A 50 Year History of Prince of Peace Lutheran ChurchOn December 6th the congregational organization...

A 50 Year History of Prince of Peace

Lutheran Church

Loveland, Ohio

1962-2013

A 50 Year History of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church

1962

Rev. David P. Kruger, or “that young minister” to many Loveland residents, knocked on doors in the middle of 1962, looking for those who might be interested in establishing a congregation of the Lutheran Church in America.

On August 26, 1962, an interest meeting was held with the Rev. Albert Buhl, director of the Board of Home Missions, Ohio Synod, serving as the guest speaker. Prince of Peace Lutheran Church was selected as the tentative name for this new congregation whose first worship service was scheduled for 10:30 AM on September 23, 1962, at the Loveland-Miami Elementary “”School.

The morning of September 23rd found 64 people in attendance. Dr. Buhl was again present, this time to present a Pulpit Bible to the new congregation in memory of two Synod Presidents who had died in office.

On October 7th, the first Sunday Church School was held at 9:15 AM with an enrollment of 48.

On October 28, 1962, the congregation began worshiping in the old Presbyterian Church building on Third Street.

1963

The congregation began 1963 by declaring January 20th to be Charter Sunday. Pastor Jerry Miller, Christian Education Director for the Ohio Synod, was the guest preacher. As a first step in becoming part of the Lutheran Church in America, 38 persons signed the charter.

Others followed in signing the charter and, as a result, organization came on May 12, 1963. The new congregation officially became Prince of Peace Lutheran Church of the Lutheran Church in America. Fifty-three adults and sixty children were charter members. Bringing the message for the occasion was Dr. Herbert Veler, Ohio

To the Glory of God 1962-2013


Synod President. The first church council was elected. Pastor Kruger served as the first president of the congregation. The names of council members, along with those of the charter members, were entered in the parish register which was given to Prince of Peace by the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd Kenwood, Ohio. On May 21, 1963, Prince of Peace was received into the Ohio Synod at synod convention.

On August 15, 1963, a parcel of land located at the corner of Lebanon Road and West Loveland Avenue was purchased for $15,000.

Pastor Kruger was installed as the first pastor of Prince of Peace by the Rev. Alfred Updegraff, Dean of the Sou8thwest District, on September 22, 1963. Pastor Arthur Bauer of Kenwood assisted.

During 1963 the first Wednesday evening Lenten Services were conducted and the first Vacation Church School Was held during the month of August.

1964

A Building Fund Drive was initiated on February 28, 1964, under the direction of Mr. Alfred Kilmesz, Lutheran Laymen’s Movement Capital Funds Campaign Director. A total of $9,581 was pledged that day to be paid over a two-year period.

1120 Sunrise Drive became the parsonage. It was purchased on May 1.1964, for $14,000.

On November 21, 1964, the congregation traded meeting places with the Church of God. Prince of Peace congregation began worshiping in a $100-a-month rented storefront at the corner of East Loveland Avenue and Taylor Street, formerly used by the Loveland Church of God before they purchased the old Presbyterian Church Building. With this move, Prince of Peace gained individual classrooms for Sunday school and an optometrist as a “roommate”.



The Master Site Plan presented by Sullivan, Isaac and Sullivan, architects, as well as the Church Building Program was approved on December 20, 1964.

The first Confirmation Service was held on May 17, 1964 with eight youth being confirmed.

The senior Choir was organized by Ed Sternberg and was accompanied on the piano by Pat Mansfileld. Previously, hymns had been accompanied by Lynn Kruger.

1965

1965 was a year of building. On October 3, groundbreaking services were held, and on November 2 the construction contract was signed with Sharpe and Lawrence, General Contractors. Ray Shumway was the Building Committee Chairman.

During that year the first issue of “Tidings of Peace”, our church newsletter, was published.

The congregation enriched its worship by purchasing a used organ in February. The Senior Choir was now under the direction of Mrs. Lynn Kruger and accompanied by Pat Mansfield.

1966

1966 began on a positive note. Payment in full for the building site was made on January 17th.

A few months later the congregation found itself without a pastor. Pastor Kruger resigned on April 30th to accept a call to St. Luke’s Lutheran church, Stevensville, Michigan. Succeeding Pastor Kruger was the Rev. Dorsey Stebbins who was installed on December 11th, with the Rev. Dr. John Riling (Ohio Synod President) and Pastor Robert Berger of Roselawn Lutheran Church officiating.

The congregation held its first worship service in the new building on November 20, 1966.



Total indebtedness by the end of 1966 was $98,400, with an estimated property value of $115,000.

1967

On January 15, 1967, the church building was dedicated.

An alignment was formed with Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in mason On November 1, 1967. Pastor Stebbins served both congregations.

Doris Osborne became the church organist and choir director.

1968

1968 was a year of “togetherness” between the newly linked congregations. A joint Luther League was formed and Vacation Church School was a united effort.

On December 6th the congregational organization of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church was formed. It consisted of two “guilds” named Alpha and Rachel. Kay Napier was the first President. The LCW was officially chartered on April 3, 1969).

1969

The church was commended by the Loveland Beautification Committee for its lawn and flowers.

As the community began to grow, it became more and more apparent that a full-time pastor was needed to serve Prince of Peace.

1970

The alignment with Holy Trinity Lutheran Church was terminated. Pastor Stebbins returned to serve Prince of Peace full-time in March.

In June the church celebrated the 10th anniversary of Pastor Stebbins’ ordination.



1971

Pastor Stebbins pastorate ended on January 1, 1971.

Vice-Pastor Paul Schnur introduced the use of the Good Friday Tenebrae service. The first Easter Breakfast served by the men of our parish was welcomed by the women of our parish.

The congregation issued a call to Pastor Thomas R. Stroeh of Denton, Texas, on February 28th. He was installed on June 27th with Pastor David Scharf, Assistant to the Ohio Synod President, officiating.

1971 saw the reorganizing of a Junior-Senior High Youth Group, and formation of a church band called “The Peacemakers” and a six-week sharing.

In September the congregation approved the LCA-recommended “Confirmation Ministry” policy which provided for First Communion to be experienced in the 5th grade.

The first LCW-sponsored Family Advent Night was held.

For the first time, there was a midnight Christmas Eve Service of the Holy Communion in addition to the earlier Family Candlelight Service.

1972

On October 26, 1972, the parsonage at 1120 Sunrise Drive was sold for $18,500 and the parsonage at 1818 Vanderbilt Drive was bought for $34,500. The new parsonage was dedicated on December 17th. In November the Lutheran Church Women conducted their first Thankoffering Service. During 1972 fifth graders received their first communion.

The first Oktoberfest (family variety show) was presented to the congregation and community.



Senior High teenagers began to participate in the newly formed Loveland Inter-Church Youth organization which met for fellowship, Bible study and retreats.

1973

1973 completed the first decade of the ministry of Prince of Peace Church as an organized congregation. On May 13th the church celebrated its 10th anniversary with Pastor David Scharf, Assistant to the Ohio Synod President, preaching at the festival service.

Thursday morning Women’s Bible Study and Inter-Church Youth Breakfast began at Prince of Peace.

The Church’s Statement of Mission and Purpose was adopted.

1974

In 1974 a Wednesday Evening Bible Study and Men’s Monday morning breakfasts were held. Prince of Peace Servants (POPS) for junior high youth became active and the Christian Family Development Series became an annual winter occurrence.

1975

Members participated in a “Serendipity Experience” over a six-week period.

Our ministry of intercessions was expanded when a Prayer Chain was begun.

1976

In June 1976, the congregation shared in the celebration o the 10th anniversary of Pastor Stroeh’s ordination.

On October 3rd the congregation consolidated all its loans ($108,000) through a mortgage with Aid Association for Lutherans.

A new Conn organ was dedicated oh November 21, 1976.



As the year closed, the church no longer needed Program Support from the LCA and we met our Synod Benevolence goal (and have every year since).

1977

1977 saw several beginnings: participation in the 5C Food Co-op began; the first Koinonia Group began meeting; the Seniorettes became a group; the men of the church met for Bible study and dartball; and families held their first summer camp out at the Harry Hill farm.

Our ministry was enhanced by the summer internship of Seminarian John Raitz who worked especially with our youth and the youth of Westover Village apartments.

December 4th marked the beginning of two Sunday morning services, Kathy Helmintoller playing at the early (8:30) service.

1978

It was in 1978 that some changes were made in the interior of our building. Murals were painted on our walls by the Senior High Youth. The Pastor’s Study was moved from its original location in order to use the adjacent storeroom for a secretary’s office. A Building Committee was formed to plan space needed to house our expanded congregation.

The Communications Committee was added. A Cherub Choir was organized.

On May 14th the congregation celebrated its 15th year in the Lutheran Church in America. Pastor Dorsey Stebbins was the guest preacher.

1979

On February 4, 1979, the congregation used the green Lutheran Book of Worship for the first time.



Light suppers were served before Wednesday evening Lenten services for the first time.

A Capital Fund kick-off dinner in May was held for proposed building expansion. Dr. Kenneth H. Sauer, Ohio Synod Bishop, was guest speaker.

Adult Sunday Church School was conducted during the summer months. In the fall an ambitious two-year Word and Witness course was started.

Our parish employed its first Parish Secretary, Mary Lou Shumway, in September.

1980

1980 was a year for “adding on”. On January 27th a $20,000 loan from the Ohio Synod and a $30,000 construction loan were secured. It was on March 16th that ground was broken for the new education wing. Dan Noth of Noth and Myers Construction Company and volunteer laborers from the congregation completed the addition under the direction of Wayne Smearsoll, Building Committee Chairman. Craig Rambo of Collaborative One was the architect.

We dedicated the addition on September 7th. Present were Bishop Sauer, Assistant to the Bishop Pastor Alfred Buehner, and Dr. Robert H. Secrist, Deployed Staff Person for the Division for Mission in North America of the LCA.

A Sunday evening of Prayer for Healing was reestablished on a monthly basis and a weekly Prayer and Praise service was begun.

A monthly ministry to the Loveland Health Care Center was started.

One of the year’s most ambitious endeavors was to sponsor the Phady Sinantha family from Laos, jointly with St. Columban Roman Catholic Church and Loveland United Methodist.

1981



In June, 1981, the congregation celebrated the 15th anniversary of Pastor’ Stroeh’s ordination.

Several groups were organized or reorganized. A men’s breakfast/Bible Study and an Adult Singles Group were begun. A “shepherding” program for new members was initiated. Thursday evening “equipping” seminars were introduced.

Children’s services (written and ministered by Jane Hoppe) were offered during Lenten worship. Cluster meetings were held in various communities to bring together people in our ever-widening parish. An adult social group began offering monthly activities. Our senior high youth, calling themselves “The Agapes”, went to the national LCA Youth Gathering at Purdue University and established a weekly study and fellowship group during the summer.

In September we started offering Holy Communion at both services not only on the first Sunday, but also on the third Sunday of the month.

A record $3,446 was spent by the Pastor’s Discretionary Fund to help emergency needs of members and community people.

1982

In 1982 our lay assistants were commissioned to call on the sick and shut-in and administer Communion to them.

Two new ministries were initiated by the Social Ministry Committee under the direction of Pastor Dorsey and Betty Stebbins. The first was a ministry t MacArthur Park Apartments and the second was a ministry to the Community Correctional Institute.

The ministry to Loveland Health Care Center expanded to include weekly ministry as well as the monthly worship.

A Committee on Our Future Ministry was established in preparation for the 20th Anniversary of the congregation and the establishment of goals for the future of our church.



Worship attendance at our Christmas Eve Services totaled more than 300 for the first time in history.

At the close of the year we had an indebtedness of $96,609 and a total property valuation of $515,000.

1983

The MacArthur Park Bible Study began in March. A grant was approved by the Ohio Synod Special Ministries Unit to fund a summer program at the apartment complex.

Easter worship attendance surpassed 300 for the first time in our history. On Sunday, May 8th, a new Baldwin Hamilton piano was dedicated for use in the sanctuary.

On Sunday, May 15th, the parish celebrated its 20th Anniversary as an organized congregation with Pastor David Kruger and Pastor Dorsey Stebbins participating.

1984

1984 was a year of growth and expansion in ministry. Caring Christian Singles and the Mothers Group were added to our ministry. AQ clown ministry was initiated.

Other accomplishments this year included: adding a Sunday Church School class for younger pre-schoolers; paid off the mortgage we had with the Ohio Synod for our last expansion; purchased interlocking chairs for our sanctuary.

1985

Deborah D. Steed was called to serve as our Assistant Pastor, beginning September 1st. The former youth “Rainbow Room” was renovated for use as her office.



A puppet ministry, the CPR’s (Christian Puppet Revelers) was inaugurated. Twelve senior high students attended the Purdue Youth Gathering of the Lutheran Church in America. A Nurses Support Group was started. A new copier and phone system was purchased for the office. Speakers were installed in the hallway and nursery to allow the services in the sanctuary to be heard in those areas. The church parking lot was enlarged and repaved.

1986

We celebrated Pastor Tom’s 15/20 anniversary (15th year at Prince of Peace and 20th year of ordination) and presented him and Joan with a trip to the Holy Land.

The congregation enjoyed the return of the family outing in the form of a church picnic which was held at Lake Isabella. We began having “Diaspora Dinners” (area get-togethers) on a quarterly basis in the homes of parishioners. The Pre-Teens, a 5th/6th grade youth group, was begun.

1987

This year the Future Planning Committee met with Lutheran Church in America Church Building Consultant Richard Linde to discuss our space needs and conducted survey of congregational opinions regarding space priorities; We observed and participated in the closing out of the Lutheran Church in America (specifically our Ohio Synod) and the restructuring involved in the organizing of the new Evangelical Lutheran Church in America; A stress support group began meeting regularly; We enjoyed the hovering of 34 wing-spread angels in the Sunday Church School Christmas pageant.

1989

At its annual meeting in January the congregation voted that “to meet a present need for a larger and more functional worship area, and to provide space needs of the future growth which we believe God will lead us to experience, a building committee should be



established to plan the construction of a new sanctuary, enabling our present sanctuary to be used for needed educational and multi-use space.

In April we began a Building Fund Campaign under the direction of Lutheran Laity Movement Resident Director Charlie Stief. The Venture goal was exceeded with more than $152,000 pledged toward “Building for the Lord”.

On May 15th, the congregation gathered to enjoy the celebration of the 25th anniversary of Prince of Peace. Bishop Kenneth H. Sauer of the Southern Ohio Synod preached at both Sunday morning services.

In June, Gerald Harley of C.G. Harman & Associates, Inc. was employed as our architect for the building project.

The “Texas Gang”, a group of high school youth, attended the National ELCA Youth Gathering in San Antonio in July.

In November the congregation approved the architect’s schematic design for a sanctuary to seat 250 persons, a narthex, three offices, a parlor/library/choir rehearsal room, wet and dry sacristies, and two handicapped restrooms. The library and original entryway for the present building would be renovated for location of a new kitchen wit serving window to the new fellowship/education/multi-use sp-ace y the present sanctuary when vacated. The new space was to be a minimum of 6600 square feet.

1989

The congregation experienced its first attempt at a new fiscal/programming year. The stewardship campaign was held in March. The annual congregational meeting was held in May. The



financial year concluded April 30th, the programming year concluded May 31.

In August, two important congregational meetings were held: 1) to approve the hiring of F.A. Fibbe Company of Cincinnati as our contractor for the building project and authorize the church council to borrow $359,000 from the Chase Manhattan Bank for a construction loan under the terms an conditions of the Credit Agreement between the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Loan Fund and Chase Manhattan; 2) to extend the call to Deborah D. Steed to continue serving as our Assistant Pastor without limitation of term starting September 1.

The Building Committee (chaired by Dave Merry, who succeeded Craig Rasmussen) was busy with a heavy schedule of meetings with Jerry Harley, the architect. Other related sub-committees and their chairpersons were: Commitments Progress (Bob Larson), Furnishings (Bob Reese, who succeeded Karen Waple), Finance (Rich DeJarnett), Special Events (Ray Shumway) and construction (Charles Ford). The furnishings sub-committee employed the William Shackle Company to design the chancel furnishings for the new sanctuary.

Groundbreaking for our new construction was held on Sunday, September 10th.

A Congregational Life Committee was form by the Church Council. Stewardship and Finance were joined as one committee.

1990

The congregation met in January to rescind the new fiscal year and reinstate the regular calendar year (January through December) for our financial contributions and parish budget. The Church Council was authorized to execute the long-term mortgage (20 year) for our newly expanded building with Aid Association for Lutherans, in the amount of $429,000.



The dedication of the cornerstone for the new sanctuary was held on the Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany, February 4th. Donated by the Tufts-Schildmeyer Funeral Homes, Inc., the cornerstone has this inscription:

“To the glory of God Prince of Peace Lutheran Church A.D. 1990”

The congregation held its first service in the new sanctuary on May 13th, and dedicated it on September 9th. Pastor Dwight Hedrick, Assistant to the Bishop of the Southern Ohio Synod was the guest preacher at the dedication.

Jerry Seminatore, student at the Conservatory of Music, University of Cincinnati, was employed as our part-time Senior Choir Director.

Kathy Helmintoller, one of our organists for many years, retired and was recognized for her dedicated service to the church.

1991

We began sponsoring the ministries of Bob and LaVerta Stewart in Papua New Guinea.

A group of Senior High Youth attended the ELCA National Youth Gathering in Dallas in July.

We entered into a relationship with our new partner congregation in Conow, Germany. Pastor Tom, Joan and their family visited the congregation (in what was once East Germany).

The new stained glass windows were designed and installed y the Kessler Studios of Loveland.

For the first time we had three Christmas Eve Services.

1992

The church purchased the Wurlitzer C400 Classical Console Organ for the sanctuary.



Largely through the efforts of Judy Scovanner, The Parish Songbook was produced to supplement the Lutheran Book of Worship.

Mary Lou Shumway was brought to full-time employment as our parish secretary.

A weekend future planning process was held in February using the theme, “Leaping Together in Faith”. One of the needs that emerged significantly was that of doing more outreach into the community. A ministry to the subsidized apartments was developed from this planning process.

The congregation had a surprise celebration of Doris Osborne’s 25 years of service as our church organist.

A Future Space Needs Committee was formed to explore external and internal needs for the years ahead.

The Stephen Ministry began its training program.

Pastor Steed’s 10th anniversary of ordination was celebrated during the Sunday services on August 16th and at a special dinner that evening.

A Children’s Alternative Worship Activity under the direction of Hildi Korse began in the spring for the 11:00 AM service.

With the addition of a 5 PM Saturday service, organist responsibilities began to be shared by Doris Osborne, Jo Ford, Dewey Kuhn and Marjorie Grimm. Aaron Smith was hired as a part-time Music Coordinator. Dewey became our Senior Choir Director.

A new two-sided lighted church sign was installed on the corner of our property.

We were blessed with a fully-functioning church library thanks to the work of Julie Kuhn and Ruth Strader.

The first Women’s Retreat was held in the fall.



Mark Woodruff, our excellent wood craftsman, added to the credence table and ushers’ table he made by also building a memorial book stand and making new comunion trays.

1993

Pastor Steed began serving full-tine.

The Women of the ELCA was formed.

The Children’s Alternative Worship Activity was offered at 8:30 AM as well as at 11:00 AM services.

A Young People’s Bible Study began to be offered, led by Russ Daniels.

A new Kinship Group began meeting on Monday nights.

The congregation voted to proceed with steps to procure the adjacent property owned by Joe Bohrer (on West Loveland Avenue).

The first Easter Vigil was held on April 10th.

In May, the church celebrated its 30th anniversary as a congregation of the Lutheran Church

1994

Karen Johnson began working part-tine as ministries coordinator in January.

The Mutual Ministry Committee was forced to increase healthy communication between congregation and staff. This committee, which meets bimonthly, is comprised of the pastors, music director, ministries coordinator, and six lay persons, serving staggered three year terms.

1995



We broke ground in August for the new education wing which would include an atrium, two nurseries, offices, music facilities, and classrooms.

Laura Moore was hired to fill the position of Parish Secretary upon Jean Chaney’s leaving.

1996

The Shalom Initiative opened its office in the old education wing, with director Brian Shircliff and parish nurse Wendy Hess.

Sue Stover was hired to fill the position of Parish Secretary when Laura left to be a full time mother.

In May we celebrated the 30th anniversary of Pastor Tom’s ordination and his 25th year at Prince of Peace.

In August we dedicated the new education wing.

A grand piano was purchased to add to our worship experience.

1997

Karen Johnson was hired full-time as ministries coordinator in February as we said our good-byes to Sue Stover.

Marsha Bozman was hired in March as our Parish Secretary.

During the Easter season a Wednesday evening service was added, using the Holden Evening Prayer liturgy.

A fourth Christmas Eve service was added to include 4:00, 6:00, 9:00 and 11:00 PM. There were 811 worshipers in attendance.

By the end of 1997 we had reached a baptized membership of over 900.

1998



Our phone system was upgraded to Centrex lines and two additional lines were added.

Thanks to a large donation of computers, all staff computers were standardized and upgraded. A network server and internal messaging system were installed.

The “Confirmation Ministry” policy which provides for First Communion was changed to welcome 3rd graders to the meal.

Remodeling of the Fellowship hall was started in December allowing us useable space for two more Sunday school rooms.

Another Stephen Ministry class was started in the fall. Upon completion we will have 17 trained Stephen Ministers, including 3 trained leaders.

The year ended with 1002 baptized and 668 confirmed members. Thanks be to God for the growth.

Linda Daigle was hired to replace Brian Schircliff as Shalom Facilitator.

Aaron Smith resigned as Director of Music effective January 1.

Deb Hauer was hired as Choir Director.

We hired consultant, Rev. Carl Beck, from Church First, to lead us through a year-long Stewardship Education program.

In February, we contracted t have Dr. David Anderson and Rev. Paul Hill to lead us on a weekend program called Hand-in-Hand which focused on youth and family ministries.

The newly initiated Building Committee hired Architect, Bob Dorn to develop new plans for a Parish Life Center. Under consideration are day care and before and after school care.

Toby Lyke was hired part time as our Music Director effective Aug. 16, 1999.



Under the direction of Robin Stevenson, the children’s choir, “Joyful Noise” has grown to over 30 children from ages 8 to 12.

The “Family Choir” had its debut at the 5:00pm services on Oct. 16th.

Spiritual Growth Groups were started under the direction of the Congregational Care Committee.

2000

January 23rd was the KICKOFF of our Capital Building Campaign to build a Parish Life Center.

In order to be more welcoming, the position of Volunteer Narthex receptionist was created in February.

On Saturday, August 19, Pastor John Stroeh, a son of the congregation, was ordained a Prince of Peace.

On the weekend of August 26-28, the congregation celebrated the 15th Anniversary of Pastor Steed’s ministry here by holding a “Hoe Down” at St. Margaret of York.

September 6 we opened the doors to POP Kids School-our pre-school, before and after school and Mothers Day Out Program. Krista Shinn was hired as the director.

An additional morning worship service, 9:30am, was started on Sept 11 to alleviate the crowding at the 11:00am service. This service runs concurrent with Sunday School.

November 5 ground breaking took place for our Parish Life Center.

2001

March 12th a Call Committee was formed to find an Associate Pastor. After 15 ½ years of faithful service as Co-Pastor, April 1st was Pastor Deborah D. Steed’s last service at Prince of Peace as she and her family moved to Greenville, SC.



On April 21st we celebrated Pastor Tom’s 30th year at Prince of Peace/35 years in ministry at an “Around the World Anniversary Party” held in his honor.

May 14 – Opening of the LIFE (Loveland Inter-Faith Effort) Food Pantry.

July 1st, Rev. M. Suzanne Larson was extended a call t be the Associate Pastor at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. She has accepted the call and begins her ministry November 1, 2001.

September 1, Kathy Haugen was hired as Youth Ministries Coordinator. A major part of her focus will be our Catechism program.

On September 7, our preschool director, Krista Shinn, resigned. Tina Blackburn was hired and began her ministry among us on September 24.

In response to the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon on September 11, 2001, we began two (2) additional services on Wednesdays: Mid Day Prayer Service and Evening Prayer.

2002

On January 27th, we dedicated the Parish Life Center. The weekend began with a square dance held on Saturday night the 26th. With the opening of the PLC, we created the “Officers of the Keys”. These men well take on the responsibility of locking up the church each night - all 15 doors!

On March 5th, we installed “Zoomtown” giving us fast speed INTERNET access and email capability for all staff members.

Pastor Suzanne began the small group ministry program in March by setting up home visits with groups of members to share information about small groups. The kickoff for the actual small groups was held on Sept. 29th with five small groups active.



October – Pastor Suzanne completed 15 home gatherings held around the parish since the spring.

May- Visioning Task Force formed to project ahead five years.

Discussions were held throughout the summer to evaluate our music program. Following many meetings and much discussion it was affirmed that a “blended style” of music was desired and would be maintained at each service.

On August 17th we said good-by to Jeff and Susie Lyke who helped lead the musical portion of worship for the past two years.

2003

May 10/11 Receptions were held (after each weekend service) for Pastor Suzanne and Nick Morelli who were married May 3.

May 18 – A Celebration Luncheon was held for the 40th anniversary of the organization of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church with former Pastors David Kruger and Dorsey Stebbins present.

July 23 - September 3 Pastor Tom sabbatical, focusing on: “How does a deepened spirituality show itself in a Christian’s growing commitment to ministry to the needs of the local and global community?”

2004

January 18 – Celebration of Karen Johnson’s 10th anniversary as Ministries Coordinator

March 18 – Beginning of the Telecare Ministry (phone contacts with every household of the congregation) 4 times during the year.

April 11 – Easter Sunday- overflow seating in the Atrium was offered to worshipers who could see and hear the services via video feed.

September – Seminarian Dona Johnson began contextual education at Prince of Peace.



November 21 – Pastor Suzanne Morelli’s last Sunday with us. Pastor Suzanne moved to Pennsylvania.

December 1 – Pastor Kenneth Soderlund began his ministry as interim Associate Pastor.

2005

February 9 – First Ash Wednesday noon service

June – Kathy Haugen stepped down as Youth Ministry Coordinator and is succeeded by Pam McIntyre (Catechetics Coordinator) and Kim Donaldson (High School Youth Coordinator)

November 13 – Pastor Tom’s last Sunday before retirement. Pastor Ken Soderlund began as Interim Lead Pastor.

November – First International Fair showcasing Fair Trade gifts and alternative giving ideas i.e. the Heifer project or Lutheran World Relief

December 1 – Pastor Cathleen Thompson began as interim Associate Pastor.

2006

March 12 – Pastor Jonathan was installed as Lead Pastor.

July 18 – New Evangelical Lutheran Worship Hymnal was introduced to POP

July – First email directory published

2007

February - first POP Adult Mission Trip to Biloxi Mississippi to work with the Lutheran Disaster Response Organization for Hurricane Katrina Relief. 27 adults participated

March 24 – Pastor Grant Eckhart was installed as our Associate Pastor.



March - we began to work in ministry with First Lutheran Church

April – first Friendship Weekend. Members were encouraged to extend an invitation to a friend or neighbor.

May - a Leadership Structure Task Force was formed to evaluate the current committee structure of POP

August – Pastor Ken Soderlund became our Director of Sr. Ministries

August – Property on Durango Dr was purchased

POP hosted a Youth and Family Institute “Faith Formation Training” for the purpose of equipping parents and youth leaders with skills to pass on faith effectively

September – the Long Range Planning Committee presented POP’s new vision for our future which was “Christ is transforming lives at POP thru a vision of more grace, more hope, more depth and more growth”

October –POP partnered with Northstar Vineyard Church in the Solomon Program which helps under-resourced individuals and families release from a cycle of poverty.

October – the discipleship tool Lifeshapes was introduced

2008

January – Dona Johnson instructed a five week journey called Reclaiming “Lutheran”. What does it mean to be Christian and Lutheran?



The congregation took the necessary steps for demolition of the corner house at South Lebanon and Durango, allowing us to expand our parking lot and future building.

February – Kay Napier was tapped “Loveland Valentine Lady”

Kim Donaldson resigned as our Director of Youth Ministries as she prepared to move to Boston.

POP began aiding First Lutheran Church Cincinnati. We began partnering with them to keep them open and alive in the downtown community.

October – POP held its first Trunk or Treat as an alternative to traditional Halloween parties. Members provide treats from the trunks of their cars in the parking lot at POP.

2009

Toby Lyke announced his existing Loveland Music Press (LMP), with local partner Nelson Everhart that published much of the music used by POP. Our contributing musicians are Jeff Lyke, Susie Lyke, Toby Lyke, Robyn Stevenson and Janet Scott. Loveland Music Press records was added making this company capable of producing CD’s and downloadable music.

December - Pastor Grant solicited POP members to participate in the Solomon program that would pair a POP mentor with a section 8 family in Loveland. The program would run from Feb- July. The mentor would offer experience and friendship with specific goals.

2010

February- POP participated in the “FREE” Lenten journey along with many other churches in the Greater Cincinnati Area.



February- POP participated in a partnership with First Lutheran Church in Over-the-Rhine by collecting clothing and personal items for their clothing closet.

June-Mary Ellen Helms accepted the full-time position of the newly created Youth and Family Ministries Director. Mary Ellen Helms planned the first independently created youth mission trip to Rincon, Ga. She contacted numerous ministries and custom-planned the mission trip to fit the gifts and talents of the youth.

August- First “Back to School Fair” sponsored by the LIFE Food Pantry and the Loveland Initiative. The Fair provided school supplies, sweat shirts, haircuts and back packs for students and informational booths for the students and parents.

September- First POP Adult Mission Trip to Red Bird Mission in Kentucky. POP Kids Pre-School celebrated its 10th Anniversary.

December- POP Sunday School sponsored the “Advent Conspiracy Program” emphasizing the true meaning of the Advent Season. The Sunday School students raised funds for Living Waters International to bring fresh drinking water to those in need.

2011

January- POP participated in the all congregation journey – “Covenant and Kingdom” which are the two mega-themes in the Bible. The journey provided tools to help members more readily read and engage in the Bible.

May- The new Building Committee was assembled to investigate the possibility of another building expansion.

June- POP began a partnership with Roselawn Lutheran Church.

September-Congregation launched the concept of Missional Communities. Karen Johnson retired from the position of Director of Ministry Support after 17+ years of service. Karen Skarda accepted the position of Director of Ministry. Business Manager, Sue McIlvoy’s hours were increased from 18 to 30 hours/week. Church Secretary, Marsha Bozman’s hours were



decreased from 37.5 to 20 hours/week. VSWC was chosen by the Building Committee to be the architect for the building project and to formulate the master plan. VSWC holds a Visioning Day to assess facility needs with ministry leaders and the congregation.

December- Congregation voted to hire RSI to conduct a capital campaign to determine POP’s ability to raise funds for the facilities and renovation

2012

February- bold. together. in Christ Capital Campaign began. Cary Rohrer was hired as the POP Communications Director.

March- POP began monthly “Visioning Gatherings” to examine ways for POP to grow in Discipleship.April- Commitment Sunday for the bold. together. In Christ Capital Campaign and invitation for the launching of five Missional Communities. Online scheduling for volunteers serving in worship was launched.

June- New POP church logo design is unveiled.

July- POP hosts Amazing Grace Day Camp for Roselawn Lutheran Church.

December- Pastor Grant Eckhart announces resignation and his new call to campus ministryat Ohio State University.A call committee was approved by council to search for a new Associate Pastor.

2013

A celebration of Pastor Grant’s ministry at POP and supporting his move to OSU and Campus Ministry took place on Sunday, January 27.

Missional Communities that were spearheaded in 2012 began forming and meeting. These groups included: More Than Paws, Families Matter, connet4, The Supper Club, Zoe, and Vamonos.



A 50th Anniversary Committee was appointed by Council President, Kathy Weimer.

A new method of requesting prayer petitions for the Pop Prayer Chain using Constant Contact using the email address [email protected] Constant Contact gave members the ability to select which types of email communications they wished to receive from POP.

Former POP Pastor Tom Stroeh wrote a daily Lenten devotional that detailed his many experiences as Pastor at POP. The congregation was invited to remember some of POP’s past history by reading Pastor Tom’s book called “Lenten Reflections, Meditations, based on our history of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church”.

April 14 POP held a Special Congregational Meeting to approve the final loan amount then gathered outside for the Groundbreaking Ceremony for our building expansion project.

In the summer of 2013 we launched a pilot program of the ELCA called Stories Matter, in which we will look at the biblical narrative and ask the question, “Which Bible Story best relates to our story at POP?”

On May 19 we voted unanimously to extend a call to Pastor Lorne Hlad to be our new Associate Pastor. Pastor Lorne was installed on July 27.

The congregation held a retirement celebration luncheon for Pastor Ken Soderlund on Sunday, September 1, following the 10:30am service.

“Godspell” was performed in September in honor of the 50th anniversary of the congregation. A cast of 10 talented young people took us through the Gospel of Matthew in parables and songs.

POP held a dinner gala evening celebrating the congregation’s 50th anniversary on November 2. The festivities included memories of our last fifty years, special music and entertainment (including a humorous skit put on by our former and present pastors), and dancing.


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The New Prince of Peace Logo in 2013



Celebrating 50 Years


A 50 Year History of Prince of Peace Lutheran ChurchOn December 6th the congregational organization...

Documents

Transcript of A 50 Year History of Prince of Peace Lutheran ChurchOn December 6th the congregational organization...