On the evening of August 19, 1869, the Swedish Evangelical Bethany Lutheran Church was born. A colony of immigrants voiced their souls' need in establishing the church. The present original structure is now over one hundred and twenty four years old. For nearly one-hundred thirty years this colony of God's people has gathered to receive, praise and witness to God's saving Word in Jesus Christ. We revere our past and hold fast to the historic traditions of faith. However, we do not live in the past. In God's sunlight, the dazzling white shines afresh in the brilliance of living faith.We encourage family and personal devotions, Bible reading and prayer, provide Christian education, encourage our youth to continue in faith, strive for a spirit of inclusiveness in today's community, and seek out opportunities to serve.