Anniversary draft #4

1917 - 2017 Commemorative Anniversary History

Peace Lutheran Church, Scranton 100 Years Young

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Cover Photo: The 1923 Conď„Žirmation Class of Peace Lutheran Church Pictured are two of the three girls: Martha Leja, Emma Holtzman, Anna Frommert Rev. Henry Camin, Fred Schack, and John Korban

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This history is dedicated to the blessed and many saints who have gone before, and to the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ - who makes all things possible.

Thanks to all in the congregation who gave their time, prooď„Žing skills, insight and remembrance that made this historical account possible. Also thanks to Ky Betts for several beautiful illustrations that decorate these pages.

This history of Peace Lutheran Church does not pretend in the least to be complete in its nature. Please forgive any oversight of any individual or event that is not mentioned, or even inaccurately portrayed . No oď„Žfense was intended.

- Rev. Kristian Bjornstad General Editor

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This book of the deeds of the Lord in the midst of His people is dedicated to all the saints who from their labors now rest.

"For All the Saints Who from Their Labors Rest"

by William W. How, 1823-1897

1. For all the saints who from their labors rest,

5. And when the fight is fierce, the warfare long,

Who Thee by faith before the world confess,

Steals on the ear the distant triumph song,

Thy name, O Jesus, be forever blest,

And hearts are brave again, and arms are strong.

Alleluia! Alleluia!

Alleluia! Alleluia!

2. Thou wast their Rock, their Fortress, and their Might;

6. But, lo, there breaks a yet more glorious day;

Thou, Lord, their Captain in the well-fought fight;

The saints triumphant rise in bright array;

Thou, in the darkness drear, their one true Light.

The King of Glory passes on His way.

Alleluia! Alleluia!

Alleluia! Alleluia!

3. Oh, may Thy soldiers, faithful, true and bold,

7. From earth's wide bounds, from ocean's farthest coast,

Fight as the saints who nobly fought of old

Through gates of pearl streams in the countless host,

And win with them the victor's crown of gold.

Singing to Father, Son, and Holy Ghost,

Alleluia! Alleluia

Alleluia! Alleluia!

4. O blest communion, fellowship divine,

8. The golden evening brightens in the west;

We feebly struggle, they in glory shine;

Soon, soon, to faithful warriors cometh rest.

Yet all are one in Thee, for all are Thine.

Sweet is the calm of Paradise the blest.

Alleluia! Alleluia!

Alleluia! Alleluia!

Hymn #463 The Lutheran Hymnal Text: Heb. 12:1 3

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"O my people, hear my teaching; listen to the words of my mouth.

I will open my mouth in parables, I will utter hidden things, things from of old what we have heard and known, what our fathers have told us.

We will not hide them from their children; we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has done."

Psalm 78:1-4

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Introduction Witnessing A Journey of Faith and Blessing The year of our Lord, 2017, is a year of several important anniversaries for the family of God that is called Peace Lutheran Church. + It is the 100th Anniversary of our Peace Lutheran Congregation. + It is the 10th Anniversary of our church school, The Lutheran Academy, Scranton. + Finally, it is the 500th Anniversary of the Lutheran Reformation.

We take this opportunity to sing the praise of our Triune God: God the Father who creates and preserves us, His Son Jesus Christ our Redeemer, and the Holy Spirit who sanctifies us and gives us faith. We take this opportunity to understand ourselves as a congregation and our time on earth as a tiny - but exceedingly important - chapter of God’s plan of salvation for all people.

We remember that we are rooted in a great historical faith - not an isolated people and religion of today only.

We give thanks that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses who give us courage for the daily fight of faith.

We revel in the victory of God over sin, death and the devil that ends in eternal life for all His children. This victory is centered in the life, death, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Soli Deo Gloria

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GENERAL COMMENTS: A HISTORICAL, COMMUNITY AND THEOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE Peace Lutheran Church is a congregation of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod, a Christian denomination that traces its doctrine and practice back to the Lutheran Reformation. This Lutheran Reformation is seen to have had its birth on October 31, 1517 when an Augustinian monk named Martin Luther posted a set of 95 Theses on the Wittenberg University chapel door. These points of discussion concerned the abuses of the Roman Catholic Church at the time, and they sparked a whole movement whose aim was to reform the church. Unfortunately, although many reforms were eventually implemented in the Roman Catholic church, the movement eventually resulted in its splintering, as growing divisions over theology and church practice were not able to be resolved.

Standing in the confession of historic Lutheranism, Peace Lutheran Church is bold to proclaim the truths of: 1. Grace Alone 2. Faith Alone 3. Scripture Alone Being a Lutheran church in a largely (90% or more) Roman Catholic community in Illustration by parishioner, Ky Betts Scranton, has always been a unique experience - especially in days gone by. Being in some isolation from the rest of the Christian church, Lutherans from different congregations in our community held common worship and social events. Our congregation had strong involvements with pan-Lutheran organizations such as the Association of Lutheran Friends and Aid Association for Lutherans, and the Walther League. Lutherans in our community were proud of their faith and loved to be and work together even though each congregation had its own God given character and unique gifts. In more recent times it seems that relationships with other Lutherans have fallen into disrepair, perhaps mostly due to a weakening of our congregations in general to the point where they are prone to focusing on themselves - to the neglect of the community at large. As well, contributing to this has been the widening of theological and church practice differences between the congregations of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (the other major Lutheran denomination represented in our nation and community.)

As we give thanks for how God has blessed us for the past 100 years, we do look forward to the future! Peace Lutheran Church, as one of the most active and young congregations in our community, has the opportunity to raise a clear and profound voice for the true Christian Gospel in a plethora of vague, misled, pluralistic and antagonistic voices. If there was ever a time for the church to be strong, it is today, tomorrow, and for the foreseeable future. We are most incredibly the temple of the Holy Spirit, bringing Good News of Christ crucified for sinners - to a dying world.

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Chapter 1: Timeline of Historical Events

1895: Immanuel Lutheran Established: German and Polish immigrants streamed into the rich coal-producing valley from the Polish district of Suwalki in the late 19th century. As there was no Lutheran church conducted in the Polish language, they founded Immanuel Lutheran Church in the Providence village section of the city of Scranton.

These new immigrants were of hardy stock, making the long journey and then accomplishing the difficult work in the mines in Scranton. Steeped in their faith, they built their church in 1898. Within a very few years they had to expand its dimensions to accomodate worship with their new members.

Their second pastor, Rev. Sattelmeier, worked exceedingly hard and was much loved by the congregation. He established a day school in the church basement which eventually grew to 95 students! Rev. Adolf Dasler was called to Immanuel shortly after Rev. Sattelmeier left in 1911.

The Marvine Coal Breaker where many church members worked.

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December 31, 1916: Peace Lutheran Church is born: It was at the house of Mr. John Schweitzer at 610 Florin St. (still in existence) that the 14 charter members of Peace gathered together with Rev. Adolf Dasler in worship and dedicated themselves to starting a new church. It had been several weeks since Rev. Dasler had resigned his pastorate at Immanuel after some disagreement. At a Dec. 16, 1916 congregational meeting he and these families separated themselves from the Immanuel congregation.

How and why did the members of Immanuel end up in division and Peace Lutheran come to be?

There were several different (vague) stories that a few of the older members of the Peace congregation had, but nothing has ever been found written down. In the end only one of those stories corroborates with the account of the 1950 historical annals of Immanuel itself: The steady growth and peaceful progress of Immanuel was disrupted by Rev. Dasler’s sudden resignation on November 7, 1916. Some members of the congregation, together with the pastor, were involved in a business adventure, which was not successful, and was the cause of a split in the congregation.

The entire matter went before the president of our Synod, the Rev. Mr. Verwiebe, who came to Scranton for a special meeting of our congregation, held on December 16, 1916. At that meeting the main body of the congregation voted to extend a call to Rev. F. Sattelmeier. The small minority left the church with the pastor and organized Peace Lutheran Church on North Main Ave. - Immanuel Lutheran's 55th Anniversary History book.

January 7, 1917: First official church service.

It was held at the neighborhood Welsh Congregational Church.

The following week Sunday School was begun.

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The back story of the bad business deal is full of intrigue. The legend goes that there was a certain German scientist who had a recipe for some kind of medicinal elixir that promised big returns on an investment if it was manufactured. The church, under the encouragement of Rev. Dasler, evidently gave some kind of money purse. However, this opportunitistic German left for Germany and was never heard from again!

Another source indicated that further conflict in the congregation came about when Polish speaking members insisted that Confirmation instruction was to be in Polish. That didn't sit well with the German speakers. Not mentioned by anyone, but perhaps also an issue contributing to the tension in the church, was the war in Europe. The US would soon join the Allied efforts against the Germans.

The fourteen German speaking individuals and families of Immanuel, having walked out of that fatefull and contentious congregational meeting on December 16, now embarked on the ambitious goal of establishing their own congregation. They named themselves: "Evangelisch-Lutherische Friedensgemeinde U.A.C." or, "Evangelical Lutheran Congregation of Peace" It was truly a step of faith, and obviously the name that they chose was meaningful as they began their life together. The struggle must have been severe in many ways for these common folk. Their riches were not in gold and silver, but in faith! There are no records or memories at present that can reveal anything of substance of those first early days, but what we can know is that nothing stood still. Peace was, from the beginning, an energetic congregation of sinner/saints. Rev. Dasler left after only a short three months of service, preaching his farewell sermon on April 2. But it seems the congregation heard that farewell sermon as they worshipped for the first time in their new home: the Benjamin Estate, situated on the corner of Parker St. and Main Ave. The Benjamin Estate was one of the oldest buildings in the Providence section of Scranton, and had served as a popular coach stop and hotel during the frontier days. The previous written histories of the congregation indicate that it was in April that the congregation purchased the building, but according to the actual purchase deed, it seems that it was not until August 22 that the purchase was completed.

Notes: *Jakob Penzek is listed in all the histories of Peace as being a charter member. However, he is not listed as one of the original members in the church record book.

In addition to the efforts to establish a permanent home of worship (they had been renting worship space at the neighboring Welsh Congregational Church), there were many other ways that the congregation was establishing itself. On April 18th the congregation adopted its constitution and at some point soon after that became incorporated by the state of Pennsylvania. The congregation then made application to join the "Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Missouri, Ohio, and other States" (of which Immanuel was a member also). The church applied for a $2000 loan from the Church Extension Fund, which, along with a $4000 mortage, funded the purchase and renovation of the Benjamin Estate.

Peace Lutheran currently maintains membership from the descendants of the Schweitzer, Klees, Korban, Schlesser, Penzek and Erkow families.

February 11, 1917

April 2, 1917 the "Benjamin Estate"

First English Service

became the new home for Peace Lutheran & Rev. Dasler bids his farewell to the new congregation.

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The amount of work and dedication that it took to accomplish all of this in such a short amount of time is nothing less than stunning.

Below is the heading portion of the deed for the Benjamin Estate... A $4000 mortage was obtained to make this possible.

Faith is a living, daring conďŹ dence in God's grace, so sure and certain that a man could stake his life on it a thousand times.

- Martin Luther

Main Street vew of the Benjamin Estate - and the view of the back. The downstairs became the main sanctuary, while the upstairs became the living quarters for the pastors.

Below is a draft of the original congregation's constitution.

April 18, 1917 Church Constitution Established

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Early Years 1917-1921: We know very little about the details of the early years of the church, but after Rev. Dasler bid his farewell to the infant church he helped found, the church did not wait very long for its next leader - even though his ministry was not long either.

Rev. John C. Befus was ordained into the Holy Ministry and installed as pastor of Peace on June 3, 1917. At present we are not aware of how he came to Peace. However, we do know that he fell in love and married a member of the church, Christine Schweitzer. It was a little over one year later, July 29th of 1918, that he delivered his farewell sermon and left to be a circuit rider in Ridgeway, North Carolina. It was so very sad that only a few years later he died of teburculosis, after which his wife returned to Scranton and lived out her many years as a member of Peace.

Rev. Befus also chopped wood!

Christine Befus in later years

Rev. Paul Engelbert was installed as the pastor of Peace on September 29, 1918. Rev. Engelbert came to Peace with a wife named Emma and a child named Norma Ruth. While he was pastor of Peace two other children were born into the family, Eleanor and Helen. We also know he was from a very small town in South Dakota called Armour.

From all indications he was a very popular pastor among the congregational members, as he kept getting invited back for celebratory events here at Peace to preach (including the 25th Anniversary worship service.)

Interestingly, Rev. Engelbert took a call to St. Luke's Lutheran Church in Archibald, PA (just up the valley a few miles), preaching his farewell sermon on August 17, 1921 (just a week after his third daughter was born!) After serving in Archbald he spent many years in ministry in the Philadelphia area.

June 3, 1917 Rev. Befus Installed September 29, 1918 Rev. Engelbert Installed

July 1917 Ladies Aid established

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Scenes of the lives of early church members.

The German immigrant families grew, and, although never becoming wealthy, they established themselves and their church. Some were even able to exchange the miner's dangerous living for the country farm life - while trying their hardest to maintain their ties to their beloved church family. Starting to the left we see the Phillip Schweitzer family (1937), Ed Herman, Gus and John Korban on the Korban farm, Cyranus "Mac" and Emma

(Kline) McPhee on their wedding day, September 19, 1928, Helen Camin (1931), Anna and Ed Herman, and Lorraine Schwietzer with her doll in their living room (age 3 and 1/2 years.)

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Rev. Henry Camin Pastorate 1921 - 1964 "Father of Peace" 13

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Rev. Camin: Sight Restored!

We often love to sing "Amazing Grace" and about how we who were spiritually blind now see our Savior. We also read in Holy Scripture how Jesus healed the blind. One of the special aspects of Pastor Camin's life was that as a young boy he became blind - and then how his healing influenced him to dedicate his life to the Holy Ministry.

According to my Aunts, my grandfather (Rev. Henry Camin) was not sick when he became blind.

My grandfather was 8 years old and lived in Bufalo, New York. A few blocks from his house people were building a church. He was walking near the construction and looked up at the building they were making. Some of the mortar fell onto his face and into his eyes. At that time, lye was in the mortar and it completely blinded him. The family were fervent believers and prayed very hard, making the promise that my grandfather would commit his life to God if his sight was restored. He was blind for over a year, possibly as long as 2 years and then his sight started to return. He irst saw the shadow of his mother moving between himself and a window in the house.

Slowly the sight returned. My grandfather loved math and had a full scholarship to a school to continue his education after college, but his mother and family reminded him that he made a vow along with them to give his life to God. Conirmation picture.

Emmaus Lutheran Church, Bufalo, NY - about 1907.

- Reflections by Barbara Rogal Jahansoozi, Granddaughter of Rev. Camin

To the right is a portrait of a young Henry Camin, probably taken around 1915. In 1917, as a seminary graduate, he accepted his first Diving Call at St. Martin's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Basehor, Kansas and served there throughout World War I. It was a difficult time for the congregation as the largely German/American members were subjected to AntiGerman sentiment, but Rev. Camin, "...led the church through some of its most trying times..." (from: The History of St. Martin's Evangelical Lutheran Church of Basehor, Kansas by Steven G. Mariano) - Janet Rogal, Granddaughter

“‘And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding." - Jeremiah 3:15

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The immigrants kept coming and families were large. The congregation was growing very fast by the early 1920s and Rev. Camin steered the ship well with God's leading. It was items like this beautiful (9 page!) parish newspaper that signified the growing prestige of the church. Now all they needed was a respectable church to worship in. The former Benjamin Estate was no longer sufficient for the congregation's needs and by the end of 1927 plans had been completed for their new sanctuary and fundraising for it began in earnest.

Of interest below is the fact that, as of 1926, the German service was still the primary service, while the English service was still relegated to the evening.

November 27, 1921 Rev. Camin Installed January, 1925 Parish Paper "Peace Lutheran Messenger" introduced for congregational use, but also for the community.

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Building a New Church.

To the modern mind of the 21st century, the thought of raising funds, drawing up and approving the archetectural plans, putting the construction job out to bid, tearing down the old Benjamin Estate, and finally actually building a complete church sanctuary, all within 11 months - is completely impossible. But this was the age when the Empire State Building was built in 410 days! God had given incredible energy and faith to this still-new congregation.

The total cost of constructing the new sanctuary was $16,800 (not including the furnishings, etc.). The congregation rejoiced because it would not have been possible except for a $10,000 gift from a John P. Shaffer, a wealthy Lutheran lay person from Pittsburg, who had made it his business to help new mission churches build their sanctuaries.

This is none other than the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.

Blessed be the Lord; may God's glory fill the whole earth.

June 17, 1928 Cornerstone Laid

December 2, 1928 Church Dedicated

Rev. W.G. Albrecht, St. John's, Pittston, preached

Rev. Albrecht preached in German & Rev. Engelbert in English

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The Great Depression years.

The sky had seemed the limit for Peace during the "Roaring '20s". The church was conceived and built on the assumption of continued economic growth and well being... No one dreamed of the October 1929 market crash and the subsequent economic black hole. The 1930s were a terrible time for almost everyone - and that meant the church struggled mightily as well. Although the congregation was receiving at least some financial help from the Eastern District (as it was still designated a "mission church"), it still had a mortgage.

The memories shared by congregational members who lived during that time painted an exceedingly painful picture of life. Members strove mightily to save every penny to not only keep themselves fed, but also to keep the church bills paid. It was in 1933 that the church annals admit that, for the first time, the pastor's salary could not be paid in full. But live through the 1930's the congregation did, finding ways to support each other. Even when the congregation couldn't pay Pastor Camin, members brought Helen Camin chickens from the farm and vegetables from their gardens.

Conď„Žirmation Class of 1934

Sunday School Teachers The Korban Farm was deď„Žinitely a favorite escape for the good folks of Peace Lutheran.

1933 AM English Service It was in 1933 that the English service was moved from 7:30 pm and took the prime 10 am time slot. The German service was moved then to 11 am. It is unclear when the German service was discontinued, but it was not too many years after.

Church Picnic at Korban Farm

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1934 Pipe Organ installed 1938 Church Bell installed

The War Years and Being All Grown Up. Sending 47 young men of the congregation into the line of fire over the years of WWII was no easy task of the heart. No specific mention of how even more conflicted it was on the Germanspeaking members who most likely still had family contacts in Germany. Miraculously every one of the 47 servicemen from Peace came back from the war.

Church leaders on 25th Anniversary: (L-R) ?, "Jack" Tugend, Doc Monske, Rev. Camin, August Eidinger, William Schweitzer, Ed Hermann

It was during the 1940s that Peace Lutheran Church hit a couple milestones in its life which seemed to confirm: "We are a grown up and mature church now." The sanctuary was built and a substantial organ was installed in the 30s. But it was on January 1, 1942 that the congregation celebrated its 25th Anniversary. A week later it dedicated 150 new "The Lutheran Hynmal" hymnals. That beloved hymnal and the liturgy therein (being a significant publication that served to unite LCMS congregations nationwide together in a way that they hadn't been before) was to serve the congregation for well over 50 years. In 1946 the congregation became "self supporting" and was no longer receiving any kind of financial support from the Eastern District of the LCMS, and finally on June 1, 1947, at the 30th Anniversary service of the congregation, the mortgage was burned! Truly the congregation had attained maturity.

Reflections by Grace Morris

25th Anniversary Sanctuary

1946 Joined Walther League 1942 "The Lutheran Hymnal" Lutheran worship regularalized with its introduction.

June 1, 1947 Mortgage burned

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When I was in second grade, I recall the day when Joan Freeman, my close friend was removed from class by a family friend and taken home to be with her mother.

Her brother Albert was killed in action. Her other brother came home at the war's end and was sent to a Veterans Hospital where he remained for several years sufering from shell shock and depression.

The day Japan signed their unconditional surrender aboard the U.S.S. Missouri, the City of Scranton celebrated by thanking and praising God. Church bells were heard ringing everywhere and people locked to their churches to celebrate inal victory.

PEACE LUTHERAN LADIES GUILD & Lutheran Women's Missionary League (L.W.M.L.) As with the rest of life, not much got done in the church without the beautiful work of its faithful and faith-filled women. It was in July of 1917 that the Ladies Guild was formed - the first organization within the just-born church. From then on the church annals are repleat with the activities and work of the women. We praise the Lord for the devotion and love the women have for their Lord. Today, although the role of the Ladies Guild and LWML are not as prominent in the church, the actual work of the women has not diminished!

Grace Morris Reflects on the LWML and the Ladies Guild: Over the years the Ladies Aid changed their name to the Ladies Guild and contributed to the beauty of the church by purchasing altar coverings for each of the church seasons plus red for Pentecost and special occasions.

New communion ware was purchased plus the new collection plates. Also many other things that have escaped my memory....

Women ready to work!

I can't remember the year [it would have been after 1948 when it began] but I do remember Pastor Goette's wife from St. John's, Pittston, coming to Peace explaining what the Lutheran Women's Missionary League was all about encouraging our church and that of Immanuel to join. Not really understanding it completely, Peace became a willing partner. I served as Treasurer of our local society and also the Anthracite Zone for a few years. I also attended two international conventions in Kansas City and Charlotte, NC.

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PEACE LUTHERAN YOUTH AND YOUNG ADULT MINISTRIES It seems that although there were certainly times when the youth and young adults of Peace were not particularly organized, so many of us can look back fondly and with great joy at growing up in the church and finding a wonderful community of friends who were all learning to follow Jesus.

Reflections on the Walther League - by Grace Morris

Live nativity scenes shared with live animals for several years.

The Walther League played an important role in my life and I couldn't wait to become part of it. Our meetings (the Junior League) was well attended. Bible studies went along with serious meetings planning our retreats, activities and zone meetings. The Senior Walther Leaguers were very active also. Each church in the Anthracite Zone was able to get a baseball team (men only) organized. Games were scheduled every Sunday afternoon. All of the teams were involved playing in diferent places.

Records were kept of the games that were won by each team and play-of games were held in early fall. We would never miss a ball game. It was important to cheer our team on to victory!

Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.

-1Tim. 4:12 During the @2005-2015 Peace youth participated with other sister congregation youth at "Banana Cram" Youth Lock Ins!

In the 1960s the congregation sponsored scout troop 25. Here church members Johnathan Mercer, Josh and Adam Evans received their religious awards @1997 (with others).

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Typo? "Last Rites"?

THE MUSIC & ORGANISTS OF PEACE LUTHERAN CHURCH

Grace Morris and Jill Trapene October 2011 at the Allan Organ Dedication

The first organ mentioned in the church annals was a "new reed organ" that was purchased in 1924, which would have been used in the old Benjamin Estate building. Evidently that organ was then used in the new Peace church when it was built in 1928.

It was then on Dec. 18, 1938 that an 8 year old Robert Morton pipe organ was dedicated to the glory of God. It had been purchased from St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church in Athens, PA for $200.

The cost of the installation was $375!

By the 21st century, after so many years of many thousands of dollars of repairs and upkeep, and because the sound of the organ (though very dear to us) was not particularly good, it was decided to purchase a top quality digital organ. In October 2011 our new Allan Organ was dedicated to the Lord. It had a purchase price of $60,000.

PEACE LUTHERAN ORGANISTS: Anna Herman Ruth Camin Ileen Colbert Eleanor Mercer Grace Morris 1948

Anita Deuerlein Susan Mach 1969 Jill Sakevicius Trapane Beverly Gedrimas Arlene Sauter Kevin Winters 2002 Michele Mazak 2011 Jill Sakeviclus Trapane 2012 Hannah Bjornstad 2012 Mark Herie 2012 Amanda Kilgus 2013 Carsten Bjornstad 2015

1957 PEACE LUTHERAN CHOIR Back Row: Gus Kopatz, Stanley Brown, Alfred Klees, Emil Leja, Edward Herman Front Row: Grace (Schweitzer) Morris (director), Mildred Schack, Eleanor Kline, Catherine (Korban) Tugend, Lillian (Schweitzer) Kopatz, Anna (Korban) Herman, Tillie Pfaffroth, Dora Jierski

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I have no use for cranks who despise music, because it is a gift of God. Music drives away the Devil and makes people joyful; they forget thereby all wrath, unchastity, arrogance, and the like.

Next after theology, I give to music the highest place and the greatest honor.

Martin Luther

THE SOUNDS OF PEACE REFLECTIONS BY GRACE MORRIS: The Sounds of Peace became a great community outreach beginning when Rolf Buchmann was Pastor. He got it started. The group grew in number reaching 35 which included adults, teens and children. When Pastor Buchman left to go to St. John's, N. Tonawanda, Bill Pencek replaced him as guitarist, and I played piano. Then Suzie Decker joined us. She played piano and I spent my time planning our programs (usually an hour to hour and a half long). We continued for many years sharing the Gospel in word and song at all of the Senior high rise buildings, the Veterans Hospital in Wilkes-Barre and all of the Nursing Homes in the area. We were invited to sing at other churches for their social functions and always our programs included a ten minute plus message. We never considered ourselves entertainers, therefore we never presented a musical program only.

Today the choirs of Peace still sing and make music to the Lord. At present we have a youth choir that sings from time to time, but the 7 member Peace Men's choir is the premire singing group, singing regularly under the direction of Carsten Bjornstad.

1982 Sounds of Peace

"The aim and inal end of all music should be none other than the glory of God and the refreshment of the soul." —J. S. Bach (1685-1750)

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The Growth Continues in the 1950's The economic and social vitality of the Scranton area was hitting its peak during the 1950's - and that was certainly reflected in the congregation of Peace Lutheran. The church took major steps to upgrade its physical plant. First the parsonage was built, then the furnace in the church was replaced (with an automatic stoker!), and finally the church basement was upgraded with a lot of hard labor. It becomes amazing to realize that Rev. Camin in 1956 had been the pastor of Peace for 35 years! When you speak with those who were in the church about what they remember about Pastor Camin, they all remark how he was "always there".

Ken and Eleanor Mercer with son Charles: 1950.

March, 1956 P.L.C. Men's Club Organized 25 Charter members with George Eber elected ď„Žirst President.

May 16, 1954 Congregation Votes for Parsonage Contract approved for Gus Mueller to build it for $21,000. On December 21 of that same year Mr. George Cizik handed keys to Rev. Camin for the new parsonage. Quite the step up from when he moved into the upstairs of the ď„Žirst Peace church, and the rented houses the congregation had proviced since the new church was built. It was in 1955 that the garage was built next to the new parsonage.

March 1953 New Holy Communion Presented to the congregation by the Ladies Guild and the Young Adult Society.

Peace Ball players and their much fairer friends!

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Charter Members Matthew and Minnie Rudat

Emma McPhee (upper left) with Rev. Camin and his wife Helen. Other dignitaries unknown.

June 8, 1958 Dedication of Renovated Church Basement During 1958 the men of the church embarked on something of a heroic labor of love. The church basement was small and the ceiling low. The men decided to work every night and over a period of weeks, with pics and shovels, they actually dug out the basement, lowering the ď„Žloor and adding more ď„Žloor space. They were able to add a bathroom and make the kitchen larger.

And we can't forget the labors of the ladies of the church because every night they came down and cooked dinner so the men had their strength to work into the night! (unforutunately we do not have any pictures!)

Back Row: Daniel Schlesser, Alfred Klees, Richard Forba.

Front Row: Caroline Harvey, Rose Leja

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The Times Change with the 1960s.

The changes at Peace Lutheran (and the whole nation) that took place during the 1960's were nothing short of seismic. Not only was our local economy of coal mining being decimated, but the social upset and rebellion in the nation was making its inroads even into very conservative Roman Catholic Scranton. Most weighty of all, the time had come for Rev. Camin to retire - in the onset of his 43rd year of his pastorate at Peace Lutheran Church.

Immediately following his retirement three consecutive pastors were called (in January, February, and March), but much to the consternation of the congregation, all three declined. In the end the congregation applied for a candidate coming out of the seminary, and on April 22, 1964, a Theodore Hanus was assigned as pastor of Peace. To make the transition from a pastor of 43 years to one coming out the the seminary - a bacheolor at that!) must have been full of pitfalls. But amazingly it seemed to turn out quite well, thanks to an easy going congregation and an able pastor.

January 1, 1964 Rev. Camin Retires Richard and Paulette Fredrickson married 1967

March 2, 1960 Evangelism Crusade

July 5, 1964 Rev. Hanus ordained and

Conducted in conjunction with the season of Lent leading to Easter.

installed as pastor.

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50th Anniversary Committee: Elwood Eidinger, Phillip Schweitzer, Matthew Rudat, Emil Leja, Rev. Hanus, Mrs. Robert Avery

1965 Conirmands Steve Brown, Robert Camin, Richard Mercer, Ronald O'Leary

1967 Golden Jubilee 50th Year The Jume 4th Jubilee Eucharist Service featured Eastern District President Rev. Fincke as preacher and the "church was packed with worshippers". The banqet was held at the Jerynm Hotel and featured a presentation of the Key to the City by a city oicial.

1966 Purchase of Parking Lot 1966 Church Budget set at $17,874

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A series of shorter pastorates.

After 4 1/2 years of faithful service, Pastor Hanus took a call to New York, but it did not take long for Pastor Buchmann to find his way to Peace (his story is on his Pastor Page). Known for his guitar playing and singing, Rev. Buchmann attempted to start a folk service, and one lasting contribution was his help in getting Sounds of Peace choir going.

Lillian Colbert remembers: "Pastor Buchmann and his lovely family arrived. The parsonage is alive with the laughter of small children. Since our Sunday School had been large (under the direction of the Stenzhorns) we had been using the parsonage as extra space. It was then returned to the original purpose, to house a family. Pastor Buchmann was, and still is, a kind gentle man. He fulď„Žilled his duties in a quiet, gentle, manner that the congregation liked and took to heart.

It was perhaps starting during the 1970s that the congregation plateaued and even started to decline. In the early 1970s the congregational reports still indicated Sunday worshiping averages of 120+, and Sunday School of 25-30 children, which seems very large to us today. But yet, according to the records, there was always something of a struggle to keep the budget fulfilled. The economy in Scranton had started to turn south already in the 1960s, and now the population stagnation and loss in the city began to hurt the congregation. Even though there seemed to be no reduction in the regular routine of pot lucks, youth events, Mother/Daughter Breakfasts, etc., there were certain things (like lower attendance at voter's meetings) which belied a slight softening of energy.

June 21, 1969 Rev. Rolf Buchmann Installed

March 1968 Renovation of organ and balcony January 1969 Hanus takes a call to NY

January 1968 Tunkhannock Mission

Sent relief workers & raised $1000 in the aftermath of St. Agnes Hurricane ď„Žloods. Freda Monske accepts medical missionary position in Papua New Guinea.

Peace worked with area congregation to establish St. Paul's Lutheran

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1972 Wilkes Barre Flood/Missions

The 1970's brought some new initiatives that are worth mentioning. One of the congregation's favorite saints of God, Freda Monske (who was already an accomplished warrior for the Lord) accepted a medical missionary position at a hospital in Papua New Guinea for a period of time. The congregation worked to give her support in her endeavors. As well, it might be noted, that the popular ministry model of the Vacation Bible School got its start in the 1970s here at Peace.

Following Pastor Buchmann, two other pastors served during the 1970s. Rev. Drankwalter's short tenure had some positives, but it was also evidently frought with some tension (he acknowledged this in his final letter to the congregation). Significantly, during his tenure, he oversaw the change to allow women to vote in the voter's meetings. It had been 10 years earlier that women were first invited to attend voter's meetings!

Pastor Nickel was a very well recieved pastor when he came in 1975 with his wife Connie. Pastor Nickel had a great gift for evangelism and during his pastorate he gathered evangelism teams that went weekly into the community. In November of 1977, under his direction, the congregation brought in a Lutheran Evangelist for four nights in something of a reprisal of the old time "Tent Revival" meetings. Significantly Pastor Nickel in 1977 brought in the practice of having Holy Communion twice a month instead of only once a month.

Connie was very active in the ministry as well, even having what she called the "Parsonage Prattle" newsletter column, lifting up the curtain of the life of the pastor and his family, as well as talking about various new ministry initiaitives she was involved with.

September 2, 1973 Rev. Drankwalter Installed

November 23, 1975 Rev. Tim Nickel Installed

1974 Women's sufferage in the congregation

Pan-Lutheran initiative began with Peace's help (now Lutherwood)

Peace Church Budget for 1974: $25,000

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1978 Senior Housing initiative

The 1980's and early 1990s ended up to be some of the more difficult years for the congregation. Rev. Eduard Vijda was installed as pastor on December 16, 1979. By all accounts, he was a brilliant, artistic man and an powerful spiritual leader, though some would have judged that his people skills were sometimes lacking. It was during his pastorate that one of the most trying crises of the chuch's history occured. In one horrific car accident that garnered national media attention, two teenagers of the congregation, Michele Cizik and Jodie Hafich, were killed - along with 6 others. The sorrow and grief of that event still reverberates with congregational members and family today. In memory of the two girls a memorial "Living Window" was created on a front facing window of the church whereby Biblical stories and events were projected so that those passing by could see.

Life did go on after that great tragedy. The youth group was very active, presenting dramas to the congregation and community, enjoying various trips and activities with other area youth groups (Walther League had ceased to be active as an organization by this time.) Back in 1979 the congregation had sponsored a Laotian refugee family, and the congregation continued to minister to them - resulting in several baptisms! In the late 1980s life became more difficult again when Rev. Vijda was sticken with cancer and in November of 1989 he died in office, having preached almost to the end.

Recovering from their grief, the congregation was struggling at this point, thankful for their vacancy pastor, Rev. Morris, of St. Stephens. In October of 1989 it was proposed that Peace work with St. Stephen's Lutheran Church in Dickson City to have a permanent sharing of their pastor. The thought of affording a full time pastor at that time seemed to be a high order for the congregation. Unfortunately there were complications in the arrangements and then it was only a couple months in to the new year that Rev. Morris took a call and left St. Stephens. Finally the congregation did call Rev. Charles Bunzel,

March 10,1981 Cizik/Hafich Funeral December 16, 1979 Rev. Vijda installed

November, 1988 Rev. Vijda's death

April 28, 1991 Rev. Bunzel installed Oct 19, 1991 75th Anniversary 1992 Peace Church Budget: $56,800

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who was installed April 28, 1991. He came just in time to help celebrate the 75th Anniversary of the congregation that was held on October 19, 1991. Elsie Schweitzer headed up the anniversary events and banquet at Fiorelli's.

Unfortunately as time went on it became clear that Rev. Bunzel was not well and had trouble fulfilling his duties. Many families became upset and District officials and local clergy were called in to help with the situation. Finally he resigned from Peace in 1994, and passed away some months later.

Charles Mercer Remembers: "Others, Lord, yes others, may this our motto be, help us to live for others so we can be like thee." I think that is how it went. Pastor Kerns sang this from pulpit all of the time. He played his mini harmonica at times. Always wore the spark plug and cross of nails around his neck."

1994 Rev. Kerns

1996 Sunday School/Family Trip to Disney World!

Becomes the Vacancy Pastor

But only after a whole lot of recycling!

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Beaten down and very discouraged the congregation soldiered on. And it was at that point that God matched up Pastor Kerns, of St. John's Lutheran in Pittston, to be Peace's longer-term vacancy pastor.

Often a certain freedom in the relationship between a vacancy pastor and a congregation develops that can be wonderful. Vacancy pastors can often say things and do things that a permanent, called pastor would have trouble doing. He can also tell people that since he was only the vacancy pastor - they had to do a lot of the work.

Pastor Kerns was able to establish an incredible relationship with the congregation of Peace Lutheran and God worked a miracle through his happy, exceedingly energetic, and powerful personality.

Pastor Kerns, immediately upon arrival, opened up giant vistas of mission and ministry in the minds of the congregational members - not through studies and multiple scripted and slick programs or PR campaigns - but simply being and living out the life of the child of God. If there was someone in the neighborhood, or a friend, or member of the congregation who needed a boost... everyone banded together to put a rummage sale or fundraising dinner together. The council would even take up a cause and pay a rent bill from time to time to help folks out.

But Pastor Kerns was also prone to having a lot of fun. And it was contagious. There was nothing more thrilling than his booming challenge to the congregation to raise money for the Sunday School to go to Disney World. They grabbed a hold of it and never let go. Many, many cans and bottles later a very large group of some 28 Sunday School children - and many of their family and friends - all had their way to Florida paid for! A lot of people wanted to be a part of a church like Peace, and they came!

And the church grew again. Although it was by no means a financially rich congregation, by the time Pastor Bjornstad was called to Peace, the church was humming with great activity and had a wonderful lay leadership core who did tremendous amounts of work. As a side note to everything that was happening under Pastor Kerns' leadership the church raised money to put in new furnaces and installed air conditioning. Praise the Lord!

He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things?

Romans 8:32

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The Perry family arrived at Disney World

The New Century Begins!

The Rev. Kristian Bjornstad was called to Peace from a very small congregation of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Nipigon, NW Ontario, Canada (although he is an American.) He brought along his wife Monica and three daughters (with another daughter to be born in Scranton.) North East PA was not the kind of place he had experienced before, and the reality of a city that had lost so much of its population, vitality, and economic power was evident. The neighborhood situated around the church had degraded somewhat and had been termed "the hood" by some. But that was just fine by Pastor Bjornstad because that is where Jesus would have been too. Best of all he came to a congregation that had been transformed by God into a very fun and exciting center of grace. The challenge would be to build on what had already been done.

So far, although things certainly could be better on a number of counts, God has been very good to Pastor Bjornstad and the Peace congregation for over 16 years. Praise the Lord!

October 15, 2000 Installation of Rev. Kristian Bjornstad: Rev. Rudy DeRosa, Rev. Robert Marshall, District President Rev. John Brunner, Rev. Kim Bode, Rev. Bjornstad, Rev. Keith Blom (outgoing vacancy pastor), Rev. Roth, Rev. Kerns, Rev. Grimm

Lillian Colbert Reflects: And inally, the time had come! Our call was answered. Thank God! We would be receiving a pastor from Canada, with a name no one could pronounce. Big news! He accepted. Once more the parsonage would be illed with little children. The cleaning began in earnest, church and parsonage, new kitchen approved by Monica and built by Jim Calpin.

Exciting! Upon meeting him, our hopes were high that we would have a family with us for at least a short time --- turned out to be a work in progress! Our pastor had hundreds of ideas, and of course, he wanted to do them all. And by the look of his desk he still does.

Progress made during this time has been remarkable, amazing and blessed. C.H.A.I.N. minsitry, Christian Caregiving, a new organ. But the largest leap of faith came when Pastor prayed and announced that we should have a Christian Day School. OH BOY! That was a challenge. Prayers and inancial support came forth and "The Lutheran Academy" was born. Not only born but thriving. BUT that was not all. SURPRISE! We bought a huge new beautiful church with many class rooms and oices, a Gather Hall, Sanctuary, big kitchen, and did it with the help and blessings of Pastor and the relentless commitment and labors of Jerry and Rick and a fabulous group of volunteers.

October 15, 2000 Rev. Kristian Bjornstad Installed

Our irst C.H.A.I.N. center was a former bakery across from the church. It was very dirty and run down, but real ministry was started to the youth of the neighborhood, and through a Parish Nursing program by our new Parish Nurse Susan Crosbie as well as Marcia Rudat.

2002 Tender Lutheran Caregivers

2004 C.H.A.I.N. ministry opens to the community

training for caregiving as a way of life

with part time director Meredith Woolverton.

2003 Peace Church Budget: $75,000

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The community children were invited to participate in our live nativities each year for several years.

2006 Conď„Žirmation Class: Joseph Schulze, Chris Brown, John 2002 Nelson Nichols Baptismal font cover McHale, Courtney Murray, Katherine Perry, Erika Bjornstad sculpture commissioned in memory of Lona Lisowski by Ernie Kent.

Meredith Woolverton Remembers: Chain Community Health and Action In our Neighborhood (C.H.A.I.N.) had started as summer feeding program to meet the needs of the families in the North Scranton Area. After spending a summer with these families and getting to know them, it became so much more than a summer program. With aggressive grant writing we were able to obtain the funding to go to a full year round program, oď„Žfering after school drop in program for Latch Key kids and providing tutoring and healthy snacks for the kids. It then morphed into a community program that

allowed us the opportunity to provide many community building programs.

This was a warm and welcoming program that was so enriching to the community. Our wonderful Parish Nurse (Susan Crosbie) also provided great support for the community health needs. In short CHAIN was more than a program: it was part of my heart and soul and when funding ran out in 2007, a part of me was left with that community. I praise God because I am a much better person for having the opportunity to serve the community and Peace Lutheran Church. (The program ran the last year in volunteer mode with leadership from Marilyn Wright, but finally closed in September 2008)

Former pizza joint becomes our C.H.A.I.N. Center Summer 2005 a new C.H.A.I.N. Center

2005 New lawn and landscaping.

Beautiful! Generously donated by Audry Russell

Down one block and across the street. Meredith Woolverton's part time Director's position grew to full time.

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January 2006 - first Disaster Relief trip to New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina

One of our wonderful church councils: (2008) Jim Calpin, Kevin Woolverton, Chuck Mercer, George Price, Mike Tugend, Pastor Bjornstad, Elsie Schweitzer, Paul Holzmann, Adella (Holzman) Decker

Chuck Mercer helping to lead the Easter Sunday worship!

August 2006 parking lot paved! Peace Lutheran Church has always done much to keep all the properties in excellent shape and looking good. God is gloriied in all of this.

August 2006 parking lot paved!

Here in this picture you can see both Elsie Schweitzer and Ramona Brown's houses were looded (2004). Peace Church has been involved with many local lood relief operations over the years. Twice here in the plot, but also in Tunkannock, Pittston, Wilkes Barre. We were also instrumental in the relief work after Hurricane Sandy in New Jersey, and Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans..

April 22, 2007: 90th Anniversary Celebrations!

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SO MANY BLESSINGS When looking back in history, what is more and more apparent is that it truly is HIS-story. It is difficult to see this when you are living through it. God has been good to Peace in its last decade. Under the watchful eye of Elsie Schweitzer, the church has always been very attentive to the physical appearance and condition of Peace Church.

Through the years Jim Calpin and Jerry Cornog headed up many maintinence and renovation projects. Building a new shed, installation of new roofs, painting the church (inside and out), lanscaping and paving the church parking lot, reconditioning the stained glass windows, installing new furnaces, church sign renovation, a brand new organ, etc., just to name a few. On top of all the regular work, the Trustees were very faithful in renovating the purchased Peace House and getting it ready for its new residents... And then, by God's grace, we were gifted with the Lutheran Ministry Center's affordable purchase price - and all the incredible amount of work that needed to be done with it! So many volunteer hours made this all possible. Amazing work that gives glory to God. Of course, ministry wise, the focus of much energy and prayer has been The Lutheran Academy. But life in the congregation continues. The church council has been always been a fabulous and joyful team that works well together.

After some years of low attendance, the Sunday School is seeing a revival. Pot roast dinners and other fundraisers continue for various charitable causes. Area-wide Lutherans continue to gather for Mission Festivals and Reformation services, as well as Lenten and Advent services. Also notable was how the Peace Lutheran congregation became the main supporters of the Assocaiton of Lutheran Friends and has helped keep up the Ransom Valley Lutheran Church and cemetery (mostly under the loving encouragement of Audrey Russell.) The youth groups also participated in various meetings and events and concerts. Every three years we have had youth members attend the National Youth Gatherings around the nation.

Financially the church has been on fairly solid footing over the past years, thanks to very generous children of God who are very conscientious tithers of what God has first given them. The challenge will always be building for the future a church that continues to be committed to the ministry and mission of the lord Jesus Christ and the sharing of His love and salvation. We look to God and the future with confidence for everything we need.

2010: Purchase of new Lutheran Service Book The new Lutheran hymnal has our regular historic liturgy along with many new hymns and features .

March 2011: Purchase of a Church Van Total cost: $11,000 - amazing story!

October 2009: Dedication of the new kitchen

Susan Crosbie our Parish Nurse - caring for our sick.

Member Artist Ky Betts blesses us almost every Sunday with original bulletin cover art.

December 2011: $32,000 raised for Academy.

After a plea for emergency funds to keep the bills paid, an amazing miracle resulted.

After many years of Ladies Guild fundraisers Peace Church inally had a total reit of the kitchen by Jim Calpin done. It is beautiful.

October 2011: Dedication of new Allan Organ!

August 2007: The Lutheran Academy Opens!

Installed by Robert Sides Music, dedication service played by organist Jill Trapane. Total cost for organ and installation: $60,000.

Roger Borchin is principal. Angela Scheller our irst teacher.

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Worship Life at Peace:

Jerry Walsh baptized!

Good Friday Re-enactment

Frank and Adella Decker

Monica Bjonrstad and Meredith Woolverton

Beverly Gedrimas, Sunday School

Indespensible workers for the Lord!

The ministry of Peace goes on! VBSs, baptisms, Sunday School, Altar Guild, marriages, and the witness of our Savior's life and death. Pictured bottom right are Bonnie Cornog and Parish Administrator Amy Betts.

The congregational worship life is always needs to be in tension between remaining connected to the church at large and through the ages, but at the same time uniquely local and timely.

Over the recent years some changes to our worship include the addition of the 8:15 early morning worship with Holy Communion every Sunday. This remains a small and intimate worship service with the main service continuing to be at 10:30 with Holy Communion on the 1st and 3rd Sundays. The other change to our worship has been the purchase of the Lutheran Service Book hymnal, which supplanted The Lutheran Hymnal - that Peace church has been using since 1942! Thankfully the new hymnal contains Peace's favorite historic liturgy. With the installation of our new organ we have had some very excellent organists who have brought much joy to our worship service. Praise God for the services of Jill Trapane, Amanda Kilgus, and now Carsten Bjornstad.

How God so beautifully arranges things for us! Peace choirs have been fantastic. The adult choir directed by Jill Trapane was extremely competent, then Hannah Bjornstad replaced that choir with an amazing youth choir, and now Carsten Bjornstad is conduting a major mens choir. The songs of praise continues!

December 2016: New Sound System

January 1, 2015 Amy Betts: Parish Administrator Amy was commissioned to lead the administration of the congregation as Pastor was attending to the vacancy duties at Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Installed for $5000 as part of our 100th Anniversary Projects along with two other community projects.

May 31, 2015 Church of All Nations mission begins

October 2013: Purchase of the Peace House

Rev. Naveen Nischal began a year long ministry to immigrants that was hugely successful for one year, The congregation purchased a house across the street from but then was unfortunately disbanded. the Parsonage in order to assist those who are in need of afordable housing.

April 1, 2015: Purchase of Trinity Baptist Church March 26, 2017 Centenial Purchased for $75,000 to house The Lutheran Academy, our church oices, and for other Christian ministries including the Church of All Nations.

The Dedication of the LMC was on May 31st, 2015.

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Anniversary celebrations!

Chapter 2: The Pastors of Peace Lutheran Church To obtain such faith God instituted the oice of the ministry, that is, provided the Gospel and the sacraments. Through these, as through means, he gives the Holy Spirit, who works faith, when and where he pleases, in those who hear the Gospel. And the Gospel teaches that we have a gracious God, not by our own merits but by the merit of Christ, when we believe this. - Augsburg Confession Through the minsitry of our pastors the children of God here at Peace have been blessed with the preaching of God's Word and the administration of the Sacraments of Holy Baptism and the Altar.

They have proved to be sinners, no doubt. But even in their weakness God has been glorified.

Promises of the Congregation during the Installation of a new pastor: Charge to the congregation: Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, [name] has been called to be pastor of [name of congregation]. I ask you now, in the presence of God: Will you receive him, show him that love, honor, and obedience in the Lord that you owe to the shepherd and teacher placed over you by your Lord Jesus Christ, and will you support him by your gifts and fervent prayer? If so, then answer: We will, with the help of God. People: We will, with the help of God. Pastor: Will you honor and uphold your pastor as he serves Christ in all his God-pleasing responsibilities? Will you aid him as he cares for his family? Will you be diligent to “put the best construction on everything,” recognizing that “love covers a multitude of sins”? If so, then answer: We will, with the help of God. People: We will, with the help of God. Pastor: The almighty and most merciful God strengthen and assist you always.

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Rev. Theodore Hanus 1965-1968 Installation Bulletin's Biography: "Pastor Hanus was born March 2, 1938 of German and Chechoslovakian parentage. His father (Theodore) died when he was 10 years old and his mother, Olga, now lives in St. Louis, MO. He has two younger brothers, Thomas and Eugene.

Pastor Hanus attended Lutheran grade schools in Chicago's near west side, and graduated in 1952. He was conirmed the same year in First Immanuel Lutheran Church, Chicago. He studied ive years at our Concordia College in Milwaukee, Wis. in preparation for his theological course at the Seminary. His Seminary ield work program consisted of three months' work at the state Mental Hospital, services in two inner-city congregations, and a summer under the auspices of the National Council of Churches working in a role of "worker-priest" in Yosemite National Park (1961). He went to Europe on a concert tour with professors and students of our two theological semiaries for six weeks in the summer of 1962. He received his B.D. at our St. Luis Seminary on May 29, 1964."

Pastor Hanus was young and very energetic. He was thrown to ministry in a time of great upheaval in the nation with the Civil Rights movement and the Vietnam War. His talents were called upon right away by the Eastern District to work on its Youth board.

Lillian Colbert Remembers: After 45 years of Pastor Camin's dedication to Peace and the congregation, it was time for a new clergyman to give his talents and guidance. And that was Pastor T. Hanus.

Here comes a young man just out of Seminary. In fact he was ordained and installed at Peace. The lurry of activity that announced his coming was amazing.

Parsonage and church were cleaned and sparkling. Single women were ready to invite him for dinners. It was a big transition for us all. One of Pastor's talents was his work with the youth groups (of course he was still one of them!) As counselors, Don and I went on ield trips and camping with the group. On one occasion Pastor gave us his large tent and he slept in a pup tent, feet sticking out.

He also took advantage of the ski slopes - but unfortunately broke his ankle. He hobbled along for a few weeks, always with a smile or a joke. His own style prepared us for change - and change we did.

Pastor Hanus Remembers: One of the more humorous involved events leading up to my arrival. The details on my call document at the seminary were hand written and the irst letter of the Car allowance looked like a "B." I immediately became the envy of my classmates, as I was the only one with a $600 a year "bar" allowance. Then without thinking what a irst impression it might make, I packed up and mailed my library to the congregation in a dozen sturdy whiskey boxes. When I arrived a few weeks later, folks let me know, with a smile, they were wondering what kind of man they were getting from the seminary.

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Rev. Rolf A. Buchmann, 1969-1972 It has been rightly said that a pastor’s first church will always hold a special place in his heart. That is certainly true of my relationship with Peace Lutheran Church, the congregation I served from 1969 to 1972.

The call to serve came in a rather unique way. My father, living in Shohola, PA, in 1969 responded to a Beltone Hearing Aid commercial on TV. A representative of Beltone arranged a visit. He happened to be John Chiplinski, a member of Immanuel Lutheran in Scranton.

During the conversation with John, my father mentioned that his son, Rolf, was teaching German at a Lutheran School in Portland, Oregon, but was really eager to serve as the pastor of a church. At that time, Peace Lutheran in Scranton had a pastoral vacancy and was being served by Pastor Emil Mach of Immanuel.

When John heard what Jacob had said about his son, John ran to the telephone, called Pastor Mach, and exclaimed, “Emil, I’ve got one for you!” With that the wheels were set into motion. Fast forward – I received and accepted the call and after a cross country move, I was installed as pastor of Peace in 1969.

Although our earthly belongings filled only one fourth of the moving van, the bill had to be paid. Pastor Mach told me (I believe in jest) regarding the bill, “Buchmann, if I had realized you were moving from Portland Oregon, you would never have gotten the call. I thought you were living in Portland, Pennsylvania!”

I soon learned that I was serving a congregation eager to serve the Lord with the gifts with which the Lord had blessed them. Where else is there a church with a group of ladies who would serve a full-fledged dinner of beef “rouladen” at a local clergy gathering? Usually those clergy are fueled at such gatherings with only coffee and donuts!

It was my privilege to know some of the charter members of Peace, including Phillip Schweitzer, Matthew Rudat, and August Eidinger. Their positive witness of their faith in Jesus continues to be an inspiration.

The kindness of so many members of Peace to our family will always be remembered. Dan and Dora Jierski virtually “adopted” our daughters. Dan’s weekly visits always included chocolate donuts for the girls. Erna Stern blessed girls with homemade dresses. In times of illness, Mary Rohman blessed us with delicious chicken soup and homemade jam. These are but a few of many such memories.

One special ministry providing fellowship as well as outreach was the formation of the “Sounds of Peace”.

We were able to share the love of Jesus in word and music to residents at health care facilities including Clark Summit State Hospital and the Vets Hospital in Wilkes Barre. A special memory is Grace Morris singing “He Died for Us” and Fred Ortmann’s rendition of “Bless This House”.

May the Lord continue His blessings upon this very special part of God’s family.

In Christ, Pastor Buchmann 39

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Rolf Buchmann was born in New York City on May 5, 1940. He graduated from Concordia Teacher's College, Seward NE and taught at St. Paul Lutheran School, Mt. Prospect, Ill. before enrolling at the Springield seminary, being ordained at Lutheran Churh of Our Savior, Mt. Pocono, PA on July 7, 1968; He served as instructor at Concordia College and High School, Portland, Oregon before accepting the call to Peace Lutheran Church. He was married on August 20, 1966 to Bettina L. Niering of Scotrun, PA. He has one daugher, Christel, born September 16, 1967.

Rev. Richard Drankwalter 1973-1975 January 24,2017 My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Jesus Christ, I am so happy and joyful that Peace Lutheran Church is celebrating 100 years of ministry to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I am sorry that I cannot be there in person, however, I stop and think about how many lives and souls your congregation has touched. The joy of knowing that because the Gospelhas been preached in all its purity and truth, the doors of heaven will be opened to the souls that you have touched. It was a blessing to my family and I to have served you and do ministry together.

I would like to share with you a few memories. When I first arrived at Peace Lutheran Church, there was only one telephone and that was located in the parsonage. This was a real concern for both incoming and outgoing calls. The church council approved a telephone for the church building. Secondly, Peace Lutheran Church did not have women's suffrage. We had many widows in the congregation who really did not have a voice in the decisions made by the church. My wife, Paula and a number of other women held discussions on women's suffrage. They presented their concerns to the church council and the congregation.

Women's suffrage was adopted. Thirdly, I remember what happened on one Christmas Eve. After the services were concluded, I went home. During the night I heard a noise. I looked out of our bedroom window which faced the back of the church. I didn't see anything, so I went back to bed. On Christmas morning, I went into the church. There was a safe in the basement. Someone broke in the church Christmas Eve and attempted to open the safe. They placed a candle on the steps by the safe and left the candle burning. It actually charred the wooden steps. Thank and praise God the church did not burn down.

Lastly, during my tenure at Peace Lutheran Church, my daughter Jennifer was born. Today she is a mother of 2 children (Austin 13, Alyssa 9). She is also a teacher and a blessing. We also have a son that was born at our first assigned church, Timothy. He is an ENT doctor in Columbus, Ohio with one daughter, Olivia who is 11. Our lives have been truly blessed.

I wish the members of Peace Lutheran Church the fullness of God's blessings as you celebrate this special milestone. It is truly an honor and privilege to do God's work o fministry as you continue to proclaim the saving Gospel message of savlation in Jesus Christ.

In Christ, Pastor Richard Drankwalter

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From his installation bulletin: "Richard Drankwalter, was born July 4, 1944 in Queens Village, New York; He attended Public High School in Queens, NY: Junior College at Concordia, Bronxville, NY; Senior College at Concordia, Fort Wayne, Indiana, and in 1970 received his Masters of Divintiy from Concordia Theological Seminary at Springď„Žield, Illinois.

On August 18, 1968 he was married to Paula Kmet of Hillside, New Jersey. They have one son, Timothy Paul who is 2 years old."

Rev. Drankwalter currently is retired and resides with his wife in Florida.

Rev. Timothy Nickel, 1975-1979 We (Connie and Tim) reflect on our time in Scranton with the members of Peace Lutheran with fondness and joy.

We have been all over the world, but we still see these good Christian folk of Peace as the simple, hospitable, friendly, and straightforward salt of the earth. The faith of Peace people is simple in the sense of “like a child” and strong in the sense of mature. During our four short years in Scranton we were blessed with two baby girls born there, and while our four children do not have many memories they do have fond ones. We have never been in such a fellowship that was more like the family of God. I was blessed to see the spiritual growth of many people who came to a wonderful understanding of faith in Jesus Christ. I particularly enjoyed seeing the growth of the church with new believers and new transfers come to join us and see them warmly welcomed into fellowship with Christ and his body.

One outstanding joy we were privileged to be a part of was the singing group called “The Sounds of Peace.” Although we ourselves could not sing, we could appreciate the sounds of praise and wonderful blessing this group put out for many churches and organizations all around. We still remember being moved many times as we listened to the pure faith of these believers. I could experience the love of Jesus as the Spirit moved the group through their enthusiasm and facial expressions of joy in the Lord.

Peace Lutheran Church will always have a warm and soft place in our hearts as long as we are on the earth, and we eagerly look forward to enjoying the love and fellowship when we reunite again in the eternal Kingdom of Peace.

God bless you all and God bless the mission of Peace Lutheran Church.

Thanks you so much, Tim and Connie Nickel

Pastor Nickel was noted for strong leadership that was evangelistic and very much Holy Spirit-led. He was also a very strong preacher. He and his wife, Connie, and their daughter, were very well connected to the congregation and the many wonderful home bible studies are remembered fondly.

Presently they are retired and live in Florida - well deserved after spending the last years of their professional lives as missionaries working in Kyrgyzstan and Turkey. Praise God for their faithful work!

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Rev. Eduard Vajda, 1979-1988 From his Installation bulletin of December 16, 1979: Eduard M. Vajda, son of John and Mary Vajda of Hazelton, PA was born in Racine, Wisconsin on September 16, 1924.

He is a 1944 graduate of Concordia Preparatory College, Fort Wayne, Ind. and also of Concordia Seminary, St. Louis in 1949. After graduation he served parishes in Parshall, Keene, and Ryder North Dakota. From 1944-46. From 1946-48, he was a chaplain in the United States Air Force, with duty in Korea and Roslyn Air Force Base in New York state. From 1948-1959 he served as pastor for St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Columbia Pa. In 1959 he accepted as pastorial position with Redeemer Lutheran Church in Cleveland, Ohio, remaining there until 1975. In 1975, he was appointed to the position of Administrative Assistant, Youth and Education, South Wisconsin District. His tenure expired in early 1979. Since then he has served as a vacancy pastor in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area.

He was married to the former Barbara Feleggi,in 1953. They have one son, Jayson, born in 1957. Pastor Vajda speaks Slovak and Russian as well as some ability to speak German and Spanish. He is a creative person in that his talents are in music and has a good writing.

Of further note: Rev. Vajda's father was a pastor of the Holy Trinity Slovak Lutheran Church in Chicago (where he grew up). As well he had two brothers, both of whom were of exceptionaly creative minds who also both became pastors. Most famous of the three brothers was Jaraslov, who became one of the most beloved hymn writers of the Lutheran Church. In our current Lutheran Service Book hymnal there are 10 hymns by his pen!

If you look around Peace Church you can definitely see his creative mark far outliving him. Chiefly, there is the altar in the fellowship hall that he built, the carved mural on the front sanctuary wall, and finally, it was his wife that painted the Faith, Hope, and Love mural on the basement wall. Pastor Vijda was known for his firey preaching, and, some would say, his polarizing personality. After serving nine years as pastor here at Peace, he died in office from cancer, preaching and teaching doggedly until almost the very end of his life. He was laid to rest on November 28, 1988 from Peace Lutheran Church. To have your pastor pass away in office is a very difficult thing for any congregation, and Peace experienced a very low spiritual valley during this time.

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.

Psa. 116:15

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Lillian Colbert Remembers: Fire and Brimstone....

Teacher and artist.... demonstrating how the shepherd is the gate by lying down across the opening in the altar railing... and for yanking Santa Clause of the church Christmas Tree...

Being pastor in 1981 during the tragedy of the Michele Cizik and Jodie Haich deaths...

Rev. Charles F. Bunzel, 1991-1994 Rev. Charles F. Bunzel was installed at Peace Lutheran on May 5, 1991.

There is no record extant indicating any historical background to his person. It was found out through research, that previous to his coming to Peace, he served as a vacancy pastor at Faith Lutheran Church in Easton, PA. Prior to that he had served a congregation in New Jersey for almost 10 years.

He came to Peace as a single, elderly pastor, and he and his mother lived in the parsonage. He was, by all accounts, a very kind individual and he was good at taking care of those in hospital and those shut in. However the historical record does not reflect well on his ministry overall because it became clear that he was stricken with alcoholism.

In 1994 it was evident that he was not getting any better and the congregation asked him to resign. He and his mother moved to the Poconos, where he passed away shortly thereafer.

Rev. Russell Kerns, 1994-2000 (Long Term Vacancy) To give proper description of and testament to the Rev. Russel Kerns is well beyond the scope of this history of Peace Lutheran Church, if it is at all possible (which is doubtful).

We had many vacancy pastors in this church's history, but none are mentioned except Pastor Kerns.

Surely no vacancy pastor served as long as he did, and perhaps no called pastor of Peace had as much personal impact as Pastor Kerns. God literally did miracles through this truly remarkable individual.

Miracles in the lives of individuals as well as miracles in the little congregation called Peace Lutheran.

Pastor Kerns was born March 20, 1920, in Steeltown, PA - just south of Harrsiburg. After graduating he

immediately served in the U.S. Navy on the battleship Indiana in the Pacific theater of war. He then attended the Lutheran Seminary in Gettysburg, PA and was ordained in 1953. He served several congregations before colloquizing into the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod and taking the call to the

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small congregation of St. John's Lutheran Church, Pittston, PA. In the end he served there 22 years until his death in 2007. He was married to Charlotte and they had five children together.

Pastor Kerns was truly unique, beyond any easy category. He was, no doubt, a little "rough around the edges". You never knew what exactly was going to come out of his mouth next.

Charles Mercer describes how he came downstairs in the church (as the congregational president at the time) and saw this short, elderly man with a bowler hat on. Having never met him before, he stuck out his hand and said "Hello, I am glad to meet you!", and was shocked when Pastor Kerns answered immediately in his gruff and loud voice: "Are you really?"

He would from time to time wear his Penn State jacket over his alb for worship. He never let the fact that he couldn't find a pitch keep him from singing - loudly! He had a chauvenistic streak to him that sometimes offended, but most people had so much fun with him that it was easy to overlook. He would literally pick kids and families up off the street and bring them to church. He would shake their hands and they were automatically considered church members.

And he loved children. A lot. And of course they loved him as well! But what he was most famous for (as if any of those things were not enough), was his recycling. He would be seen regularly walking the highways and byways all around Scranton picking up cans and bottles and his garage was always bursting with all kinds of recycling. Soon after beginning his ministry here he challenged the whole Sunday School to raise enough money through recycling to take everyone down to Disney. Amazingly they accepted the challenge and in 1996 the whole Sunday shool (28 kids) and their families flew to Florida for a vacation together. He went to Disney World every year, taking kids with him every time!

Around his neck Pastor Kerns always wore a car engine spark plug, and he was he was a spark for Peace. Through his energy and amazing ability to make an impact on everyone he met, he literally showed Jesus to Peace Lutheran - and gave them hope - at a time when they really needed it. He prepared the congregation again for a new called pastor. Praise the Lord!

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Lillian Colbert Remembers: In runs Pastor Kerns. Derby hat, Penn State logo, his robes lowing. Of course, he had to rush from his Pittston church to oiciate at Peace - oftentimes avoiding a ticket for speeding. His motto "Others Lord Others," was his mantra that he lived by. He pushed our congregation to get involved, and we did.

Air conditioning was installed, many improvements accomplished. Then there was the trip to Disney, all expenses paid, not only for kids in the congregation, but neighbors and foster kids. Leanne (Duddek) was superintendent of Sunday School, and she was relentless in fund raising. Pastor collected cans, picked blueberries, and cracked black walnuts to raise money. He was not always "conventional" but we got stronger because of his dedication.

Rev. Kristian G. Bjornstad, 2000-present Pastor Bjornstad was born April 26, 1967 in Minneapolis, MN and spent much of his childhood growing up in India as his parents were teaching missionaries there. After moving back to the United States at the age of ten, his family lived in Minneapolis, Michigan, and Wisconsin. Pastor Bjornstad graduated from Concordia College, St. Paul, MN in 1989 and soon after married his bride Monica. He graduated in 1994 from Concordia Theological Seminary, Edmonton Alberta and accpted his first call to Immanuel Lutheran Church, Nipigon, Ontario, Canada. He was blessed for over 6 years in that congregation before receiving a Divine Call to Peace Lutheran Church in Scranton, PA. Besides his love for his family, Pastor Bjornstad has many interests outside the Holy Ministry. He is a seriously fun photographer, loves his computers and gadgets, enjoys cooking soup, and tries to get some easy sailing in each fall with his beloved sailboat "Good News".

His wife Monica completed her teaching degree at Marywood University here in Scranton, and has been teaching Spanish in public school for many years, all the while raising four beautiful children: Erika (now married with one child), Hannah, Marja, and Sarah.

Top picture: Favorite family photo on the occasion of Hannah's Confirmation (2008): Monica, Hannah, Sarah, Marja and Erika.

Lower left: a favorite early picture during a VBS. Lower right: with congregational member Mark Koenig, recipient in 2010 of a kidney transplant from Pastor Bjornstad.

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The beautiful Sanctuary of Peace Lutheran Church, Scranton

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Chapter 3: Further Notes and Remembrances

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The Lutheran Academy, Scranton 2007-2017 The Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod has, since its very beginning in the 1850s, been a church dedicated to Christian Education. Even today LC-MS schools together constitute the largest Protestant parochial school system in the United States. Immanuel Lutheran, Scranton, followed the traditional Lutheran church start when Rev. Sattelmeier organized and taught its school. Early in the 20th century Immanuel built a dedicated school building across the street from the church, moving out of the church basement. There are even church members living today who went to that school before it was closed in 1941. In some ways, a Lutheran parochial school here in Scranton does have precedent. However, for most Peace members of recent years, the idea of Lutheran education was not a valued idea - or perceived need. As the Academy is growing and being blessed, perhaps this is slowly changing.

Although there had been casual discussions about the possibility of establishing an elementary school early in the 2000s, there was no real way forward until Roger Borchin, a son of the Immanuel congregation, moved back to the Scranton area after retiring from almost 30 years of Lutheran School teaching and administration. He and his wife Jane (also a Lutheran school teacher) were the moving force behind the launch of the Immanuel Lutheran Preschool about 2004. After that was established and running smoothly, he had time and energy to partner with Peace Lutheran to establish an elementary school.

Starting in 2006, discussions were held between Peace and Immanuel to partner together on the Academy start. Immanuel had to be involved at the very least because it had what Peace did not: a space sufficient for the school. Amazingly, the lower level space under the sanctuary that Immanuel's school started in over a century ago - was now available to be used again as a school.

A board of interested supporters was formed from both Peace and Immanuel. Under Roger Borchin and Pastor Bjornstad's leadership, by-laws were added to the Peace constitution and the Peace congregation gave the green light to go forward with the ministry plans. In August Mrs. Angela Scheller was hired as the first teacher. Mrs. Scheller had recently moved from California where she had been teaching in an Episcopal church school. God truly blessed our school with her faithful teaching for five years.

It should be noted that none of this could have happened without Roger Borchin's most dedicated support. He gladly took on the role of Principal and worked almost full time hours every day for four years - keeping everything running smoothly. His only pay was seeing each child well served with an excellent education.

The best way to characterize The Lutheran Academy in the early years was that it was something of a glorified homeschool for poor neighborhood kids that needed an alternative to the public schools and a chance to break the cycle of poverty. One family we served had suffered the loss of their home by fire. Other kids came to the Academy having been been chased out of the public school because of bullying. Other kids came from troubled homes that Pastor Bjornstad knew from the neighborhood. He would get permission from the parents to educate them. Unfortunately it was a very difficult way forward because very few had any money for tution. Parents, in many cases, could not support their children's education. Not counting these external problems, though, the Academy was a wonderful and safe place for young students to grow in their understanding of the world - and of their relationship with God. 48

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Monica Bjornstad, Angela Scheller, Roger Borchin

Lori Mandile, part time teacher who later replaced Angela Scheller as Principal in 2012

Academy located at Immanuel Lutheran

First day of class 2007 (with 4 year old Sarah Bjornstad as special guest student.)

The One Room School House

Academy students @2009

"When I was growing up, there was a rural town, about an hour away from my home, that we used to pass through on our way to other places. Right on the main road was a one-room school house. It was literally little and red, and it was actually the public school for that area. I was a huge "Little House on the Prairie" fan and I thought that must be the sweetest, happiest school I could imagine. I used to pray that someday, when I became a teacher, God would direct me to a happy, one-room school house, just like I imagined that one to be.

When I did grow up and become a teacher, I was taken completely by surprise when God answered that prayer. I was overcome with gratitude. That ď„Žirst year at The Lutheran Academy was the sweetest, happiest school year I could possibly imagine. It was like being given a second family, my four, then ď„Žive, then six students and me. We spent warm days outside on a picnic blanket, eating our lunches, reading the classics, and practicing Latin. We spent cold days drinking hot chocolate and writing stories of amazing adventures. Those children had wonderful and inspiring imaginations!

It was truly a gift, to be a part of such a school from the beginning. It was a gift to bond with those children and their families. It was a gift to watch them grow and learn, become friends with one another, and to share their talents and dreams with each other. Being a part of that year, and my four that followed, is an experience that I will always treasure, and I will always be amazed and in awe that God was willing to bestow such a blessing on me....

- Angela Scheller, Lutheran Academy's teacher 2007-2012

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The Lutheran Academy Grows with the purchase of the Lutheran Ministry Center: After spending eight years operating at the graciously provided space at Immanuel, God opened an exceedingly large door for the Academy to grow beyond its comfort zone. The reality had become apparent as the years went by: As welcoming and wonderful as the facility at Immanuel was, the one room school house model, with a maximum student body of 18, was too radical for most parents. If you visited the school, not only was it was hard to imagine how everything operated, but the facility itself did not look like a school. All of this took away the chance for the school to attract students from families that could pay a tuition fee and finance the school.

With the purchase of the former Trinity Baptist Church on April 1, 2015, a facility only a mile away from Peace, the real opportunity to make a bigger impact toward the mission of the school had arrived. But even as the staff and students were exceedingly pleased to move into their new facility the fall of 2015, the move did not come without its stresses.

The biggest challenge and prayer was that God would provide the necessary growth that would be needed to help sustain not only our second full time teacher, but the overhead of the building and the utilities. The Academy could operate so cheaply at Immanuel because of the $1400/yr. rent paid - with no obligation for heat and lights, etc. Now money for overhead and utilities would have to come from somewhere.

OUR SCHOOL MISSION: To build up the lives of God’s children through the training up of their mind, body and Christian faith; that every child might become lifelong learners, equipped to serve Jesus in their lives of service to mankind.

God has provided a good measure of growth and revenue streams. These provide hope that the school can make a way forward without relying too heavily on subsidy from Peace Lutheran Church. Praise God for all His benefits!

The one powerful fact that propels the Academy forward and underlines its importance is that it is presently the only non-Catholic parochial school in Scranton. There are outlying schools in Clarkes Summit, Lake Ariel and Old Forge, but none close to the city center.

As of this writing, God is blessing the Academy mightily at the Lutheran Ministry Center. It had a student body of 14 the last year at Immanuel ((2014-15). The first year at the Lutheran Ministry Center the student body increased to 19. This present year of 2016-17 it is 24 students. A student body of 30 is our goal for 2017-18.

Lower grade classroom.

Ms. Heather Luklanchuk Principal/Teacher grades 1-4

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Mrs. Jessica Canjar grades 5-8

What I thank God most for about my years at the Academy was that I had somewhere I felt safe when my family was falling apart. At that time my parents were separating. I learned so many interesting things and I didn't get picked on the way I did in public school.

- Laura (Hartsgrove) Lysak. Laura was one of the very first students of the Academy.

She is now married, manages a store, and has a small child!

This school is such a treasure to this area. We especially love how close-knit the group of students and teachers are. The music program is exceptional, the curriculum is excellent, and the teachers are absolutely wonderful, helpful, caring people.

- Kate Hughes, parent Demonstrating the growth of the Academy: 2016 Annual Festival of Lessons and Carols.

Staf pictured left: Ms. Laird (part time), Rev. Bjornstad, Mrs. Canjar, Ms. Luklanchuk, Mr. Carsten Bjornstad

The Impressive Aspects of The Lutheran Academy's Classical Christian Curriculum: + Experienced, Certified, and Christian teaching staff. + Christ-centered curriculum with daily devotions. + Low tuition rates compared with other parochial schools + Frequent field trips to experience concerts. + Music Theory, voice and instrumental instruction. + Qualified Art instruction. + Orchestra as well as voice and bell choirs.

+ Latin instruction begins in grade three. + Grammar instruction through grade eight. + Cursive writing instruction. + Bible, Church History and Theology classes. + Extensive writing assignments and competitions. + Strong math instruction throughout including Algebra. + Extensive memory assignments every week.

Classical and Lutheran Education...

Classical Education develops wisdom, eloquence, and virtue through the formative elements of the liberal arts while nurturing a child in the historic Christian faith. Classical and Lutheran virtue includes humility, as the child who studies Latin or Greek is not to think of himself more highly than the child who does not. Instead, the child can give thanks to His heavenly Father for the education he receives from God’s own divine fatherly goodness and mercy. Classical education cultivates virtue for earthly citizenship. Lutheran educators confess and teach that only the Holy Spirit grants faith in Christ Jesus, and in Him alone is righteousness for heavenly citizenship.

From the "Consortium for Classical Lutheran Education" website. For a historical view of classical and Lutheran education, see Dr. Thomas Korcok’s Lutheran Education: From Wittenberg to the Future, CPH. 51

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The Lutheran Ministry Center Purchased April 1, 2015

Lutheran Ministry Center 1546 Monsey Ave. Scranton, PA

In the picture above, Chad Tyk (President, seated on right) and Jerry Cornog (Trustee) signed the purchase papers for Peace, while Rev. Ginger Daubenhauser (seated on left) signed for Trinity Baptist Church as the seller. Also present were Chuck Mercer, Amy Betts, Susan Crosbie, Ramona Brown, Rev. Bjornstad, as well as Grace Morris and Elsie Schweitzer from Peace. Roger Borchin (member at Immanuel and founding Principal of the Academy), as well as the treasurer of Trinity Baptist, an oicial from the Baptist synod, as well as lawyers and their staf.

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How the Lutheran Ministry Center came to Peace Lutheran.

From the February 2015 church newsletter, Pastor Bjornstad recounted the events leading up to, and including, the congregational vote to purchase the Lutheran Ministy Center:

The miracle of how the Lutheran Ministry Center came to us did not stop there.

Not only did a total of more than $60,000 in donations come in to support the purchase and renovation of the building, but the Lutheran Church Extention Fund also was able to extend a $50,000 loan. As well, over the summer of 2015, teams of congregational members, and even members from Grace Lutheran (Hop Bottom) and Immanuel came and helped clean, renovate, and then move the Academy into the LMC.

Nothing like having our church highjacked by the Lord! The Christmas rush was over and this pastor wanted to get his oice cleaned. He was looking for some time of - as well as getting settled as the vacancy pastor at Immanuel. Everything was well in order and calm. We were supposed to have a congregational meeting in January to establish some plans and goals for our 100th Anniversary, so he was going to be doing a lot of thinking and praying on that...

On May 31st, 2015 over 170 members and friends came from all over the area to dedicate the building for the furthering of the Gospel and the education of a new generation of young Christian men and women. It was truly a grand event with a fabulous banquet in the LMC fellowship hall and sanctuary. Clergy from several congregations were present, and Rev. Chris Wicher, Eastern District President proclaimed God's Word.

But then a discussion with a Pastor Daubenhauser took place [pastor of the Trinity Baptist Church which had just held its closing service]. She shared her strong leading from the Lord that Peace needed to purchase a building she was charged with selling. It was an amazing property of a church and education building - perfect for our Academy. Suddenly life for this pastor and the congregation took an amazing turn! Literally in a matter of 3 1/2 weeks (there was a deadline of Feb. 1!) everything fell into place to have the congregation vote to purchase this building on January 25th.

It was deinitely a miracle of the Lord as the vote was almost unanimous. The property we are purchasing is the former Trinity Baptist Church in the Greenridge section of town, about 1 mile away from Peace. It was most deinitely an answer to prayer for the board of The Lutheran Academy who had just deined plans in November to expand our Academy to two teachers and increase our student body but had nowhere to expand TO. Incredibly, Pastor Daubenhauser convinced her church body to let us purchase it for $75,000 - even though there was a cash ofer of $160,000. Her fervent desire was that the house that God’s people built would continue as a house of God and a center of wonderful ministry and outreach (instead of apartments or a Hindu Temple). She had sent her daughter to The Lutheran Academy several years ago and knew about Peace Lutheran Church and how The Lord was working through us. She was convinced that our church and Academy - with God’s grace and mercy - would accomplish God’s will there.

The vote on January 25th was quite emotional. Not everyone had been in favor the week before in our meeting together. It was plain that this was a very large endeavor and that we are inadequate in and of ourselves to take this project on. In the end congregational members were inally convinced that enough measures were taken to keep Peace church safe from any troubles with the project. Amazingly it was reported before the vote that $21,000 had been pledged by individuals and that Grace Lutheran Church in Hop Bottom, PA (30 minutes north of Scranton) had just voted to pledge another $5000! Ballots were illed out and we all gathered together holding hands as the results of the vote were announced by Chad Tyk our church president. We all sang the Doxology with true thanksgiving in our hearts. On the ballots voters could make additional pledges as well, and it was also announced that ANOTHER $9000 in pledges had been made (for a total of $35,000!) To God be all the glory! Nothing more to say!

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Those Who Served Our Nation

Harry Rogal, WWII

As mentioned elsewhere, our nation has called on the men and women of this nation in time of war and in defense of our nation and its liberties. In World War II that meant 47 of our men served - and miraculously every one of them returned!

ALL of our servicemen deserve every honor and thanks... but there is at least one of them who could be counted a true war hero: Harry Rogal. Rogal married Ruth Camin, daughter of Rev. Camin. He was buried from Peace on June 8, 2013 with full military honors. He flew 86 missions over Europe - all with the same P-47. In a letter from the Adjutant General of the War Department dated October 3, 1945, it is stated that 1st Lt. Harry Rogal demonstrated undaunting bravery when he burst out from under clouds on D-Day, flying lower than 3,000 feet and successfully dive bombed and strafed a hostile (German) strongpoint enabling U.S. ground troops to advance into Germany immediately. Later in the war he straffed General Romell's motorcade as it traveled! Jerry: 1962-76 Air force... Vietnam 66-67

Let us pray. Lord of the nations and King of the universe, we give you profound thanks for all those who answer the call at this time to serve and defend our nation. Bless these men and women with a holy blessing that will sustain them in the face of whatever may come. Bless as well our nation, its leaders and its military services that truth, justice, and liberty may prevail and prosper by your aid. For you are the God of blessings and providence, the Source of all good, the Sustainer of our lives, and to you belongs all praise and glory, through your Son Jesus Christ, now and forever. Amen

Ed Smith, served 1970-1976

Ruth and Frieda Monske, WWII Navy Nurses

Ken Mercer, WWII

Jerry Cornog, '66-67 Vietnam 1962-76 Air Force

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Ky Betts, Iraq

The Personalities of Peace

Kevin Wolverton driving the van for the parade!

Emil Leja: a leader in the church for many years.

Emma and Cy McPhee

Elwood Eidinger lived and even died in the church

"Who can describe the bond of God's love? Who is able to explain the majesty of its beauty? The height to which love leads is indescribable … .

In love the master received us. Jesus Christ our Lord, in accordance with God's will, gave his blood for us, and his lesh for our lesh, and his life for our lives."

—Clement of Rome (c. 96)

Elsie Schweitzer: mother of the church.

Dan Jierski - custodian and leader of the church.

Rick Hellard and Jerry Cornog - the happy worker bees!

Arlen Sauter, faithful saint of the congregation.

Mac McKeen and Stanley Brown (honorary members of the Ladies Guild) with Rita Hodgson

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Schweitzer Family: Lorraine Pensak, Elsie Schweitzer, Carolyn Bryzowski, (Marshall and) Grace Morris, Lillian Wheeler

Frieda Monske with Ernie Kent and Lona Lisowski

Helen (Camin) Gagern, Evelyn (Camin) Pirson, Dr. Herbert Pirson, Henry and Rae Camin.

Our loving Anita Holzmann caring for ď„Žire victims of a neighboring apartment building.

Kevin Winters, our church organist for many years, ď„Žlanked by Chuck Mercer and Lillian Colbert.

100th Birthday of Anna Herman, with Catherine, Elwood and Frieda (last of the Korban children.)

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The extrodinary Doc Monske.

Chiropractor, violinist, artist, and churchman

The Church's foundation is unshakable and irm against the assaults of the raging sea. Waves lash at the Church but do not shatter it. Although the elements of this world constantly batter and crash against her, she ofers the safest harbor of salvation for all in distress. —Ambrose (339-397)

The young Mercer clan on a snowy Easter Sunday!

Our Dearest Audrey Russell

The Schweitzer and Korban families. Note the picture of Jacob and Katie Korban (second couple from the right, standing) - only picture of these founding couple.

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Jim Calpin: Trustee and COOK!

John Tugend and Catherine (Korban) - ď„Žirst couple married in the new Peace Church, 1929.

Faithful Ramona Brown

Amazing women of the church: (Rev. Bjornstad), Norma Duddek, Audrey Russel, Frieda Monske, Betty McKeen, Elsie Schweitzer

Charlie and Lee Ann Duddek family, for many years leaders at Peace.

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Millie Schack, faithful saint.

To God be the Glory!

Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the irst heaven and the irst earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.” And he said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment.

Rev. 21:1-6

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INDEX

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INDEX

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