Ipswich church celebrates 100th Anniversary

Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church celebrated the Ipswich church's centennial on Sunday, July 16.

The service was held in Zion's worship home in the Schriver Funeral Home.

Pastor Zachary Sippert, of Zion Lutheran and Redeemer Lutheran of Bowdle, led the service.

He chose Scripture readings looking at the Congregation's past, future and present.

The opening hymn, "Amazing Grace," highlighted their history. "The Grace of God got them through hardships," Pastor Sippert said.

Pastor Mark Tiefel of Middleton, Wis. was the guest speaker. His sermon was entitled "The Power Behind 100 Years." Pastor Tiefel is the grandson of Leland Grams, who was the Zion minister from 1954 to 1985.

Zion Lutheran Church members have had memories - good and difficult - through their 100 year history. We needed God through all those years, he said. God has made a home with the members through the last 100 years.

The reason for joy now is knowing God abides with the Zion members. "Rejoice and look ahead," Pastor Tiefel said, "a Savior is with you each day."

Those who attended the service continued their celebration with a dinner in the 4-H Building.

Zion Ev. Lutheran Church, affiliated with the Church of the Lutheran Confession (CLC), has services on Sundays at 9 a.m., May through October, and 11 a.m. November through April.