Grace Notes
September 8, 2024
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Centenary Contemplations IX by Laura 1955
The summer of 1955 was a busy and exciting one, as Grace planned for the dedication of its second church home. The brand-new building was quite different from the sacred space we know and love today. Imagine, first of all, no education wing and gym. The main entrance was through the heavy oak doors at the top of the double set of steps outside. The entire floor was covered in dark linoleum. One rose window graced the chancel, the only stained glass. The chancel was full, having the organ in an alcove on the left; the choir sat in pews on both left and right, below the altar. The communion rail was on the lowest step below the altar. There was no sound system. The fellowship hall and kitchen were in the basement. Perhaps most satisfying for the congregation was the fact that over 400 people could be seated in the solid oak pews in the nave.
On July 3, 1955, a communion service of thanksgiving was held in the morning, with the dedication service taking place at 3:00 PM. It was a joyous occasion, with numerous visiting clergy and a large choir. The assembled crowd processed into the sanctuary through the west doors. The congregation was blessed to host Dr. J. W. Behnken, the President of Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, as the guest preacher for the afternoon. He preached on Genesis 28:10-22, the account which tells about Jacob’s dream of God’s rich promises, and his dedication of the stone on which he slept as Bethel—the house of God. A supper was served by the Ladies’ Aid following the service, and the evening concluded with an organ recital by Professor L. H. Nichols, who had directed the choir in the dedication service. It was a full and happy day!
At some point after the dedication, a large sign was erected on the front lawn. It displayed a new name for all passers-by to see: GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH. Pastor Bruer had been instrumental in persuading the members that “English” no longer had a place in the congregation’s official designation. With a new building came a subtle new change in the congregational identity. The members of Grace forged ahead, seeking God’s guidance as they fit into their new neighbourhood.
Source: Bentsen, Barbara: Growing in Grace: A History of Grace Lutheran Church, Edmonton, Alberta. Uvisco Press, 1984
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