Bethel to host 550 Lutherans

By Trisha Marczak (Contact) | The Daily Journal

Published Friday, June 13, 2008

The Fergus Falls area is preparing to host 550 religious representatives from around the country.

Representatives of the Lutheran Brethren Denomination will gather at the national headquarters in Fergus Falls this week for the church’s annual national convention and women’s ministries convention.

Some 550 delegates, including pastors, women’s ministry members and parishioners are expected to attend this year’s conventions at Bethel Lutheran Church. Events begin on Sunday and last until Wednesday.

The convention is a homecoming for many who attended seminary in Fergus Falls.

“In many ways, this is kind of like a big family reunion,” said Director of Congregation Relations, Rev. Stan Olsen.

Attendees meet annually to discuss various church issues and to appoint leaders to various department spheres. Delegates for leaders in world missions, education, publishing and North American missions will be voted on.

Sessions will take place throughout the day, and will be followed by services each evening. All events are open to the public.

The convention typically takes place in Fergus Falls, but has been held at various other locations throughout the years.

“We have churches, for the most part, in every region,” Olsen said.

Five area hotels have blocked off sections of their hotels to make room for the crowd.

“I think we take up a fair amount of hotel space,” Olsen said.

Local members of Bethel Lutheran will be opening their homes to convention visitors.

Attendees also plan on taking advantage of the outdoor beauty and tourist destinations that Fergus Falls has to offer.

“They’ll have some fun while they’re here,” Olsen said.

For more information on daily services, contact Bethel Lutheran Church at 218-736-5654.