquist gave a short history of the building of the church from the time it first came up for consideration all through the preparation and erection of the same At the close of his remarks he read the report of the finance committee, which will be found in the notes of the conference. This address and report was of interest to many in his audience who had watched the progress of erecting the church. The sliding door of the baptistry was raised and the beautiful landscape painting on the rear wall was shown which Rev. Lagerquist stated was the artistic work of Rev. A. Nordberg of Gowrie Iowa. Rev. A. Lindholm, pastor of the church in Ida county which is a branch of this church in a few words congratulated the mother church upon its success, and saying the daughter church rejoiced together with her upon the occasion. Rev. LaReau of Denison the next speaker (who was present and assisted in the laying of the corner stone ceremonies last summer) complimented the Baptist people upon the completion of their new temple, which he said should be dedicated from basement to garret to the honor and glory of God. Rev. LaReau spoke in the evening and preached a most excellent sermon which was attentively listened to and will long be remembered by many. Rev. LeReau is a favorable speaker and has a very pleasing and effective delivery. To detail every meeting which continued during the entire week would take too much work and space. Every meeting was attended by a goodly number and especially the evening sessions when it was possible for many to attend who were unable to be present during the day
(From an old newspaper clipping -- probably the Kiron News)
KIRON PEOPLE PRAISE PASTOR.
UNDER HIS LEADERSHIP THE SWEDISH BAPTISTS OF KIRON DO WONDERS PASTOR THE SUPERINTENDENT.
Biographical Sketch of Stalwart Swedish
Pastor Whose Enthusiasm and Energy
lnspired Kiron People to Help.
Rev. A. Lagerquist was born in Eskelstuna, Sweden May 6, 1871. in a home that was deprived of much of this world's goods and his parents were unable to be given him more than a common school education. His mother was of German descent, her parents emigrated from Germany and located in Sweden during the reign of King Gustaf 111. His father engaged in the manufacturing of table cutlery. At the age of 12 years, he had to leave his home to go out and earn his own living and so was deprived of the influence of a home and the limited comforts of the same which means so much to a young boy of that age. From his early youth at different times God's Spirit strove with him to give his heart to God. This was no doubt the result of his mother's prayers and training in, the home and the influence of the Sunday School of which he became a member when at the age of four years old. In the year of 1888, Jan. 25th, he yielded to the voice of God and was converted and the following month was baptized and joined the Baptist church. He met with opposition from his parents, owing to this step he had taken, as they were strict members of the State church and devout observers of its doctrines. Very soon after his conversion he became a worker in the Sunday School and preached the word in neighboring towns. .
About a year later be emigrated to America, and landed in Chicago in May 1890 where he for sometime followed the carpenter trade, which he had learned under his Sunday School teacher's instructions in Sweden. He became a very active member of the Baptist church in Englewood, especially in the Sunday School and among the young people and was a very effective worker against the cursed liquor traffic which at different times brought on him the wrath of the saloon keepers, who threatened violence against him.
While in Sweden, as well as America he was urged by many enter the ministry, and when he felt God's calling he entered in that work. He entered the Morgan Park school Oct. 1893, where he received his training for the work to which he should devote his entire time. His first vacation from his school period was spent preaching to the Baptist congregation at Swede Bend. Iowa. The following year he accepted a call from a congregation at Austin III where his labor proved a blessing and inspiration and an uplift to the church., which had fallen into a depressed condition, In 1895 he accepted a call to work at Rock Island, where he labored for three years.
On May 6. 1897. he was united in marriage to Josephine Erickson. who was the oldest of five sisters, and we followed the carpenter trade, which the number. In 1899 he accepted a
Continued on page 2. (The continuation of this article was not available.)
(From an old newspaper clipping -- probably the Kiron News)
CHURCH ORGANIZED AUGUST 1868
Names of Early Pastors and Leaders Given.
How the Funds for the New Church Were Raised
In the very early days of this Swedish settlement a number. who had came from their fatherland where they had learned to serve and love their God, gathered to discuss their duty and the possibility of taking up religious work which they felt was an undisputed necessity for the maintenance of their spiritual life and to implant the Gospel into the minds and hearts of their children. The result of their desires and determination terminated into the organizing of the First Baptist church of Kiron August 16th. 1868, with a membership of seventeen, who were: N. Lindberg, C. P. Frodig, C. J. Star. A. Anderson, N. P. Erickson, James Anderson, W. Peterson, P. Carlson, J. Hagglund, Mr. Back. Mrs. Frodig, Mrs. Hagglund, Mr. and Mrs. John A. Erickson, Mrs. Louisa Duncan. I. Michaelson, H. Hallander. Of these seventeen, twelve have ceased their labor in this world and passed on into the land from whence no man returns, nine of this number having died in Kiron, one in Dakota and two in Nebraska. Of the five living pioneer members, three live in the town of Kiron, Mr. and Mrs. John A. Erickson and Mrs. Louisa Duncan, Mr.I. Michaelson, resides on the old homestead one mile south of town, and H. Hallander resides five miles north of town in Ida county.
The first meetings prior to the organizing of the church were held in the dugouts, where the new settlers gathered to worship and praise their God for his kindness and goodness and to listen to the preaching of the word by H. Hallander. Later when school houses were built they gathered in these. for religious services. Some of our pioneers will especially remember the C. J. Star school house where they met so many times. C. P. Frodig was chosen leader when the church was first organized and was pastor up to January 1870, when A. Norelius was called to succeed him. He had charge of the work from that year up to December (missing parts)
was donated to the church by N. Anderson. In the year of 1888 the building was partly remodeled and enlarged to the exact likeness of the cut, which we present the Review readers this week. It will recognized by many all over the county, who have passed along the road by the church property which for many years was on the main road between Denison and Odebolt. The remodeling work done in 1888 cost $1.100. The first parsonage' was erected in 1877 at a cost of $270.
When the railroad was built and New Kiron sprung up the Baptists decided to move the church into town. This was done in the year 1899. The old parsonage was not moved but sold to its present occupant and owner, P. M. Sjogren, for the sum of $550, including the land. A new parsonage was built in Kiron the same (missing parts)
the committee somewhat but they finally surmounted the difficulty by deciding to undertake the project themselves and to utilize their own skill and labor. This has resulted in the erection of the sightly and beautiful building, in as able a way, as could have been done by expert contractors. Rev. A. Lagerquist superintended the work with Joseph Engberg as foreman. Work was given to every available man in town who wanted work. The work was conducted in a pleasant and cheerful manner and during the entire period was free from controversy or unpleasantness. The excavating and considerable other work was done free by members of the church and others. The energetic and capable work of the pastor was graciously done and the church is indebted to him for his faithful and burdensome labor in (missing parts)
and to invite the public and in which they can carry on their church work in a practical way. The practical arrangements and conveniences and up-to-date style of the building is the result of modern architecture.
(From a 1918 Kiron, Odebolt or Denison newspaper clipping)
50TH BIRTHDAY KIRON CHURCH
The Swedish Baptist Church of Kiron Is Celebrating its Fiftieth Anniversary This Week.
FIRST SERVICES IN SOD HOUSES
Now Has a Church Membership of 130 and a Sabbath School With Membership of 225
The Swedish Baptist church of Kiron celebrated its fiftieth anniversary last week with a series of meetings lasting all week and continuing this week. The anniversary proper was held on Sunday the 25th, when a brief history of the church was read and personal testimonies given by charter members yet living and present at the occasion. These were Ingemar Michaelson, John A. Erickson, Mrs. Nils Peter Erickson(Sara Clausdotter) and Mrs. Duncan(Holmberg). The church was organized Aug. 16, 1868 with eighteen members. Otter Creek, as this community was then called, was just colonized and Swedish families came from Swede Bend, Iowa; from Minnesota; and from Sweden, bought farms and built up the country. At first they took shelter in sod houses until they could provide better accommodations. More members were soon added to the church so that at the end of 1868 there were 31 and the next year 21 more were added. At first they met for worship in the different homes but in the fall of 1869 a school house was built and the church members worshipped there until 1876 when the first church was built. In 1870 the membership went up to 81, a wonderful increase indeed. Carl Peter Frodig served at first as their leader, but in March 1870, Andrew Norelius became their pastor and served until the close of 1873. At that time difficulties and contentions began to trouble the church until they were nearly disorganized and only 36 members remained. Others soon came back, however, until they numbered 65. In the summer of 1876 they built their first church at a cost of $1800.
The same year Rev. N. Hayland came and a great revival was started so that 77 were baptized and joined the church and the membership rose to 160. Then John Ring became their pastor and served until 1880. At that time other doctrines were preached in the community and caused trouble in the church, so that the membership was again reduced to 36. After that the work gradually developed again under the leadership of L. J. Ahlstrom, E. O. Olson, A. P. Hanson, A. G. Lagerquist and A. A. Anderson. Their present pastor is N. N. Morton. When the railway was built and the town of Kiron was started, the church was moved to town in 1900 and the second parsonage was built, both at a cost of $2000. The first parsonage had been built in 1877 and was sold for $550. In 1906 this second parsonage was sold for $510 and a new one erected for $2000. In 1908 the present church edifice was erected at a cost of $10,765, and was dedicated in connection with the fortieth anniversary.
Its present membership is 130. A strong Sunday school is maintained with about 225 members. The B. Y. P. U. (Baptist Young Peoples Union) numbers about 36. The 'What I Can' is a missionary organization belonging to the World Wide Guild. The Ladies Aid are doing missionary and philanthropic work. Thus the church has had its ups and downs in its first fifty years, but is at present in good working condition. Rev. L. J. Ahlstrom, a former pastor of the church, preached the anniversary sermon Sunday morning and Rev. Axel Wester, of Gowrie, preached in the evening. Besides these two, the following ministers from Iowa were in attendance: A. G. Lagerquist, Robert Larson, G. Sword, J. L. Mahn, J. A.Nordstrom. These brethren, took turns preaching during the week besides taking part in the afternoon meetings. In the forenoons the ministers had their own sessions when the following subjects were discussed: "The Great Awakening," "What Can We Learn from Prominent Preacher's Preparation ?" "Pastoral Service in the Promotion of the Work," "How Do We Stand in Relation to 2 Tim. 2: 15?" Last Sunday large audiences gathered to listen to sermons by Robert Larson in the morning and C. A. Lagerstrom from Topeka, Kansas. This week preaching services will be held every night by Robert Larson, C. A Lagerstrom, A. Wester and A. G . Lagerquist.
(From a church booklet printed in 1928)
Sixty Years 1868 - 1928
Swedish Baptist Church
Kiron, Iowa
News Print, Kiron, Iowa
Charter Members
A. Anderson
James Anderson
Lena Maria Beck
Peter Carlson
Nils Peter Erickson
Sara S. Erickson
John A. Erickson
Carl Peter Frodig
Sara S. Frodig
John Hagglund
Anna Hagglund
Hans Hallander
Hedda L. Holmberg
Nels Lindberg
Ingemar Michaelson
Carolina Nelson
Waldemar Peterson
C. J. Star
A SHORT REVIEW OF SIXTY YEARS
The Kiron church had its beginning with the Otter Creek settlement itself. One may well say, then, that it has grown with the community and has been a part of it.
By the summer of 1868, so many families of Baptist principle had immigrated, and enjoyed Christian fellowship together, that on August 16, 1868. they banded themselves together in a Baptist church. The original roll of members may be seen on Page 1. Carl Peter Frodig was elected chairman, Nils Lindberg, deacon, and Charles J. Star, secretary. By the close of 1868, the membership had risen to 31.
The church continued to meet in dug-outs and in other places which were opened to them until in 1869 when a school house was built and opened for their use. This served as a meeting place until 1876, when a church building was erected at a cost of $1800.
Andrew Norelius served the church as superintendent from 1870 until 1873, and Frodig again served from 1874 until New Years, 1877. At that time, the church had grown to membership of 160 largely due to the revival under N. Hayland in 1876. At that time Frodig suggested that a full time pastor be called to take care of the work.
John Ring took up the work in March 1877, and continued till the close of April 1880. During 1877, the church erected its first parsonage at a cost of $270.
L. J. Ahlstrom took over the work in October 1881, and remained until February 1886. Mikaelson and Frodig were elected superintendents of the work until a pastor could be procured. In the fall of 1886, Betsy Anderson conducted meetings which proved to be an uplift for the church.
In February, 1887, Erick O. Olson took up the work. The first church was rebuilt at a cost of $1100. During the fall of 1890, a deep revival arose under the leadership of Betsy Anderson. Forty-one members were added by baptism. Olson's rich ministry closed in 1895. During his time, the church increased in membership by forty members, bringing the total to 116. Up to that time the membership had fluctuated from large to small through various discouragements and misunderstandings.
Chader followed Olson, and stayed until 1897. In August of that year, A. P. Hanson began his work. The railroad having determined the location of the town, it was thought wise to move the church into town. This was done in 1899. A parsonage was also built in, town, and the two projects together cost $2000. There was an increase of about 26 members during this ministry.
John Johanson served the church two months, and A. Berglund served the next eight months, after which G. Nyquist took up the work. During this time the Prayer Conference was instituted, and the traditional meeting has been followed faithfully through the years. Brother Nyquist served until April 1906, when student A. E. Lysell took up the work for the summer.
During the summer of 1906, the present parsonage was erected at a cost of $2001.13. J. N. Soderstrom took up the work in December, and remained until September 1907.
October 1, 1907, A. G. Lagerquist took up the work of the church continuing until December 1, 1910. During his pastorate the splendid church building was erected.
January 1, 1911, Anton A. Anderson began his work which continued until April 1, 1914. Meetings under the leadership of P. C. Nelson, and of V. E. Hedberg resulted in substantial gains. John Selander supplied the church during the summer of 1914. Rev. N. N. Morton took up the work Nov. 1, 1914, and remained until the summer of 1919.
Rev. C. I. Peterson was pastor from December 1919 until the spring of 1925. Revival meetings under the leadership of Stucker. Nygren, and Dahlquist, again resulted in gains for the work. At the close of this pastorate, Rev. E. J. Nordlander who was residing in Kiron at this time, was called as temporary pastor. Later in the summer, he accepted a call to be permanent pastor. He remained in the work until April 1927.
Reuben E. Nelson was called to take up the work for the summer, and in the fall, he accepted the call to become permanent pastor for a year. September 1, 1928, the present pastor, Gordon Carlson took up the work.
Such a short history can contain only the skeleton of events. The work of pastors, the pioneers and the members is too great to be compressed into the limits of a few words. Upon this framework you may build your own beautiful structure of work, prayer, souls won, comfort given. These can be remembered and meditated upon better than they can be described.
STORY OF THE NEW CHURCH
At the annual business meeting of the church, Jan. 1, 1908, the question was raised concerning the building of a new church. A decision was made that if $7000 could be raised, the work would be undertaken. Rev. Lagerquist began the task of securing pledges conditional upon the pledging of the whole sum. The task seemed stupendous, but before long the whole sum was pledged, members, business men, and other friends having helped shoulder the load. March 1, a building committee was appointed composed of Rev. A. G. Lagerquist, Peter Johnston, John Erickson, Carl Erick Engberg, Nels Larson, Alfred Clausen, and Charles S. Johnson. They began work immediately, and plans were sent to contractors asking their bids. The lowest bid was $14000. Since such a burden could not be undertaken, the brethren decided to build the church themselves, utilizing labor donated by men in the church. Rev. Lagerquist superintendended the work, and Joseph Engberg was foreman. Work began as soon as possible. After a short prayer service in the old structure, May 4, it was torn down under the supervision of Carl Erick Engberg. Ben N. Benson supervised the excavation work. The whole membership worked faithfully, and it was a happy group of men who gathered daily for the task of building a new church home. The church was ready for the festive ten-day dedication service held in connection with the Fortieth Anniversary early in December. Thus within the space of one year, the decision to build and the building itself were both accomplished. The total cost was $10,765.54.
The building today stands as a monument to the foresight of Rev. Lagerquist and the church. Few country communities have buildings to equal it, and few city churches built twenty years ago can compare with it in modern arrangement and convenience. God surely led even in this, and above all, the structure stands as a place of worship and as a monument to the faith of men in Him who is the corner stone and head of the Church.
THE SUNDAY SCHOOL
The Sunday School was the first organization in the Church, and it was organized two years after the Church was started, making it Fifty-eight years ago now. It seems as if it did not continue each year after it started as mention is made in some records that it started at different times in later years. It is very likely though that it has existed continuously for the past fifty years. The Swedish language was used in its early history. Some classes soon adopted the English and gradually other classes began using the English language. Today only two classes use the Swedish. The International lessons were used in the early years by all classes but of later years the younger children use the graded lessons.
One of the outstanding faithful workers is Wm. Lindberg, who has served in some way for the past forty years. He now serves as Superintendent and has so served for about twenty years. Alvin Winquist as Secretary and Treasurer has about fourteen years service to his credit. The enrollment is now 264, teachers and officers 21. A Cradle Roll and Home Department is also maintained.
DORCAS SOCIETY
The Dorcas Society was organized in 1871, though the present name was not adopted until 1913. The charter members were Mrs. C. P. Frodig, Mrs. Peter Nelson and Mrs. Carolina Swanson. They began by buying material with which to make clothing for poor and needy people. Meetings were held twice a month, using the greater part of the day for sewing and Bible study. Among those who have served faithfully for many years can be mentioned C. P. Frodig, who served as Secretary and Treasurer for twenty-three years, and Alf. J. Clauson, who succeeded him, served for twenty-two years. Others are Emily Swanson, Mrs. I. Michaelson, Mrs. Nels Winquist, Mrs. E. P. Sievers, Mrs. Johanna Engberg, Nellie Winquist and Mrs. C. M. Olson.
Sales of the finished articles were held for some years, but later the articles made were sent to Childrens and Old Peoples homes. Space does not permit to mention the many different objects to which the Society has contributed, but the total amount of donations they have made is $5198.50, since its organization.
THE BAPTIST YOUNG PEOPLE'S SOCIETY
The B. Y. P. U. Society was organized in 1889, with P. W. Weberg as President, Emily Swanson as Secretary and Alfred J. Clauson as Treasurer. There were eighteen Christian young people as the first members. The Society met on a specified evening every week unless hindered by bad weather. The meetings were led by some member of the Society, who also gave an introductory talk on the topic assigned for the meeting. Today the Society follows the group plan, and this has been a very helpful plan in getting the greater number of members to take some part in the meetings at some time. There are at present sixty-seven members who make up the Society. During the summer months the first half hour of the Sunday Evening services has been in charge of the Society, but during the winter months the meetings are held in the basement using the full hour. The Society has control of the Library in that it elects the members of the Library Board. The members of the Society also contribute annually one dollar each toward the support of the Library.
WHAT I CAN
The What I Can Society was organized February 1st 1901, with Miss N. Florence Johnson as President, Lillian F. Engberg, VicePresident, and Alice Sandberg, Secretary-Treasurer. The first meeting was held in the early days of our town, when a few women and girls gathered to hear Miss Dora Eaton, then of Emerson, Iowa. Because of her deep consecration to the missionary cause, her address and desire to organize a Society in this place led to an organization that day. Since that time, the Society has made missionary studies of all mission fields in the world, of its own denomination. Looking at the giving part of the Society, of the $2746.51 that has been received through voluntary offerings, $2582.92 has been given to the Women's American Foreign and Women's American Home Mission Societies. As one looks back over these twenty-seven years of work, the organization feels truly inspired over the progress that has 'been made. Certainly much credit is due Miss N. Florence Johnson, who has labored during all these years, giving of her time and self for the interest of the work; also to Mrs. E. J. Nordlander, who for twenty-five years served as Secretary-Treasurer.
THE PRAYER CONFERENCE
The Prayer Conference had its beginning in December, 1905, at the call of Rev. G. Nyquist who was pastor at that time. Rev. J. W. Hjertstrom was called to be the principal speaker and the meetings proved to be of such great blessing and help that it was decided to make the Conference an annual event to be held in the church, which has been done. In the year 1908, a ten day service was held, combining the Prayer Conference, Dedication of the new Church and the Fortieth Anniversary. This year, 1928, the Prayer Conference, the Sixtieth Anniversary and the Ordination of our present pastor, Gordon Carlson, are combined into one. Many of the prominent men of our denomination have attended these meetings and have been real channels of blessing with their gospel messages. Souls have been saved and added to the Church, and showers of blessing have been manifest.
B. Y. P. U. PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Library came into existence largely as the result of the vision and efforts of Miss Alice Sandberg, (now Mrs. E. J. Nordlander) and Rev. A. G. Lagerquist. From its beginning, it has been under the supervision of the B. Y. P. U., a committee of which appointed the first Library Board of nine members, on Nov. 22, 1908. The Library was first opened to the public the week of December 6-13, 1908. At the end of the first year there were 288 catalogued volumes. Today there are 1419, and about 30 periodicals are coming regularly to the reading tables. The circulation of books and periodicals for the year ending March 31st, 1928, was 4424. The church furnishes rooms, light and fuel. Other expenses are met by fines, sale of borrowers' cards. annual B. Y. P. U. membership fees, donations from some of the Sunday School classes, clubs and individuals. Miss Alice Sandberg served as Librarian from the beginning, continuing for about thirteen years, after which N. Florence Johnson has served.
THE CHOIR
The Choir has existed for the past forty years or more, but was not organized until April 24th, 1903. It has proved to be one of the inspiring organizations of the Church. During special meetings held by the Church the Choir has been of great value in helping bring the gospel to the people through song. At times the Choir has met in the different homes of the members for the rehearsal, but of late years the rehearsal has been held in the church, after the mid- week prayer and praise service. The membership numbers twenty-seven at present, only four of the present members being charter members of the organization. They are: Alf. J. Clauson, J. A. Engberg, Lillian F. Engberg and S. M. Sjogren. The aim of the Choir is to use the talents in the Church to help bring the story of the gospel through song and to help make inspiring services.
THE PIONEERS
A-marching down the years they go,
The sturdy pioneers,
They tread the prairie grasses down
And water it with tears.
We stand today with heads bowed down,
We place on Memory's head a crown.
A-marching down the years they go,
Forgetting not their God,
Their hearts commune with Him on high,
Their hands break up the sod.
So we their children learn to know,
The joy of heaven here below.
A-marching down the years they go,
For home a dug-out drear,
But in their mind a mansion fair
They see with vision clear,
Eternal Hope leads them afar,
'Tis He, the Bright and Morning Star.
A-marching down the years we go,
The sons of pioneers,
And may our harvest be as their's
Though sown, perhaps, in tears.
When gathered after set of sun,
We hear, "O Pioneer, well-done!"
R. E. N.
(From a booklet printed by the church in 1943.)
75th Anniversary History of the
First Baptist Church of Kiron, Iowa
by S. Bruce Fleming
Preface
In looking back over the seventy-five-year history of the First Baptist Church of Kiron, Iowa, one can easily discern the guidance of God. Human thought cannot reveal the depth and breath of the work that has been done. It is therefore the desire of the writer to be brief and yet historical; to be inclusive and yet not exhaustive.
A great work has been accomplished. The truth of all the sacrifices and joys will not be known until the "mists have rolled away."
"Not now, but in the coming years,
It may be in that better land,
We'll read the meaning of our tears,
And there, sometime, we'll understand.
"We'll catch the broken thread again,
And finish what we here began;
Heav'n will the mysteries explain,
And then, ah, then, we'll understand."
Maxwell N. Cornelius
Oh, the goodness of God to. look down upon man with an everlasting compassion. A compassion that draws the hearts of men to the great cause and source of life - the heart of God.
If God has no care for the concerns of this lower world, if He acts independently of our conduct and desires as created beings, if He is not graciously disposed to accept the fervent prayers of men: then we may as well do, homage to the storms, then we do better to cast our prayers before the four winds of the earth. But ah, our God is a personal God and glory reknown be to Him, He hears the cries of infants raised from hearts of need. Clouds and darkness may befall us, but we know that He, who is the Eternal Son, is above the clouds and will sooner or later shine upon us.
Let us thank God for victories won, on the one hand, but on the other let us enlarge our interests, and increase our efforts in God's Kingdom that souls may be brought into salvation through Christ. We feel deeply that the hour has come to reach out and work while it is day, for the night soon cometh when no man can work.
We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints, for the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel; which is come unto you, as it is in all the world; and bringeth forth fruit, as it doth also in you, since the day ye heard of it, and knew the grace of God in truth." (Col. 1:3-6)
S. Bruce Fleming
75th Anniversary History Book
CHAPTER I
The Early Background of the People
"For who are they that despise the day of small things?" Zechariah 4:10.
"And there arose on that day a great persecution against the Church and they were scattered abroad." Acts 8:1. And He said to them, "Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature" "He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved, but he that believeth not shall be dammed." In the late sixties of the nineteenth century, immigrants, mostly young and sturdy men and women, came to America by the thousands. Wave after wave of immigrants flowed into "the land of the free and the home of the brave." These came especially from Northern Europe, Scandinavia, including Finland.
The greatest number of these people came from rural sections in their home country to seek wider and better opportunities for a happier livelihood in the New World, free from religious persecution.
The Swedish people were among the early colonizers of Iowa and it is now a century (1845) since the first twenty-five left Illinois in a wheelboat for Iowa.
Several reasons may be offered for the great waves of immigrants that came into. America from Sweden at this time. However, the occasion for the coming of the settlers to Iowa was to escape the harsh and rude treatment of the State Church in Sweden. Democracy and religious freedom were unknown in Sweden in the seventeenth and the eighteenth centuries. To differ from the articles of belief in the State Church of Sweden was not only frowned upon, but it was a legal offense. An understanding of this situation must be insisted upon for only with such comprehension can one understand the dramatic and the romantic history of the community.
The first settlers that came to Otter Creek valley during the years of 1867-69 were, a majority of them, separated from the State Church in Sweden. During the early years of 1850-1860 great revivals swept throughout the land of Sweden. Men and women turned to the printed Word of God and studied for themselves the Scriptures. Thousands upon thousands concluded in their studies that the Church of Jesus Christ should consist of those who had repented of their sins, had been regenerated through personal faith in Christ as Savior.
They further concluded that it was the will of God that all members of the Church should be received through New Testament baptism. It was obvious that the State Church, as it existed in those days, was not living up to the practice, therefore, a great wave of dissenters arose to declare the Word of God as it was given through inspiration of the Holy Spirit.
There arose a great persecution similar to the account in the Book of Acts concerning the Church at Jerusalem. Many were arrested and lodged in jail and liable to fine. During their imprisonments they were fed on a water and bread diet for twenty one days.
Hundreds of preachers traveled the country preaching this one dogma, namely, that Christianity was more then ritualism, more than social rank - Christianity was spirit and was life.
Many were arrested and thrown into dirty prisons, to wallow in the filth that others had left behind them. The worthy followers of the Lamb went "through the valley of the shadow of death" with their Lord, while still behind the gray stone walls for preaching "the unsearchable riches of Christ Jesus in glory". Yes, such was the charge against the meek preachers. Arrested, imprisoned, and hounded to death for preaching - reaching the way of the more abundant life in Christ Jesus Many were the teachings that caused a great storm of upheaval, the fury of which, finally whipped the persecuted out of the land they loved. After being molested for many years thousands of the inhabitants, who had heard of America - the land with religious liberty - left their loved homes and set sail for their new homes. Thus they joined the great ranks of Puritans, Quakers, and Baptists, harrassed worshippers of God, who from time to time found it necessary to seek a place of safety where they had the privilege to worship God according to the command of their own conscience.
From this group who fled their country to find new homes, several settled in Otter Creek valley. During the year 1867 a group of men, including C. J. Star, N. F. Rodin and C. P. Frodig, slowly made their way in covered wagons drawn by ox teams from Swedebend, Webster County, Iowa, to Onawa. It was the intention of the group to settle there; however, the land did not suit them so they moved on under the direction of J. W. Denison - into the Otter Creek valley which was later settled and called Kiron, of Crawford County, Iowa.
During the month of September several more families settled in the community. The group included H. Hallander, A. Anderson, Peter Carlson, James Anderson, Waldemar Peterson, P. Peterson, Elias Monson, N. P. Erickson, J. Hoaglund, Peter Nelson, D. L. Johnson, Peter Star, John Sparfelt, Peter Weberg, Mrs. Beek, and Carolina Nelson.
Having heard favorable reports of the new Swedish settlement, several additional families made their way the following spring, 1868, to the community. Those who came from Swedebend were John Anderson, Fred Beek, C. F. Clauson, Lovisa Duncan, John A. Erickson, N. Lindberg, I. Michaelson, J. Hendrickson, Nels Olson and Gust Peterson.
After overcoming the dangers of travel, of cold, of flood, and of disease, the community settled down to make a home for themselves out of the vast rolling prairies of virgin soil. The following paragraph is quoted from an account of C. J. Johnson. As one who experienced the early trials, Mr. Johnson is well qualified to give an eye-witness observation.
"Houses to live in were nearly all dug out of a side hill, one end and the two sides were under the ground, and one end or gable was the only part of the house that was visible; a stovepipe sticking out of the ground also. The door was generally built in the middle of the end of the house and two windows, one on each side of the door. Some of the houses only had one window. This made a passage from the outside up to the door about three feet wide and six or eight feet in length, according to the slope. As the wall was nearly level the only thing of woodwork was long poles in the middle with a fork in the upper end and a large long log laid up on top to form the peak of the roof. On the sides were posts set in the ground and a pole laid on the top for a wall plate. The houses were about twelve or fourteen feet each way. For rafters there were poles or split rails laid not far apart and long hay laid on it and the finishing touch was dirt. We had plenty of the dirt, but it did not keep the rain out very well. It rained very often some years and it was nothing unusual to get out of bed at night and find a place where it was dry. Our experience was right under the peak of the roof to line up, eight or ten of us, in the night. The clay floor was very soft to walk on while wet. This was not very pleasant, and I wonder how our young generation should like such an experience. But there are many things to learn in pioneer life and some things are quite annoying."
These pioneers were made of piety, honesty of thought, strength of courage, and determinateness of spiritual conviction. At last they were in the land that offered them opportunity. The task of the pioneer was to open the wilderness and prepare the way for the generations to come. His lot was privation and hard work. Men of this character have builded to make the community what it is today. Their foresight, their integrity, their faith in God and in man have given to posterity a rich heritage.
Herbert Hoover, former president of the United States of America, as quoted by Walter Dexter in his book, "Herbert Hoover and American Individualism," says: "I am proud to have been born in Iowa. Iowa was settled by the adventurous, by the courageous, who fought their way across the ever-extending frontier; they have builded here in so short a period as seventy-five years a state with the least poverty, the highest average intelligence, the most generous education, which ever blessed a single commonwealth."
CHAPTER II
Early Work and Organization of the Church "Upon this rock I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." Matth 16:8. "Christ is the head of the church and he is the Saviour of the body." Ephesians 5:2A. In the spring of 1868 there were a large number of immigrants in the community. Among the group there were several Baptist families. These families had fled persecution and were now making their homes in Freedom. Others among the group were of evangelical convictions. Accustomed to services on the Lord's day it became apparent that something must be done to provide an expression for their religious feelings. The immigrants found themselves in a community without a church, without a preacher. To these who had fled from religious regimentation this presented a vital problem.
The various Protestant denominations from the northern countries had in America well organized churches and missions among their own groups. However, such was not the case among the immigrants in Otter Creek Valley. There were no churches and no missions among them. They were thereupon left without any opportunity to hear the gospel of Christ.
From surface reasoning one might easily conclude that in spite of the closed doors, there was no particular reason from alarm. However, upon further investigation it is worthy to note that to these hardy immigrant people the situation was surprisingly alarming. They had fought nobly for religious freedom in their homeland. They had suffered greatly in behalf of their convictions. They had lived faithfully in consecration to the Holy Spirit. And now they were completely out of reach from those who sought to crush evangelical faiths; out of reach from those who sought to force them into one limited mold of thinking and interpretation. These pioneers stood on the soil which was the birth place of religious freedom and liberty of conscience.
The early months of the settlement found the settlers meeting in the dugouts for their services. Since so large a number of baptized believers had gathered themselves together, the need was felt for the organization of a Baptist Church. Since this call was felt within the first year of the settlement it becomes apparent that the pioneers considered the spiritual needs of the community as vital and foremost. Therefore, on August 16, 1868, a group met in the home of C. P. Frodig for the purpose of organizing. Brother Nels Lindberg was appointed temporary chairman and C. J. Star, secretary pro tem. The following persons gave testimony of their Christian faith and experience, adopted the Baptist Confession of Faith as presented by A. Wiberg, and accordingly formed themselves into a Swedish Baptist Church: A. Anderson, James Anderson, Mrs. Lena Maria Back, P. Carlson, N. P. Erickson, Sara S. Erickson, J. A. Erickson, C. P. Frodig, Mrs. Sara S. Frodig, J. Hagglund, H. Hallander, Hedda L. Holmberg, Nels Lindberg, Ingemar Michaelson, Carolina Nelson, Waldemar Peterson, and C. J. Star. Thus these eighteen formed the charter members of the Baptist Church of Kiron.
Brother C. P. Frodig was elected to the position of pastor-chairman. A better leader could not have been chosen, for Mr. Frodig was well tried as a Christian. His noble character was above reproach, his scholarly presentation of God's Word revealed him to be a man who had "studied to shew himself approved of God, a workman which needeth not to be ashamed." Mr. I. Michaelson also assisted the pastor in the detailed work of the congregation. His winsome manners and sincerity will long be remembered by those who knew him.
The third member of the trio upon whose shoulders the responsibility of breaking the bread of life rested was, Mr. H. Hallander. He was perhaps the best orator among the group. It is said by those who heard him that his voice carried well to all those who gathered at the services.
The first deacon to be appointed was Nels Lindberg. He, too, had left Sweden because of persecution and now when an opportunity of service was opened to him he gladly accepted with gratitude to God for strength and guidance.
Brother C. J. Star was elected to secretary, which position he carried on admirably. His keen analysis of the need, wise judgment of the problems, proved to be a great asset among the members of the newly formed church.
Under the leadership of such consecrated men the work among the Baptists was destined to growth and success. The leaders were not always well schooled men, or men whose tongues flowed with silver oratory, and yet with their hearts gripped by a passion for the salvation of their kindred peoples, they preached with results that are hard to equal in any era.
The church was not just a serious gesture at organization, but rather it had a strong group of eighteen members, faithful members. The pastor of the church continued with his straight-forward preaching and this with no apologies attached. Naturally, he must meet the inevitable harassing of the enemies of Christ, but nevertheless, his flint-like character kept him enthusiastic during these "nursery days".
This great historic meeting on August 16, 1868, was but the beginning of bigger and better things which were to follow. God's favor upon the group was obvious for within a few weeks time nine more were added to the fellowship of the church. These were days of great joy. In their simplicity God honored their labors. At the close of the year, 1868, four more were received into the church, bringing the total to thirty-one members. This brought a great deal of encouragement to the hearts of the settlers. Now they were assured that it was God's will that they leave their homes in Sweden and come to the land of liberty. Thus at the end of the first half year the church had made an impression upon the community which was never to be minimized; the effect was lasting, yea, eternal.
The church since its organization has kept its regular services, first in the humble homes of its members and later, when a school house was erected in the late summer of 1869, met in the new building.
At the business meeting conducted on the first of the new year, 1870, it was reported an increase of nineteen. The totaled membership recorded was fifty two.
Many of the services conducted in the early years at the school house were of an informal nature. Great crowds would gather to hear the several pastors preach. Their messages were doctrinal and brought conviction into the hearts of men and women. Though most of the leaders had been banished from their homeland by the authority of the State Church. they showed an unusual amount of love to any who were not in agreement with their methods of teaching. They met regularly, in spite of all weather conditions, to study the Word (II Timothy 2:15), to pray to their God (I Thessalonians 5:17), and to sing hymns of gladness and praise unto God the Father (Colossians 3:6).
The following year was again to see the benediction of God upon the church. Great throngs gathered to hear the Gospel. People met everywhere in small groups to pray unto God for the conviction of sin in the hearts of men. Often late into the night they were anxiously bent on their study in the Word of God. Their earnest search for truth brought about firm convictions which destroyed the common belief that all people were Christian if they were members of the church. They emphasized the necessity of the new birth (John 3:3), and defied any to challenge their well-grounded convictions.
The conclusion of the year 1870 showed another increase of twenty-nine. Twelve were admitted by letter and seventeen were baptized. Thus the membership in two and one-half years' work had risen to eighty-one.
The Rev. A. Norelius came to Iowa in March, 1870, and was asked to assume the leadership of the church. There was unity among the members of the church, each one serving the Lord in the beauty of holiness, until a few families moved in with the intention of disturbing the peace of the church. This they were somewhat successful in doing, for several members left the church and joined the trouble-making faction. The pastor persisted in his preaching and the Lord crowned the endeavors with glory and honor, in spite of the difficulties. Mr. Norelius concluded his ministry in the year 1873.
Brother C. P. Frodig was again asked to assume the leadership of the church, which had now through internal troubles diminished to the membership of sixty-five. In spite of these discouragements the pioneer preacher held true to the Confession of Faith as adopted upon the day of organization.
Just about this time a youthful evangelist by the name of N. Hayland visited the community. He arrived the latter part of 1875 and continued his Spirit-filled meetings through April of the following year. A revival of such a nature and such scope had never visited Kiron. Hayland was a brilliant speaker, a good singer, and played music well. Above all this, the youthful evangelist was anointed with the power of God.
Large throngs pressed to hear this gifted preacher. Hayland was the first Baptist preacher to graduate from Bethel Seminary. The soul-bathed preaching of Hayland reached deep into the hearts of the people. They realized from the onset that these messages were different from what they had been listening to for many years-different, and yet they were flavored with a power and simplicity which gripped their hearts. It was the desire for an inward spiritual life rather than the non-essential externals that promoted this revival with race-horse speed. The revival swept rapidly through the community.
Upon completion of an artful sermon, the evangelist would sing a number of well chosen hymns. He, like Rachel Winslow of Charles M. Sheldon's "In His Steps," would melt the brutal, coarse hearts of the people into hearts which were hushed and reverent, hearts which "lay like some wild beast at his feet and he sang it into harmlessness." When the beautiful strains of the voice sounded away the invitation to accept Christ was offered, women came forward weeping for gladness; burly men arose peering through eyes blurred, and through salted tears which flowed uninterruptingly down their worn cheeks; boys who previously had never thought a serious thought, now found it hard to swallow, for the lump which choked in their throats. God had brought to pass great miracles through the preaching.
As a direct result of this spiritual awakening a day of confession and baptism was set aside. Therefore, on March 8, 1876, great throngs walked several miles to the Boyer river. As they marched one could hear the happy voices singing:
"On Jordan's stormy banks I stand
And cast a wistful eye
Unto that happy Canaan's land,
Where my possessions lie."
Fifty candidates confessed their faith in Christ and were baptized after the fashion of the New Testament by C. P. Frodig. A few days later twenty more came and asked to be received into the church. Therefore, again the group went singing toward the waters of the Boyer. Blessed happy days of God's revelation to men.
At the conclusion of the year 1876 there were one hundred and sixty members to the church. The church was in a most happy state of affairs. The doctrinal issues which had caused internal troubles a few years ago were all straightened out to the glory of God.
During this great year of revival it was decided by the church to build an edifice wherein the congregation could meet to worship. The school house which had been used for several years was not always conducive to reverent worship. Construction of the building was begun in the early spring and all was ready for occupation and dedication by the first of June.
A site for the building had been promised by A. Anderson; however, he had died in the meantime Therefore Mrs. Anderson, his widow, was approached on the subject. Mrs. Anderson was happy to conform to the wish of her husband and therefore donated two acres of land to be used as church property. The land was located one mile south of Old Kiron. The lumber was purchased through a Denison concern and the contract for building was let to Anthon Sather and C. J. Johnson.
The building of the church was a happy experience. All contributed willingly of both time and money. One could go on to point out individual deeds of love and sacrifice during this period, but perhaps these pioneers would feel insulted, for they were not accustomed to do things for mention among men. Upon completion the building measured twenty-eight feet by forty-five feet. The cost of the building was eighteen hundred dollars in material.
Utmost cooperation was rendered by all. The work was completed and on June 22-24 the annual meeting of the Western Iowa and Eastern Nebraska Conference met in the new building. A day of great rejoicing and inspiration.
The church was quaint and simple, but all was built to glorify God. The power of God unto salvation was demonstrated time and time again within the little chapel as sinners cried out, "God be merciful unto me a sinner."
A very interesting phrase is recorded in the majority of writings during this period. It is worth our note to read it for it well characterizes this fruitful period. The statement then, "The fire is lit and cannot be put out but spreads the more and more."
Certainly in light of the history during this period, no words can sum up the great crusade which the people were bringing against sin and spiritual deadness.
The annual business meeting was held in January, 1877. Pastor C. P. Frodig stood to the floor and suggested that in light of the recent growth of the church he felt it the need of the group to call a full-time ordained Baptist minister. After assuring Brother Frodig of their satisfaction in his leadership, the church decided to call a pastor. It was clear to the church that they had now arrived at the place under the leadership of God where they ought to assume the responsibilities in the calling of a pastor.
The proceedings of this meeting are given by L. J. Ahlstrom in his writing: "Swedish Baptist Work in Iowa." I quote from Mr. Ahlstrom's record: "The church voted by ballot, and here we find a peculiar custom, practiced among several early Baptist churches. C. Lundgren, N. Hayland, John Ring had received an equal number of votes. It developed that the young people had voted Hayland, the older were divided between Lundgren and Ring. Then the suggestion that they cast lots, according to Acts 1:23-26, was acted upon and the lot fell upon John Ring."
With this great decision of the church we have the development of a new period of its history. The church now passes from the leadership of its lay preachers, who were certainly ordained of God for the tasks which they did so well, into a period when the administrative responsibilities are assumed by a designated leader who is called upon common assent of the church.
Certainly these early days under the leadership of the Pioneers are to be cherished as memories never-to-be- forgotten. This chapter is closed with a poem written by the Rev. Reuben Nelson at the conclusion of sixty years history of the church.
THE PIONEERS
A-marching down the years they go,
The sturdy pioneers,
They tread the prairie grasses down
And water it with tears.
We stand today with heads bowed down,
We place on Memory's head a crown.
A-marching down the years they go,
Forgetting not their God,
Their hearts commune with Him on high,
Their hands break up the sod,
So we their children learn to know
The joy of heaven here below.
A-marching down the years they go,
For home a dug-out drear,
But in their minds a mansion fair.
They see with vision clear,
Eternal hope leads them afar,
'Tis He, the Bright and Morning Star.
A-marching down the years they go,
The sons of pioneers,
And may our harvest be as theirs,
Though sown, perhaps, in tears,
When gathered after set of sun,
We hear, "O pioneer, well done!"
CHAPTER III
Builders in the Kingdom of God
"And He gave to the church Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists,' Pastors, and Teachers, with the view of fitting his people for the work of the ministry, and to edify and build up the body of Christ." Ephesians 4:11-12. The history of the work done among the Baptists in the Kiron Church, through the sacrifice of those who were called to serve, reads as a chapter of adventure and romance in the world's record of men - men who have been willing to die for convictions which were deeply imbeded in their hearts.
In the forty-third chapter and the thirteenth verse of Isaiah one finds among the many gems, one fits in particular to the years of history during this period. "Yea, since the day was I am he; and there is none that will deliver out of my hand: I will work, and who can hinder it?"
Rev. John Ring accepted the call extended by the church and began his ministry on March 31, 1873, with the salary of three hundred dollars a year. This undertaking was a tremendous experience and responsibility for the congregation; however, each member assumed his share with thankfulness of heart. God honored their faithfulness through untold joy and blessing.
It is not necessary to mention anything about the personal life and experience of the pastors of the church; however, in the case of Brother John Ring the need is apparent.
John Ring was a sergeant in a Helsinge regiment. During his commission as an army officer he attended a Baptist preaching service. During this service the preacher spoke on "Lazarus and the Rich Man." At the conclusion of the message Sergeant Ring knelt and sobbed out a prayer of repentance. Ring was later ordained to the Baptist ministry.
On one occasion while preaching at Swartwik, Medalpack, Sergeant Ring was apprehended by the State Church clergy and cast into prison. In the Ring family Bible he writes of this experience and says: "The time in prison was only one month and it was indeed a pleasant month."
During the pastor's first year in Kiron a parsonage was built adjacent to the church property. The home cost two hundred and seventy dollars. Thus with an established church, two well-constructed pieces of property, the congregation had much to make them a happy group of people.
Brother Ring remained on the Kiron field until April of 1880. During his ministry thirty-three were baptized into the fellowship of the church. Seven others were admitted through confession of faith. Thirty-three were excluded from the church, eight died, and six moved out of the locality. This left a membership at the conclusion of his ministry of one hundred and fifty.
During this period of time difficulty entered into the church among the members. Much of the difficulty as recorded in the church minutes was caused not so much through actual issues which existed as it was misunderstanding on the part of several members. As time moved on there seemed to be no solution to the problem and, therefore, a group within the church separated themselves from the fellowship of the Baptist and organized in the year 1880, the "Church of God." This organization was later incorporated as the "Evangelical Free Church."
The Baptist Church suffered a tremendous numerical loss during this great upheaval. The membership after the loss diminished to thirty-six -- thirty-six who were willing to accept the original Confession of Faith adopted by the charter members of the congregation.
As every child is destined to meet many unforseen difficulties and uncounted sufferings in the early periods of his life, so also the Pioneer Baptist Church of Kiron marched through deep waters. The early formative years of the church were critical; however, true to the spirit of their forefathers these noble men formed the crux of an organization which was soon to again make itself felt throughout the community. The church kept close to the great heart of God. Sheltered beneath His wings, they knew well they would be kept from the ensnaring assaults of Satan. Many were the stinging temptations which were laid in the pathway of the men. The group trusted in God and claimed boldly the promise of God. "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able, but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." I Corinthians 10:13.
The major problem was to secure a suitable laborer for the hire. The committee searched far and wide for able-bodied men who were capable preachers, winsome soul- winners, and competent pastors. The man chosen must have a love for the Swedish people. He must perceive the great possibilities of the power of God worked out in the hearts of the immigrants. The man must be equipped as a Bible-loving expositor, who would go forth and interpret the Scriptures in a practical and usable manner. This was a necessity to enable the people to apply the principles of Christ in every phrase of their lives.
The next few months were filled with anxiety; however, in the fall of 1881 Rev. L. J. Ahlstrom was persuaded by Pastor C. Silence to make a visit to the Kiron field. Thereupon, a call was extended to Pastor Ahlstrom. He started his work on October 1, 1881.
A better choice could not be made for Ahlstrom possessed the necessary wisdom and spiritual foresight to cope with the complex problems which then existed. Within a few months former members began to reapply for membership in the church. God blessed the efforts of the new pastor and once again people marched to the baptismal waters singing praises unto God.
Travel was difficult, and yet, we often read of the pastor making his missionary tours under all types of weather and conditions. Rev. Ahlstrom was untiring in his efforts. No sun was too warm, or wind too blistery, to do the service of the Lord.
During the years of Ahlstrom's pastorate, and also years previous, several members of the Kiron Church moved north into Ida County. There was no church in the community, and therefore, AhIstrom conducted services for the people in the various homes. The majority of those who attended were members of the Kiron Church. As the work continued others were added to the group. Thereupon it was deemed wise, and under God's providential leading, to organize into a separate church.
On October 25, 1885, Pastor Ahlstrom, together with several deacons and the members of the Kiron Church living in the Arthur community, met to organize the "First Swedish Baptist Church of Arthur." The Articles of Faith as adopted by the Kiron Church in 1868 were adopted by the newly-organized group. The charter members totaled sixteen.
After five years of noble work, Brother Ahlstrom terminated his relationship to the church in February of 1886. During his ministry thirteen were baptized into the church. Eleven were admitted upon confession of faith. Fourteen were granted letters to the Arthur Church. Two members of the church passed on to meet their Saviour. Thus the total increase was eight.
Again the church was without a full-time pastor; therefore, the responsibility again rested on the shoulders of Frodig and Mikaelson. Certainly these two men were provided in the wisdom of God for such an hour as this. The sincerity and passion with which these two preached their sermons each Sunday brought conviction into the hearts of men and women. Once again we find souls seeking after the Lord.
The two lay-pastors continued to pursue their energetic course and called the group to prayer and meditation time and time again. The group tarried steadfastly in prayer week after week. They looked unto God desiring to be fed of that Spiritual Manna which would energize them and bear them up in the work. While the group prayed daily to the Lord of the Harvest that He would send laborers, and also provide the necessary means of their support, the Holy Spirit opened up their eyes to the "acres of diamonds" just before their very eyes.
The group was anxiously awaiting God for an opportunity of service out upon the great field which had been chosen through the Spirit of God as their charge. The church suddenly awakened to the responsibilities which were theirs at their very door. Right in the Kiron community, scarcely a stone's throw from their prayer meeting, were scores of Swedish families - large families with many children, many who were not receiving any spiritual help. How often this has been true in Christian experience. One feels willing and ready to serve in some fardistant place, but ignores the opportunities at hand. The land across the river bank on the east side looks more fertile, but if we are willing to turn the sod on the west side one will reap a bountiful harvest there as well. One should never forget that the woman who sat at Jesus' feet was better served than those who sat at the table. It is not the geographical location of our service that God blesses, but rather it is our faithfulness in the work which He has given us that determines the degree of power which is to be ours. If God's servants want to make a "home run hit" before they are willing to serve, they are likely to be "knocked out of the game" before the opportunities of service and sacrifice are afforded to them. The love of Christ will motivate us into immediate consecrated service in our local surroundings as well as in some far distant land. The same power that constrained Adoniram Judson to leave his home and go to Burma, likewise compelled John Peck to go among the frontier woodsmen in his homeland.
After careful prayer, and hours spent about God's Word, it was the decision of the group to prevail upon Miss Betsy Anderson to come to Kiron and help in the great tasks that God had recently bestowed upon the group. Miss Anderson consented to come. Therefore, during the fall of 1886 an evangelistic campaign was held under her direction.
Miss Anderson preached simply and doctrinally. She was untiring in her efforts in behalf of the Gospel. The members of the church busied themselves in visiting the unsaved and urging them to come to the great meetings.
God did not permit this interest to go unnoticed. A great desire for spiritual nourishment and a great concern for their soul's need was awakened in the hearts of the people. Many fell on their knees and cried aloud unto God to be merciful. The results were overwhelming. Souls were saved by the scores.
Great baptismal services were held. Some would not wait until the spring when weather conditions permitted, but rather insisted upon being baptized in the winter season. Therefore, several, including Mrs. Charles Lindberg, Sr., were baptized through the broken ice in bitter cold weather. Convenience made no difference to these, moved by the Spirit of God to obey the voice within, they were determined to carry through with the command of Christ.
At the conclusion of the year, December, 1886, the membership increased to eighty-eight. There was great rejoicing in the annual business meeting for the members realized that in spite of the difficulties in the past, God was honoring His Word among them.
Much encouraged over the reports of the business sessions, it was unanimously decided to call the Rev. E. O. Olson as pastor. Brother Olson accepted the call extended to him by the congregation and started his work among them on February 1, 1887.
One of the first tasks of the new pastor was to supervise the re-building of the church edifice. The church was re-built and ready for service at an added cost of eleven hundred dollars.
God continued to bless the church. The workers were well pleased over the response which the new pastor was receiving in the community. Again they felt the time had come when special efforts could be put forward through an evangelistic campaign. Miss Betsy Anderson was again asked to assist with the work. The humble efforts of the evangelists were crowned with great success. The whole village throbbed with life and joy in Christ Jesus.
Once again the baptismal waters were stirred and forty-one followed their Master into the sacred waters. These experiences have left an unforgetable impression in the community.
In May of 1895 the pastor, E. O. Olson, terminated his fruitful ministry in the Kiron Church. This was a sad day for the community for Olson was well loved by all. His gracious and kind spirit has been spoken of my many throughout the years.
During the pastor's work in Kiron, seventy were baptized, sixteen admitted to the church through letter, and thirteen came by confession of faith in Christ. A total increase during this short ministry of ninety-nine. Also during this period the records show the loss of fifty-nine. These are attributed to the following facts: twenty-seven who moved out of the locality, twenty-two were excluded, and ten died. The membership, therefore, in 1895 was one hundred and sixteen.
The church immediately called another man to serve as pastor. The Rev. C. J. Chader assumed the important responsibility in May of 1895. The newly appointed pastor was a faithful worker and kept himself close to the field of Kiron. The pastor was an energetic man and his efforts toward service were greatly appreciated. All who contacted him during these early days speak of him with great respect and admiration. Chader's work came to an abrupt end when he resigned from the pastorate in March of 1897.
Thereupon the church once again started to search for a new leader. Several months passed without help as the group waited before God. They persisted in their belief that an answer was soon forthcoming. The answer came in the form of Rev. A. P. Hanson, who accepted their call and began his ministry in August of 1897.
The new pastor immediately began a progressive ministry. During this time there was a great deal of discussion concerning moving the town of Kiron further west. The Chicago and Northwestern Railroad had decided to build their properties in a different location than the present town. Therefore the congregation was met with the problem of ministering to a larger number in the new settlement, or continuing the services in the present location. After a great deal of debate it was decided in favor of the former. Decision was made to move the church.
In 1899 the parsonage and lots were sold to Mr. P. M. Sjogren for the sum of five hundred and fifty dollars. In the year of 1899 the task of moving the church was begun. After several days of hard work the edifice stood in its new location within the heart of the town of Kiron. The railroad had provided the land as a gift to the church. The gift was gratefully acknowledged by the congregation.
The new undertaking necessitated the building of a new parsonage. Work was begun immediately. Within a short time a beautiful home for the pastor was completed. The cost of the twin undertakings amounted to two thousand dollars. This was the largest financial proceeding of the church. With the cooperation of every member the work and responsibility was quickly assumed.
In April of 1903 Pastor Hanson tendered his resignation to the board. This was reluctantly accepted. He was a very energetic and a tireless worker. Those who knew him describe him as "one who was always on the go, preaching everywhere." The simple sermons, which were nevertheless sermons of power and spirit, brought many weary and forsaken sinners to the Christ of the cross. Hanson's determination not to know anything among his people, "save Jesus Christ, and him crucified," was crowned with much success. The preacher was welcomed into the homes of hundreds of his countrymen.
Additions to the church consisted of twenty baptized, five accepted through letter, and ten by confession of faith. The losses included four who moved out of the community, four exclusions, and the death of one member. The total increase during Hanson's ministry was twenty-two.
The pulpit was supplied during the next two months by the Rev. John Johnson. He was to continue until a permanent pastor was secured. In September of 1903 Pastor A. Berglund assumed the responsibility as a temporary pastor. He continued his labors for seven months. He left the church on April 1, 1904.
In April of 1904 the full-time pastor arrived on the field. The new worker was Rev. Gustaf Nyquist. He had been called in early 1903 but had declined the invitation. However, after several more months he felt that it was the will of God to come to Kiron.
The Prayer Conference, which is widely known throughout the state of Iowa as a great time of spiritual refreshment, was organized under the direction of Nyquist. He worked hard to present a well planned program of energetic preaching combined with concentrated study of God's work. This Conference continues to be one of the outstanding experiences of each church year.
Nyquist was a good speaker and pastor, beloved not only by the members, but also by the friends of the church general. Upon his resignation in 1906 fifteen had been received into the membership of the church through baptism and letter.
Brother A. E. Lysell, a student, served as the pastor during the summer months of 1906. His sincerity and depth of passion brought great joy into the hearts of the people of the community.
During the summer months of 1906 it was decided to build a new parsonage. The present home was sold for the sum of five hundred and ten dollars. Plans did not materialize immediately for the new structure. It was not until fall that the parsonage was built. The work was under the direction of the Board and when completed a well- planned and well built parsonage was added to the property of the church. The new parsonage cost two thousand, one dollar, and thirteen cents.
In December of 1906 Pastor J. N. Soderstrom assumed the obligation as shepherd over the flock. His work was short, but during the time of his labor the church was greatly blessed. Numerically, five were added to the rolls. Spiritually, the church was led into further paths of service and sacrifice.
With the close of Soderstrom's ministry on September 1, 1907, we conclude this chapter of work. As one reads the beautiful pages of the history of the church one feels that there is a natural break in the record at this point. The early pioneer days have passed by quietly. Up to this period the membership of the church has fluctuated from large to small through various discouragements and misunderstandings. From this time on one notices, perhaps not such dramatic turns in the history, and yet a slow but sure progress is obvious. The matured church now moves out of the nursery experiences, out of the adolescent errors, into years of constant and persistent growth.
The words of Edward Mote in his immortal hymn are here quoted as typical of the period just brought to a close:
"My hope is built on nothing less
Then Jesus' blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame,
But wholly lean on Jesus" name.
"When darkness veils His lovely face,
I rest on His unchanging grace;
In every high and stormy gale,
My anchor holds within the veil.
"His oath, His covenant, His blood,
Support me in the whelming flood;
When all around my soul gives way,
He then is all my hope and stay."
"When He shall come with trumpet sound,
Oh, may I then in Him be found;
Dressed in His righteousness alone,
Faultless to stand before the throne."
CHAPTER IV
Forward March Through the Years
"And not only so, but we glory in tribulation also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope; and hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Spirit which is given unto us." Romans 5:3-5. "Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer; distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality." Romans 12:12, 13. One month from the day that Pastor Soderstrom left the Kiron Church, the Rev. A. G. Lagerquist began his work. The work of Lagerquist is dear to the heart of every member of the church, and also the State Conference as a whole. Mr. Lagerquist was an ambassador at large. He labored faithfully among his own people and yet found time to enlarge the work of the Baptists throughout the entire state of Iowa.
During his ministry, 1907-1910, there were times of revival and times of apparent quiet, but steady progress was made. The church grew in membership. Its influence in the entire community was greatly increased. The material prosperity of the members likewise grew through the blessing and favor of God.
Under the leadership of Evangelist A. J. Freeman, a man with a clear message, the church was led in services which brought a great spiritual blessing to the entire community.
The additions to the church in the years of Lagerquist's ministry totaled fifty-five. Thirty-four were received through baptism, eleven through letter, and ten through confession. Thus, it is obvious that the Lord was leading the church into greater and greater heights.
Numerical additions are not to be interpreted as the standard and measure of God's love; however, in this period of history it was a marked indication of God's approval upon the work. It is clear through the history of the church that great blessings have come through the exclusions as well as the additions to the membership. God can lead through the closed door as well as the open door.
At the annual business meeting of the congregation in January, 1908, the question was brought up as to the building of a new church. The present structure had been built thirty-two years previous and had served well as the sanctuary of the Lord. Since the congregation was growing, and since the services were attended with over-flow crowds, it was the opinion of the majority that the time had come to rebuild a house for the Lord. Much like the "sons of the prophets" in the book of II Kings 1:7, "the place where we dwell with thee is too strait for us." The building was too small for the ever-expanding work in the community.
A decision was reached during the business session. The group approved the plan that if seven thousand dollars were raised the congregation would proceed with the undertaking. The task appeared stupendous.
The energetic pastor of the church, together with his financial assistants, immediately set about to gather in the sum. Pastor Lagerquist was convinced that the Lord's will was in the matter, and therefore, fearlessly, he assumed the greater share of the work. The Lord's blessing rested upon the efforts for within a few months the entire amount was pledged. The community as a whole became enthusiastic over the project, and one notices from the records a whole-hearted response to the plea.
It was a happy day that the congregation reassembled in the church and listened to the encouraging report of the pastor. Decision was thereupon made to begin immediately with the construction of the church.
Invitations for bids were let out to several contractors; however, after receiving communications from several the congregation rejected all as, "unsatisfactory".
A building committee was appointed by the church. The group consisted of the following: Designer and superintendent of construction, A. G. Lagerquist; foreman, J. A. Engberg; assistants, P. Johnston, John Erickson, C. E. Engberg, Nels Larson, Alfred Clauson, and C. S. Johnson.
On May 4, 1908, the congregation met in the old church building for the last time. A service of prayer and praise was conducted by the pastor. At the conclusion of this memorable service work was begun by the committee. The old edifice was torn down. This brought tears into the eyes of pioneers who could recall the day they cried unto the Lord for the first time and peace and joy had swept into their hearts. Many tender and sacred memories were wrapped in the mortar, stone, and beams of the building. Memories which are indelibly impressed upon the minds of the people.
The whole membership worked faithfully, and it was a happy group of men who met daily for the task of building a new church home. After months of toil and sacrifice the church was completed at a cost of ten thousand, seven hundred and sixty-five dollars, and fifty-four cents. The entire structure was completely paid for upon completion.
December 4-13, 1908, marked the dates of the great dedicatory services of the edifice. The meetings really were three-fold in meaning. The church gathered for the Annual Prayer Conference; the group commemorated the fortieth anniversary of the church; and, the people were assembled to offer unto God a house of worship.
The ten-day program brought visitors from far and near, great were the days of jubilee and thanksgiving to God. It was the happy experience of the pastor to pray with souls during the dedication of the church building. As a result of these services several were added to the membership of the group.
The building stands today as a monument to the foresight of Rev. Lagerquist and the church. Few country communities have buildings to equal it, and few city structures built thirty years ago can compare with the edifice in modern arrangements and conveniences. God surely led in this also, for above all, the structure stands as a place of worship and as a monument to the faith of men in He who is the corner stone and head of the Church.
On December 1, 1910, A. G. Lagerquist resigned from the church as the pastor. The church again searched about for a pastor. Pastor A. A. Anderson accepted the call issued to him by the church and began his work on January 1, 1911.
Anderson immediately impressed the church as a preacher whose heart was warm with the love of God. He searched diligently after those who were in need of Christ. His efforts were indefatiquable in behalf of the Gospel work. God's approval upon the choice of Anderson as pastor seemed obvious, for scores of souls were brought into the Kingdom and dozens of men were reclaimed for service to God. He was tactfully able to contact many of his country men who had lost connection with Baptist fellowship.
One of the happy experiences of the entire history of the church occurred during the ministry of Anderson. In September, 1911, the Swedish Baptist General Conference of America met in the Kiron church. This was an unusual honor for a community the size of Kiron. More delegates and visitors attended the sessions from out of the state than the population of the entire community. It will be recalled that during these important sessions it was appoitned of the General Conference to move the schools of the Baptist Conference from Chicago, Ill. to Saint Paul, Minn. This decision was an important one for it has greatly affected the history of the entire Conference.
In October, 1911, the pastor of the church was assisted in special services by Rev. V. E. Hedberg. This was again duplicated in March of the following year.
The evangelist was a well-gifted man and well chosen for the occasion. His knowledge of the Bible was thorough, and his manner of presentation pleasing and forceful.
As a result of these services and the faithful ministry of the pastor, sixteen were baptized into the fellowship of the church.
Again, in July, 1913, another special effort was made to make Christ known among men. The Rev. P. C. Nelson was asked to assist in the work. Pastor Nelson was well known throughout the entire country as the General Conference evangelist. It is said of his work, I quote: "Nelson's sermons were deep and sensitive, marked by a fervent evangelistic power, wholly characteristic of him; and his frank, open-hearted and sympathetic relations with his people won their love and confidence." Concluding these Spirit-filled services twenty-two followed into the way of obedience and were baptized.
On April 1, 1914, the church reluctantly accepted the resignation of Pastor Anderson. His deeply consecrated services to the community were greatly appreciated. During a short ministry of four and onehalf years, thirty- eight were baptized and twelve were received by letter. This brought the total membership at the close of his ministry to one hundred and fifty.
In June, 1914, John Selander, a student, accepted the responsibility as pastor over the church. Inasmuch as he returned to the school in Saint Paul to complete his studies the following fall, his work among the people was very short. The brevity, however, did not take the power out of his messages. Much was done to strengthen the church through the efforts of Brother Selander. His work is vividly recalled by the members.
Pastor N. Morton accepted the call extended by the congregation and started his work upon the field November 1, 1914. Morton was a busy pastor, and during the years of his pastorate the country was engaged in war against the Central Powers in Europe. Many complex problems met the church during the dark days of war. As pastor, Morton led the church through the heartaches and sorrows of a world in upheaval.
During the years of service rendered by Morton to the community, sixteen were admitted to the membership through letter, ten by baptism, and three by confession of faith. During this same period fourteen letters of transfer were granted, eight were erased from membership, and eleven were taken home to be with the Lord. Pastor Morton terminated his relationship as pastor to the church in the summer of 1919.
After a few months with Pastor Lagerquist as temporary leader the church unanimously offered a call to Rev. C. I. Peterson. The church felt very happy when it received the affirmative answer. The Petersons had no sooner moved into the parsonage (1919) and become active in the work of the church, than the members found themselves ready to work with him, and they came to be dearly beloved by the people and the congregation.
Extra efforts were put forth during the ministry of Peterson to reach out after those in the community who as yet were unchurched. Therefore, three different campaigns were held under the direction of the following evangelists: Stucker, Nygren, and Dahlquist. These services were well attended. God honored the faithful preaching of His Word. Several were added to the church rolls as a direct result of these efforts.
At the conclusion of Pastor Peterson's ministry the records of the church reveal the total membership as one hundred and fifty-three. During the years of the pastor's work, thirty-seven were baptized, fourteen were received through transfer of. letters, and nine were admitted on confession of faith. Also in the records it will be noted that ten were dropped of their membership, sixteen were granted letter of leave, and twenty-two were called to "the land that is fairer than day." Brother Peterson resigned from the church in the spring of 1925. He had served the church five years and six months.
In the spring of 1925 Rev. E. J. Nordlander was prevailed upon to act as temporary pastor. It was not long until he was called upon to assume the full responsibility of the church. This he accepted. During the two and one-half years of his work he showed himself to be energetic and sincere. He was a student in the real sense of the word. His deep and masterful sermons remain long within the hearts of the people. Together with his wife, (Alice Sandberg of Kiron), he endeared himself to the community.
Brother Nordlander remained several years in the community as he pursued studies through the University of Pennsylvania. During this time he was often called upon to grant assistance to the church.
During the years of his active pastorate eleven were baptized, three were admitted by letter, and one was received into the membership through confession of faith.
On the 3rd day of April, 1941, Brother Nordlander heard a higher call from above and went home to be with his Lord and Saviour. Thus came to an end the life of a servant of God who gave himself completely to the work for which he had been called. His sudden summons was a shock to the entire church. Funeral services were conducted in the Kiron Church and interment was in the Kiron cemetery.
Rev. Reuben Nelson, then a recent graduate of Des Moines University, was called to fill in the summer months. During the short time of his labors the church learned so to respect him that they prevailed upon him to continue as their pastor. He continued, therefore, for a period of one year. Youthful, but nevertheless powerful, Nelson preached the unsearchable riches of Christ Jesus with great power. In the spring of 1928 Nelson asked the York evangelistic party to assist him. Meetings were held and the Spirit of God moved upon the lives of men and women.
Reluctantly the church accepted Pastor Nelson's resignation. During his brief ministry five were baptized into the fellowship, two were admitted by letter, and two were admitted through testimony. With one deduction, through transfer, the total membership was one hundred and fifty.
Once again the hearts of the membership were made happy for on September 1, 1928, Rev. Gordon Carlson came to occupy the parsonage.
The pastor worked unceasingly toward the salvation of souls and the edification of the saints. He preached a gospel of separation, and thus built up a group of believers who were firm in the faith. The truth of this statement is evidenced in the fact that the church continues today, stalwart and true to the purpose of its charter members, a station of soul winning.
For seven years Carlson carried on the work among the Kiron members. For seven years God poured out His blessing and power through the ministry of the pastor. In the fall of 1935, however, Carlson's faithful ministry came to an abrupt close for he then tendered his resignation to the church. Seventy-nine were received into the membership of the church during the years. Forty-eight of these were baptized and the remainder were accepted through testimony and letter.
On January 1, 1936, the Rev. Walfred Johnson arrived from Duluth, Minn., to undertake the work as pastor of the church. During the first two months of his ministry the community received several snow storms which were unparalleled in the history of the state. It appeared to the newly-appointed pastor that he had judged wrong in coming into the community. However, soon the weather cleared and once again the church began to function regularly. Crowds gathered into the auditorium to hear the new pastor. For years the people continued to show their approval for the pastor in their faithfulness through church attendance.
The work that Pastor Johnson did in the community will long remain. His wise council, able leadership, and deeply scriptural messages have left a lasting effect in the hearts of the people.
The church was again saddened when on January 1, 1942, Pastor Johnson and his well-loved family departed the community. Not the church alone, but all in the locality felt that now they were to lose a leader in the community.
During Brother Johnson's ministry, thirty-four were received into the fellowship of the church. Among the number received, twenty-seven were baptized.
Again it was the task of the congregation to search for a pastor. Several suggestions were made to the church. Finally it was decided to call S. Bruce Fleming of the Ebenezer Baptist Church of Duluth, Minn. He answered the call in the affirmative and assumed the pastorate on July 5, 1942.
It is difficult for one to write of the work that has been done during his own time of service; however, the writer briefly mentions the experiences of the past year. I quote from an article that appeared in "The Standard" during the week of January:
" 'These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.'
"The words spoken by Christ to the church just before the crucifixion have always been an inspiration to our lives; however, the reality of the joys expressed in the scriptures once again were ours in Kiron, Iowa, last Lord's day. Thirty- two new members were received into the fellowship of the church - 27 through baptism and 5 by letter and confession of faith. The present membership of the church is two hundred and twenty-seven. We praise God for this demonstration of the work of the Holy Spirit among us.
"Two month ago a baptismal service for five was planned; however, as the Lord led, more and more said yes to the Master in these words: 'I, too, wish to follow Christ into the path of obedience.' One person said: 'I have not slept for weeks for thinking about this matter.' Another confessed: "For several years I have felt this need, but I never stepped out in complete willingness.' Still another revealed, as he came to the parsonage one cold afternoon: 'On New Year's Day a power of conviction swept over me. I cannot explain it, but I know it was God speaking to my heart.' Many have come through the Bible doctrine class which has met every week for the past two and one- half months. And so on and on, the stories of victory can be told.
"It was a happy experience to see husband and wife, father and daughter, sister and brother, teacher and student, butcher, farmer, laborer, housewife, and many others, testify to their faith in Christ.
"The annual meeting reported one of the happiest years in the 75-year history of the church. We look to God with humbleness of heart that He may in His good pleasure continue to pour out His Spirit upon us. We pray that we may be faithful to the task with which He has honored us, and that many more souls, who have expressed their concern, may follow Christ in the near future."
At the monthly business meeting of the church in March, it was approved of the congregation to renovate and remodel the main auditorium. Committees were appointed and under the direction of Mr. J. A. Engberg, as foreman, the work was begun. Again the spirit of the pioneer was revealed in the willingness of all to participate in the work. After several weeks of work the church was ready for occupation. Great joy was expressed in the hearts of all as they met on the Lord's day to meet in the beautiful sanctuary.
It will be pointed out at this time that several members of the church have gone out into Christian service. The pastors of the church have always been on the alert to guide young people into Christian service. The following have left the community into Christian service: Paul Johnson, S. A. Nelson, Fred Lawrence, Joseph Swanson, Sullivan Waldemar, Lena (Engberg) Fowle, Emily Swanson, Alice (Sandberg) Nordlander, and N. Florence Johnson. At the present time there are two young men at Bethel Institute training for the Christian ministry, namely, Harris Younquist and John Finstrom. May God continue to call out others into the great field which is white already unto harvest.
During the seventy-five years of the history four hundred and eighty-three have been baptized and four hundred and four have been received through letter or experience. The total received into the church during this period, therefore, eight hundred and eighty-seven. Truly it may be said: "Who then is Paul, and who is Appollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? I have planted, Appollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth anything, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. For we are labours together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise master builder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Christ Jesus." I Corinthians 3:5-11.
In closing this historical account the author quotes a paragraph from the account written by the Rev. Reuben Nelson in 1928. The thoughts in the mind of the present writer are so well summed up in the previous account that this will be used as the concluding remarks.
"In such a brief history as this, many important developments and details can only be mentioned, although they are worth both thought and praise.
"To express a man's ministry merely in terms of members received and removed, is to place upon it the narrowest limitations. In the hearts of the members themselves the history of their ministry is written more fully and with more tender feeling. Memory presents the moments when the pastor's comfort, encouragement, friendship, or warning were the thing they needed and thankfully received. We may not record the sermons preached, yet surely seed has been sown which is bearing and shall bear fruit to eternal life.
"The same thing may be said of the pioneers. We cannot record the pain and the hardship, the zeal which they displayed. Faults they may have had, but zeal for the Lord was uppermost in their hearts. These things are known by Him alone who bought them for Himself.
"And so down through the years there have been shining names in the history of the church. But only a detailed history could mention them. As the years have passed they too have gone.
"What does all this tell us? It seems to me, it speaks to us of the oneness in Christ. We may leave out names and individual achievements for He who is the Head of the Church has been the one leader through all.
"The history has been varied, success has followed defeat. After a period of struggle, calm has ensued and His Spirit has led to a great revival. How wonderful are His ways!
"May peace be to the memory of those who have passed on before. May His grace lead those faithful ones who remain with us. His power guide the church on to a period of victory in the community for the Kingdom of God."
CHAPTER V
Organizations Within the Church
PART I. THE SUNDAY SCHOOL
"And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up." Deuteronomy 6:5-7.
The Sunday school, although not the church, is of the church. It is the function of the church to instruct all in the doctrine of the Word of God. This duty is primarily carried out through the ministry of the church school.
The religious training of the child has for centuries been an essential part of the program of the church. The early reformers, Luther, Calvin, Knox,and Wesley, all held schools in which the children were taught the Scriptures.
True to the principles of the father of the modern Sunday school movement, Robert Raikes, 1780, the pioneers in the First Baptist Church felt the need of training youth.
The Sunday school was organized in the year. 1870 in the local school house. Brother C. J. Star called the group together for the purpose of systematic training in the Word of God. Mr. C. J. Star was appointed superintendent. This he happily assumed.
The work during the first two years was very difficuIt at times. One notices in the record that the school was dissolved in 1872, and later reorganized. The school has enjoyed an unbroken history since that time to this. At present the organization is in its seventy-first year.
From the year 1872 the school was stabalized with a capable superintendent and a devout corps of teachers.
The Swedish language was used for many years. It was not until A. G. Lagerquist was appointed superintendent in 1907 that the English language came into use.
Many faithful members in the Sunday school work should be honorably mentioned for their untiring efforts; however, space demands that we forego any such proposition.
There has been a gratifying growth in attendance during the past years, and this is due largely to the workmanship and steadfastness of the rank and file of the officers and teachers. The school is divided into fourteen classes, besides a Cradle Roll department. These classes are closely graded, follow uniform schedules of promotion, and use graded lesson material.
Several classes are individually organized within the school, such as the Friendly Bible class, the Philathea class, the Baraca class, the Junior Philathea class, and the Junior Baraca class.
The present superintendent, Mrs. Edner Larson, has served since 1935 in a whole-hearted and energetic way, and has maintained the standards and enthusiasm of the school. She is ably assisted by Mrs. C. W. Lindberg, secretary; Warren Larson, treasurer; Velma Larson, pianist, and Mrs. Bryan Weberg, Cradle Roll superintendent, and fourteen efficient teachers on the staff.
PART II. THE BAPTIST YOUNG PEOPLE'S SOCIETY
"0 God, thou art my God; early will I seek Thee." Psalm 32:2 "Remember now the Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them." Ecclesiastes 12:1.
The purpose of the young people's society is the training of the spiritual life of the young people. It is to put into operation and expression the feelings and experiences of the soul. Christianity aims to be practical as well as spiritual. It is the application of faith in everyday experiences that makes religion practical.
During the early years of the church there was no attempt to form a young people's group. However, in 1889 under the direction of Pastor A. P. Hanson a group met for the purpose of joining themselves together in Christian fellowship. The first president elected was P. W. Weberg. He had been converted and baptized during the early religious awakening led by Brother A. Hayland. Weberg's enthusiasm and depth of sincerity made him the logical choice. Alfred J. Clauson, a faithful,energetic worker, was appointed treasurer, and Emily Swanson, secretary.
The society met on a specified evening each week. The meetings were conducted by some member of the group. A talk was then given by some member on a designated subject.
Today the group meets each Sunday evening. During the winter months the program is rendered prior to the evening service in the lower parlors of the church. In the summer months the services are conducted in conjunction with the service of the church. The society takes advantage of the first half hour of the program.
The present membership of sixty-five is headed by Joyce Crook, as president; Lila Lee Clauson, treasurer, and Annabelle Lindberg, secretary.
PART III. THE DORCAS AID SOCIETY
"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." I Corinthians 15:58.
Women have always been prominent in the circles of Christianity. It was so in the New Testament era and it is also true in the history of the Kiron Church.
In 1871 three neighbors met to pray, sing, and study their Bibles. At the conclusion of the devotions it was suggested that the three, Mrs. C. P. Frodig, Mrs. Peter Nelson and Mrs. Carolina Swanson, form a women's missionary organization. It was there and then formed. Each contributed one dollar to the treasury.
Only eternity will reveal the extent of good which these untiring women accomplished during these years.
Among those who have faithfully served for many years can be mentioned: C. P. Frodig, who served as secretary and treasurer for twenty-three years; Alfred J. Clauson, who succeeded him, served for twenty-two years. Others are Emily Swanson, Mrs. I. Michaelson, Mrs. Nels Winquist, Mrs. E. P. Sievers, Mrs. Johanna Engberg, Nellie Winquist and Mrs. C. M. Olson.
The present efficient leadership. includes: Mrs. E. J. Nordlander, president; Mrs. Oscar Finstrom, secretary, and Mrs. C. S. Johnson, treasurer.
The women of the church look back upon seventy three years of continuous service. Only eternity will reveal the greatness and the vastness of their work.
PART IV. THE PUBLIC LIBRARY
"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." II Timothy 2:15.
The library came into existence largely as the result of the vision and the efforts of Mrs. E. J. Nordlander, and the Rev. A. G. Lagerquist.
The organization is unique within the church. It is not the gathering of a few discarded books in some dark corner within the church, but rather consists of thousands of volumes purchased for the mutual benefit of the community. Thirty different periodicals and magazines come into the library monthly.
Twice weekly the library is opened for the public. It is well furnished with tables and chairs. There is an annual circulation of books of over five thousand. It is used extensively by the high school students and faculty. The rooms, light, and heat are furnished free by the congregation.
The organization was started November 22, 1908, in the C. E. Engberg home. On motion the following were elected to the library board: Pastor A. G. Lagerquist, N. Florence Johnson, Lillian F. Engberg, Mrs. E. J. Nordlander, Edwin A. Johnson and Doctor W. A. Garner.
The librarians during the past thirty-five years have been: Mrs. E. J. Nordlander, N. Florence Johnson, and Lillian F. Engberg. The latter serves efficiently in the capacity today.
The following are present members of the library board: S. Bruce Fleming, president; Mrs. E. J. Nordlander, vice-president; Mrs. H. L. Ward, secretary; J. A. Engberg, treasurer; Mrs. C. E. Dahl, Miss J. Cedergren, Mrs. C. S. Johnson and Bert E. Lindstrom.
PART V. THE MINISTRY OF SONG - THE CHOIR
"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord." Colossians 3:16
The choir has existed for the past sixty years or more. However, it was not fully organized until April 24, 1903. Since that date it has rendered faithful and sacrificial service to the church.
Throughout the thousands of public worship services in the history of the church the choir has always been willing to serve. During special holiday occasions the group has always cooperated with the church.
Several should be named among those who have given whole-hearted support for over a quarter of a century. We mention in particular, Alfred J. Clauson, J. A. Engberg, Lillian F. Engberg, and S. M. Sjogren.
The present choir director, Harry Lindstrom, has been recalled several times to the baton, and has wielded it well.
The following officers serve as leaders of the choir at the present time: Bert Lindstrom, president; Velma Larson, secretary; Gloria Sjogren, treasurer.
No one can estimate the measure of the contribution which the service of song has made to the success of the work of God. It may only be urged that this service may continue to the encouragement of God's children and to the glory of God.
PART VI. WHAT I CAN SOCIETY
Written by Mrs. Seth Peterson and Mrs. Ernest Gustafson
Nearly a hundred forty years ago a company of students met one summer afternoon under the shelter of a haystack and talked and prayed about sending the gospel to the heathen. This haystack meeting was the birthplace of American Foreign Missions. The subject of the conversation that afternoon turned upon the moral darkness of Asia. Samuel Mills, the leading spirit of the group, proposed to send the gospel to that dark, heathen land, uttering the words which have since become a missionary classic: "We can do it if we will." President Capen of the American Board at the centennial of this haystack prayer meeting in 1906 changed the wording a little making it ever more emphatic when he said: "We can do it and we will." It would be well to often repeat to ourselves both of these sayings: "We can do it if we will;" "We can do it and we will." Then perhaps we shall become more true to the spirit of our "What I Can."
With this meeting as an inspirational background, one winter afternoon forty-two years ago in the early days of our town, there met in the old church a small group of women and girls to hear Miss Dora Eaton of Emerson, Iowa. She was a young woman of deep consecration to the missionary cause. Her address and earnest desire that a What I Can Society be started among our young women and girls, led to an organization that day, February 1, 1901.
Among the leading spirits at that first meeting as well as in the meetings of the first few years were, Mrs. A. P. Hanson, the minister's wife, and Miss N. Florence Johnson, who were intensely interested in the missionary work.
Our What I Can was begun for young women and girls, the meetings being held in the afternoon at the various homes. In 1906 we were led to change the time of meeting to the evenings since a few of our young men became interested in this work.
During the first few years our average attendance was not more than ten, but the enthusiasm of the members overcame the lack of numbers.
Through all these years we have tried to make our meetings thoroughly missionary in character. Our programs have been such as to inform and interest along missionary lines. We believe that we have done a large inspirational and educational work among our young people, and that many owe their interest in missions, to a very large extent, to the things they have heard at our What I Can meetings. We have studied the foreign mission fields, their problems of education, health, and religion; also our home missions and their problems.
We rejoice that the interest in our What I Can has grown throughout these years, so that now our average attendance is nearly 100. All members of our church are members of the What I Can. This is as it should be for men, women and children are all needed to further the work of our Master. All members help to make up the programs. This method makes the programs both interesting and educational.
As we look back over our forty-two years of history, we are truly inspired and feel that as an organization we have accomplished what we scarcely thought we could.
"This is our faith tremendous,
Our wild hope who shall scorn?
That in the name of Jesus
The world shall be reborn."
(Monthly Messages was a church oriented 4 page community newsletter.)
MONTHLY MESSAGES
KIRON, IOWA JULY 1926
Dear Friend:
We most heartily invite you to our services and are pleased to extend to you our hand in Christian Fellowship. Our Sunday services are: Bible School at 10:00 a. in. Morning worship in Swedish at 11 a. in. B. Y. P. U. and evening service at 7:30 o'clock.
The Fourth Tuesday of the month The What I Can Society.
The second Friday at 2:30 p.m.Dorcas Society.
The Thursday before the first Sunday in the month the church covenant and business meeting, after the prayer meeting. The choir rehearsal after prayer meeting every Thursday night.
There is a place for you at these services. Will the Lord find you in it, when He meets with His people?
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I am so happy that I again have the privilege to send you a few lines of greetings.' I wish that' all the readers of this circular enjoy the peace of Jesus Christ. The peace of Christ is as refreshing to our spiritual life as the showers of rain were to our thirsty fields. Yes, His peace is as soothing to our feverish thirsting hearts and minds as the cool refreshing drinks we have taken during the very warm days the past weeks are for our thirsting bodies. May we all drink of the Water of Life freely.
The Anderson meetings closed July 4 and July 5 he left for St. Paul, Minnesota, first, and after that for Burnett county, Wisconsin for a series of meetings there.
Anderson's sermons indicated a very careful and diligent preparation. His messages had no uncertain sound. lie emphasized the necessity of New Firth as a minister of the Gospel ought to do. He also was very emphatic in his Preaching regarding the importance of living a truly sanctified life for those who confessed themselves to be followers of Jesus Christ. But what power would not the Gospel of. Christ have, if Christ's disciples lived as He has asked us, yea more, requires us to live?
The meetings as a whole were a great blessing to those who faithfully attended them. The consecration and prayer meetings held after the services were refreshing indeed. It was our privilege to pray with seven. Two of these were consecrations, All of them were from the Sunday school. We certainly are thankful to God and Brother Anderson for the blessings received in this series of meetings.
THANKS
To Rev. H. E. Sodergren and the Free Mission church; to Rev. Stauffer and friends from Deloit; to Rev. P. Lovene and the Arthur church; and to all of the other friends who helped to make the meetings as successful as they were. To our members and our friends in the community who in spite of the busy season and the bard work they attended the meetings as faithfully as they did, we rejoicingly give a hearty handshake of thanks.
Neutrality in religion means a surrender to the devil. Everybody wants to be happy. Happiness and go-to church habit go together.
WELL SAID!
One of the great sayings of our member during the Anderson meetings was: "It is not right to stay at home from the meetings " How would it be to apply that principle to services in general of the church, even if they are not called revival meetings.
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At the writing of the last issue of the Monthly Messages the time was so limited so it was not possible to write anything about the Conference annual meeting in Forest City. As we believe that it is not amiss to say a few words about it, we will do it now.
The reception by the pastor, Rev. W. Turnwall and wife was very cordial and pleasing. The same friendly spirit met us wherever we went. Extensive changes and renovations were made to the church and lawn, so everything was inviting indeed. The arrangements with the meals was excellent. The price of the meals was astonishing, especially, when the quality of both was taken into consideration, The reception as a whole. was ideal, both in the church and the homes. Thanks to all, and especially our friends, A. M. Clausons.
The trip to the cemetery Saturday afternoon, where some of the Pioneers both in the church and our Baptist work as a whole, rested unto the resurrection morning, was solemn. The short address of Rev. G. A Osbrink and J. M. Schuleen were touching. This service made us think seriously of the "Home over There." The trip was continued to Pilot Knob. This point brought us nearer the "Home Over There," as it is declared to be the highest point in Iowa. A number of songs were sung. The writer was asked to lead in prayer. After that some visited the Dead Man's lake, others hurried back to town without making that important visit.
The sermons and the addresses delivered at the conference testified of a burning zeal for Christ and His work.
Friday evening and Sunday afternoon were set apart for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of the organization of the church. Greetings from the other churches in town were given Friday evening Sunday afternoon some of the older members were presented. Memorial sermons were preached by Reverends P. Lovene. L. W. Linder and Robert Larson. Like other services of similar nature, it was encouraging and inspirational. Of the conference it car be truthfully said. that it was a GOOD CONFERENCE.
At the. election of members to the Board of Trustees, V. E. Soderstrom of Sioux City was elected to succeed G. Hammerstrom, who declined to serve any longer upon the Board- A. G. Youngquist was reelected, E. J. Nordlander was elected to fill the vacancy after Rev. J. C. Johnson, for one year. E. J. Nordlander was also elected to serve as Corresponding and Financial Secretary as P. Lovene declined to serve as such. Theo Pearson of Des Moines, was reelected treasurer of the Conference. A, G. Youngquist was also reelected chairman of the board.
It was not decided where the conference should meet next year. but the opinion was that it ought to be in Kiron.
May the present Conference yea give us a richer harvest than for many years before. The Lord will give it, if we are faithful to Him. Again most hearty thanks to Forest City and friends for all their kindness
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We bid Ed Andersons, O. W. Johnsons and Ralph Bilstens a most hearty welcome to town. Mrs. Mae Turin will soon leave for Waterloo Iowa, where she will enter the St. Francis Hospital. and will have charge of the operating room. It is too bad that our sister could not be kept nearer home. We wish her the greatest success in her profession May she use the opportunity of pointing many to Christ the Great Physician.
PLEASED TO SEE YOU ALL
It has been a great joy to us seeing so very many visitors and friends at our services since the Monthly Messages last came out. Here are the names of some of them where it has been possible to get the names: Fern V. Johnson of South Dakota, where she has been teaching the last year. Mrs. Edward Larson from Los Angeles. Mrs. Larson left for Los Angeles last week. Her sister, Winnie Winquist accompanied her to Omaha. Margaret Fowle of Greeley, Colo. John Anderberg, Clarence Anderberg and wife, Victor Youngquist, wife and children, all of Gowrie. Charles Winquist wife and children of Alcester, S.D., Waldo and Emery Mauritz, Bronson; August Waldemer, wife and daughter, Pheobe, Pisgah; Gust Anderson, Roy Eckrnans, D. Ericksons, Odebole, Arthur Lindbergs, K. J. Palms, Andrew Carlsons, J. F. Petersons, Martha Gradin, Andrew Johnson's folks, Rev. P. Lovene, and others beside the great throng that came down on Arthur night at the Anderson meetings June 30. E. B. Nordells of Omaha, Mrs. H. A Johnson, Des Moines, O. Eckholtz, wife and son Chicago; Mrs. A. J. Edstrom and daughters, Edith and Alice Stromsberg, Nebr., Alice Edstrom favored us with a solo at the evening service, Sunday July 18 Hazel and Esther Wilson, Alcester, S. D.; Mrs. Torbert and children Kansas City, Mo., Garnett and Margaret Nelson, Pasadena, Calif.; M. B. O'Banions, Deloit. Besides the pastor's folks have had the pleasure of having a short, too short, visit from the oldest son, wife and son, George, of Chicago. They arrived Saturday July 3, and left Wednesday, July 7. We enjoyed greatly to hear Mrs. A. J. Nordlander sing at our services both in Swedish and English. We hope that they can soon come back, and that they then will stay for some time. Most of our friends have returned to their homes. To all these and to those whose names I did not get, we say most heartily: Welcome back!
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What is an egotist? It is an "I." specialist. Does it apply to any one of us? Mrs. Enoch Ecklund is also back from her visit to her parental home in Minnesota. Glad to see you, welcome back.
Ruth and Virginia Winquist visited the home of Victor Winquist for about a week. We are glad to see them back again safe and sound. They came back when Grandma and Uncle Vernie made a visit up there and came back.
MRS. P. B. OLSON AT REST
Again one of of the older members have been summoned to the Heavenly home. Mrs. Olson died July 20 at the age of 83 years at her home in Odebolt where she has lived the last 19 years. She was not well at all Monday, June 8, 1925, when the writer in company with Rev. Lagerquist called at the home. The end came after a little more than a week's suffering from a fall, when she broke her hip. Mrs. Olson has been a member of the Kiron Baptist church, the last time, since Dec. 6, 1890. She had belonged to the church about twenty-two years before As far as it is possible to find out she first joined the church September 5, 1869.
The funeral was held at the Mission Church in Odebolt Thursday July 22. Rev. Fred Hall officiating. The body in the family lot in the Kiron cemetery.
She is lamented by her husband, P. B. Olson; the daughters, Mrs. Hulda Ahlberg and family and Mrs. Lena Rimer and family; the sons Otto and Oscar S. Olson and their families. She is also missed by the Kiron church, but by and by we will all meet at the throne of Glory. May peace rest upon her memory!
FRANK L. JOHNSON IS TRANSLATED
Unexpectedly the message came, Frank Johnson is dead. God advanced him for service near His Heavenly throne as it was not possible for to serve God any longer on earth. The last two years our brother's health has been failing. The funeral was held at the Free Mission church. The profuse flower offering and the great number of people present at the funeral showed that our brother was highly esteemed. May all of the family seek comfort from Him who, during our brother's life journey was his constant comfort and who was so precious to him.
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It certainly is pleasing when members who live at other places remember the home church with their contributions and greetings. We extend to Mabel Ecklund for her kind remembrance of the church a hearty thank you. Mabel and Ruth Ecklund left Friday morning via I. C. for Chicago, where they are going to visit friends and relatives for a few weeks.
Lillian Engberg arrived home Tuesday evening, July 27, from Greeley, Cole., where she spent a month visiting with her sister, Mrs. Fowle and family. Welcome home.
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During the past month there has been three Dorcas society meetings. At Aaron Ackerson's Friday June 25, Rev. David E. Anderson addressed the society. At John Gustafson's Friday July 9, E. J. Nordlander gave a short talk. At Guy Eckman's Friday, July 23, Mrs. A. J. Edstrom addressed this meeting, speaking of the life work of Miss Anna Haggquist. Mrs. Bryan Weberg sang a solo. At Ackersons Mrs. Ackerson and Mrs. Ida Lindquist entertained. At Guy Eckman's Mesdames Eckman and Edwin Turin were the hostesses. At all three of these meetings the attendance was very good and the services interesting.
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The What I Can society bad a very successful meeting at Edwin Turin's Thursday evening, July 8. Miss Florence Johnson spoke of the successes in the mission work on the foreign field the past fiscal year. Frances Miller's topic was "In the wake of the storm in China." Winnie Winquist set forth the "Great work on Shanghai College." Ruth Ecklund treated the subject: "Opportunities in Assam." Lorraine Johnson recited "The Little Brown Girl." Mrs. Herbert Turin sang "Open my Eyes." Mesdames E. Turin and Guy Eckman entertained. The attendance was excellent. The average attendance at Sunday School last quarter was 141. The quarter before it was 146. Let us not have any slump this quarter.
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What do you think of Wanamaker and his going to church? The devotion shown by a man like Wanamaker to his church ought to put some iron or tonic into the blood of many church members. He said "It is a great privilege to touch shoulders with the earnest Christians, men and women who are interested in promoting Christ's kingdom upon earth. For four years while Postmaster General under the Harrison administration, I traveled 100,000 miles in order to be present each week at my church." Don't you think that was pleasing God? Will you imitate him? If it was a good thing for him, it must be a good thin,- for others. Try it!
We are glad to see Bert Lindstrom back behind the counter after the illness.
Mrs. Lena Ecklund is working during the summer months in the Sandberg-Nordlander home.
To the friends who so kindly decorate. the pulpit every Sunday with flowers we extend our most heartfelt thanks.
Mrs. Margaret Hellgren, after a short visit in Kiron again, has left for Elbow Lake, and other places in Minnesota, where she has relatives and friends whom she will visit during the summer. Just received a letter from her in which she tells that she enjoys herself immensely. May she get more of the same friendly hospitality. Welcome back, sister!
Mrs. F. O. Johnson and her son are spending some time in Colorado, visiting friends and relatives. May the mountain climate refresh them greatly May they have a good time, indeed. Hope that Mr. Johnson does not feel too lonesome at home.
Joe Engberg is taking a two months vacation from his work in the bank, but be is not idle. He is spending part of the time in fixing up the church.
Harold Sjogren is taking up a course in Electricity at one of the schools in Chicago. We wish him good success in his studies. Carroll Larson is spending the summer on a farm near Lawton, Iowa. Good luck.
It is a little late to say anything about the Daily Vacation Bible school From all the favorable comment about it, we got the notion that it was a great success. One thing is certain namely, that all the teachers tried their best to make it good. We thank the parents and friends for the tokens of appreciation they gave.
Our Sunday school picnic certainly was a failure both on July 5 and July 20. 1 wonder if we ought not to try it again and make it a go.
Rev. W. G. Holmberg and wife and also child made a short visit with us one morning, going up to Minnesota. Rev. Holmberg also called in Friday, July 23, going home to Concordia, Kan. Our friends, Contractor and Builder Chas. Carlson, Topeka, Kan., and P. O. Hedberg, wife and daughter oil magnate, from Ottumwa, Kan., made a short friendly call. It certainly is nice to be surprised in that way even if the best dress or suit is not on
Our older members seem to keep up, Mrs. B. Sandberg, I. Michaelson, N. Winquist and S. A. Nordholm. Our friends P. B. Miller and P. Weberg also are keeping up good in spite of the beat.
Have you not enjoyed the open air services started by David E. Anderson? We invite you to another one next Saturday night, July 31.
Sunday evening, July 18. we had the privilege to baptise 0. M. Meleen, Clarence Waldemer, Dorothy Johnson, Lorraine Peterson and Marian Turin. These and Mrs. 0. M. Meleen also Mrs. Bryan Weber- will be given the hand of fellowship of the church next Sunday night, August 1 at the communion service.
The prayer conference the second week in October will be our next great season of spiritual refreshing. Prepare for it, but in the meantime don't forget to have a prayer list and don't forget to work for salvation of souls.
We rejoice with our neighbor church in Arthur over the great success and the number of accessions they have had lately. They. have baptised 12. It is pleasing to know the kindness of the church toward its pastor, P. Lovene. They not only gave him the biggest Christmas present he has had in all the years of his ministry, but also gave him two months vacation to visit his aged mother in Sweden. Sunday, July 18, the church gave a farewell dinner at the church for brother Lovene. Honor to the Arthur church. At the writing of these lines brother Lovene is nearer Sweden than U. S. We wish him a happy journey and welcome back.
We were happy to see G. A. Teaquists down at the services Sunday evening, July 18. Hope that they can come down often.
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WHAT CHANGED THE OFFERING
A pastor was taking a missionary offering recently when he said, "I want each of you to give today as though you were putting your money right into the pierced hand of Jesus Christ." A lady came up afterward and said, "I was going to give a half dollar, but I did not do so." "Why did you not do it?" the preacher asked. "Do you think," replied the lady, "I would put a half dollar into His pierced hands?" I have ten dollars at home and I am going to give that."
If we were putting our money into the pierced hands of our Lord, the contributions would amount to millions, and the world would be evangelized in ten years.
-------------------------------------------------- Do you remember that our Swedish Baptist General conference supports a number of Gospel workers in Canada? Also workers in Montana, Utah, Michigan and other fields. The Bethel Institute with its teachers. The Mission secretary and the workers of the Standardet. They ask us to contribute to all these worthy objects with an amount equal to $2.50 per member. Next Sunday is the last chance that you will have to help the Lord in this great work. Don't forget to bring your contribution to Wm. Lindberg.
The pastor and wife are elected as delegates to the annual meeting of the Swedish Baptist conference in Kansas City, Mo., Aug. 25 - 29.
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Kiron, Iowa, July 27, 1926
E. J. Nordlander
News Print Kiron, Iowa
(Article in the Kiron Weekly News, April 14, 1950)
The Kiron High School News
Building Church Early Task of Kiron Community
The Chicago and N. W. Railroad decided to move from their location to the present town of Kiron. It was decided at the same time to move the church. The church, was moved in 1899, to a piece of land donated by the railroad which was greatly appreciated. A parsonage was built and the cost including the moving of the church, was two thousand dollars. A. P. Hanson was pastor during this time and led the church in the largest financial proceeding it had gone through.
At the annual business meeting in 1908, the question of building' a new church was brought up. The old church had been used thirty-two years and the congregation was growing so the members felt the need for a new church. It was decided to build the church if the sum of seven thousand dollars could be raised. Rev. Lagerquist,the pastor at this time, worked with the members and in a few months the entire sum had been pledged. It was decided to begin working on the church immediately. A committee was appointed with Rev. Lagerquist as designer and superintendent, J. E. Engberg as foremen, assistants; P. Johnson, John Erickson, C. E. Engberg, Nels O. Larson, Alfred Clauson and C. S. Johnson.
The old church was torn down and the new church, after a number of months, was completed at the cost of $10,765.54. The church was dedicated December 4- 13, 1908. The church also gathered; for their annual prayer Conference,and the 40th anniversary of the church was celeberated.
One of the outstanding events of the church's history was he fact that the Swedish Baptist General Conference of America met in Kiron. This was outstanding because it is very seldom that a church of this size has the conference. John Ring was the first pastor with a stated salary. He was responsible for doing much in the early work of the church.
Sunday School
The Kiron Baptist Sunday School was organized in the local school house.. C. J. Star was appointed superintendent. The school was dissolved in 1872, but it was later reorganized and has maintained an unbroken record since that time. The Swedish language was used until 1907, when the English language was adopted.
Young People's Society
There was no attempt to start a society of this kind until in 1889. The first president was P. W. Weberg; treasurer, Alfred Clauson; and secretary, Emily Swanson. They met on a specified night every week.
Library
On November 22, 1908, a committee of the Young People's Society and Rev. A. G. Lagerquist, met to discuss the library movement. The library board consisted of Rev. Lagerquist, Miss Florence Johnson, Miss Lillian Engberg, Miss Alice Sandberg, Edwin A. Johnson and Dr. W. A. Garner. Rules and regulations were made and it as decided to set aside two upper rooms in the church for the library. Miss Lillian Engberg was the first librarian.
Choir
The choir was fully organized on April 24, 1903. The choir has had an important part in all of the church's meetings. Some of the early choir members were Alfred Clauson, J. A. Engberg, Lillian Engberg and S. M. Sjogren. Mrs. Bryan Weberg is the present choir director.
At the monthly business meeting in March, 1943, it was approved of the congregation to remodel the main auditorium. Committees were appointed and under the leadership of J. A. Engberg, the work began. In 1949, the lower auditorium was remodeled and improved.
-By Genevieve Wilson, *Kiron High School*
(First printed in the 1938 Odebolt Chronicle.)
First Baptist Church of Kiron Has Library of 1800 Volumes
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Congregation Organized in 1869 With Seventeen Members
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The First Baptist church of Kiron was organized in August, 1869, with the following charter members: Nils Lindberg, Carl Peter Frodig, Hans Hallander, Ingemar Michaelson, Charles Johan Star, Anders Anderson, Nils Peter Erickson, James Anderson, Waldemar Peterson, Peter Carlson, John Hoaglund, Mrs. Lena Maria Beck, Mrs. Sara Frodig, Hadda Anderson Holmberg, Mrs. Sara Erickson, Mrs. Anna Hoaglund, and John A. Erickson. At the time of the organization, Carl Peter Frodig was installed as the pastor. Services were held in the Star school house which was located one and one-half miles south of the town. Services were held here until 1876. At that time a building was erected one mile east and one and one-fourth south at the cost of $1,800. In 1901, this building was moved to town. The present church was constructed in 1908 at a cost of over $10,000.
Pastors Who Served
Following are the pastors who have served the church: Carl Peter Frodig, Andrew Norelius, John Ring, L. J. Ahlestrom, Erick O. Olson, C. J. Chader, A. P. Hanson, John Johanson, A. Berglund, Gustaf Nyquist, A. E. Lysell, J. N. Soderstrom, A. Lagerquist, Anton Anderson, John Selander, N. N. Morten, C. I. Peterson, E. J. Nordlander, Reuben E. Nelson, Gordon Carlson and Walford Johnson, who is now the present minister.
The membership of the church now numbers approximately 200.
The church members are proud of a public library which contains approximately 1,800 volumes and is located on the second floor of the church. This library is under the supervision of the young people’s society of the church and is maintained by the society and through other donations. The library is open two nights of the week. The present librarian is Lillian Engberg.