[Congressional Record Volume 142, Number 92 (Thursday, June 20, 1996)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1123]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        ZION EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY

                                 ______


                            HON. BART STUPAK

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 19, 1996

  Mr. STUPAK. Mr. Speaker, it is an honor for me to bring to the 
attention of the House of Representatives and the Nation that the Zion 
Evangelical Lutheran Church or Ironwood, MI, is celebrating its 
centennial anniversary on June 22, 1996. It was 100 years ago that 20 
Lutherans were drawn together by their common faith to form the Church 
of Ironwood, MI. Today, the congregation has nearly 600 dedicated 
members who are proudly celebrating the love and faith that has been 
shared within the congregation and the Ironwood community for the past 
century.
  In 1896, Pastor Michael Kivi was asked to lead the small 
congregation. He graciously accepted the offer and began his new job 
for a salary of $20 a month. Thirteen dedicated pastors have served the 
congregation since Pastor Kivi. Currently, Pastor Francis Strong leads 
the members in worship and fellowship.
  The congregation has been planning the anniversary festivities since 
1992. ``The History of the Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church,'' a 
concise history of the parish, was printed last fall. An original stage 
play was written for the celebration entitled ``Workers in the 
Vineyard.'' A centennial feast is being hosted on June 22 for members 
and friends of the congregation.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of all northern Michigan, and the entire 
Nation I would like to congratulate Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church on 
100 years of faith, love, and ministry.

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