The members of Saint Olaf Lutheran Church began the celebration of our first 100 years on Saturday, October 21, 2017 at St Olafs Kirke (Rock Church) with a gospel music program and cemetery visit, followed by refreshments at the Gathering Place.
We continued the 100-Year Celebration at St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Cranfills Gap on Sunday, October 22, 2017 with a Sunday morning service (Bishop Eric Gronberg delivered the sermon), followed by a catered lunch in the church basement and under awning on the grounds.
A Historic Marker was dedicated on the front lawn, and a Re-Dedication Service was held in the church sanctuary.
Worshiping and celebrating this anniversary in the same building where our founding family members worshiped brought deep meaning to this special event. Our roots run deep, many participants were joined by their children and grandchildren for the celebration.
The 100-Year Celebration Planning Committee members:
| • Phyllis Allen Rieser, Co-Chair | • Geneva Allen Finstad, Co-Chair |
| • Jeanne Hansen Bayless | • Patricia Rohne Forsythe |
| • Cindy Weise | • Darla Simmons Kinney |
| • Maranna Carlson Horn | • Gerald Nelson |
During the 100-Year Celebration, we introduced a detailed history book which illuminates the rich heritage of St. Olaf Lutheran Church in Cranfills Gap, HERITAGE OF FAITH.
Books are available for purchase for the low cost of $25 each. Ask at church, or e-mail saintolaflutheran@gmail.com for more information. Corrections to the book should be brought to attention of Darla Kinney at the email address above.
The Heritage of Faith Book Committee members:
| • Mark Wallace | • Jan Wallace |
| • Jeanne Hansen Bayless | • Phyllis Allen Rieser |
| • Charlene Bronstad Tergerson | • Darla Simmons Kinney |
| • Rita Blackman Hanson | • Geneva Allen Finstad |
Some of the donors to the 100-Year Celebration expense fund include:
- Debbie and Kenny Baird
- Renee Barner
- Jeanne Hansen Bayless
- Diann Coughron
- Guy and Geneva Finstad
- Tammy Henry
- Penny Hilton
- Maranna Carlson Horn
- Geraldine Jenson
- Gerald Nelson
- Wayne Rohne
- Elsie Carlson Phillips
- Ed and Phyllis Rieser
- St. Olaf Breakfast Club
- Ken Surley
During the 100-Year Celebration, we gratefully acknowledged all those who have shaped many lives through the years: our faithful pastors, the dedicated members of our church’s history, and the members today who continue to uphold the faith of our heritage.
May the members of Saint Olaf Lutheran church continue to accomplish their mission statement to WORSHIP, TEACH, NURTURE, and to SHARE THE LOVE OF CHRIST.