AYTON – Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church at 552 Louisa St., Ayton will be celebrating its 70th Anniversary on June 4.
There has always been a strong Lutheran presence in the village of Ayton dating back to the late 1860’s, church officials note in a press release.
There were two active congregations, Zion Lutheran and St. John’s Lutheran. In 1950, both congregations expressed the desire to become one congregation. They worshipped together in alternate buildings until 1953 with the ground breaking for the new Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church. Zion’s building was then sold and moved to Teeswater and St. John’s was ultimately torn down.
The service of dedication for the new church was held on June 4, 1953. A pipe organ was purchased from the Keates Organ Company in 1960, with the accompanying chimes being installed later.
Trinity’s simple but pleasing Gothic style originally had a seating capacity for 450. Over the past 70 years, Trinity has hosted concerts, meetings, supported the community and welcomed those in spiritual and physical need and always offers a welcoming worship service.
It has an active Sunday School, a growing Youth Group, Women of Faith, and Choir just to mention a few of the groups found under its roof.
Trinity is celebrating 70 years of faith with two upcoming events.
On April 23 at 2pm, there will be a concert of sacred music featuring nationally-renowned organist, Angus Sinclair and internationally-renowned bass-baritone, Daniel Lichti.
“The concert is guaranteed to make the organ sing and the rafters ring,” organizers state.
Admission is by donation.
The actual 70th Anniversary Celebration Service will be held on June 4 at 2pm. There will be a church dinner following the service. For more information, call the Trinity Manse at 519-665-7577.
