This page will provide newspaper accounts of BLC's community outreach, most in conjunction with many of the cities other churches or other churches in the area, from 1932 through 1942. I highly believe God awarded BLC due to these type of activities with a tremendous growth in the 1950's and 1960's. For these outreach to have happen members of this and the previous congregations had to have a heart for God's word. They had to have loved Him and wanted to serve Him in spreading the Gospel. So I have included many of the major programs and events for those years.

Morris Churches Announce Week Of Prayer, Oct. 2 to 8
(Morris Daily Herald Thursday September 22, 1932)
Nightly services Will Be Conducted In Link With National
Move

Morris churches will join in a national movement for a week of penitence and prayer to be observed by the pastors and the people of the churches of the United States, Oct. 2-8. It was announced today by Rev. Eldon Wenzel of the Federated church, who will lead the first weekday service in the Baptist church, Oct. 3.

In many areas within the church there is urgent desire for a religious awakening, he said. On every hand thoughtful Christians feel that the root of our troubles is moral and spiritual. All laws are moral laws and while we cannot trace their workings, of one thing we are sure, that out of the past has come the present. We reap what we sow.

"We have worshipped at shrines of false gods - the false god of mammon, things; the false god of power, production, bigness; the false god of nationalism, individualism, social injustice; the false god of pleasure, amusement, disregard for things sacred; the false god of success, high living, careless thinking; the false god of magic, reaping where we had not sowed, profiting where we had not toiled."

"The church dares not stand aside and whisper peace either to itself or to the nation when there is no peace. Only a nation turning to God in repentance and moral restitution, seeking His divine forgiveness will restore the spiritual health of our people. We have looked for signs of repentance and the fruits thereof. We have not seen them. On every hand there is a demand for prosperity but little evident desire to return to the ways of faith and prayer. The times are giving us moral discipline. God waits on man's response. No social or political revival can come out of spiritual destitution, and no national awaking can arise out of religious indifference. The only adequate way is the way of Christ and the Cross."

"We therefore call upon our people to give themselves by an act of will, personally and corporately, in penitence and prayer to Almighty God."

"And in order to secure the spirit of fellowship in united intercession Oct. 2, as a time when pastors and people, shall search their hearts and conduct, and by personal dedication and public service appointed to meet the need of the hour, discover for themselves and for the nation the way to peace and power."

The schedule for the Morris churches is as follows:

Sunday, Oct. 2: "The Examined Life," services in all the churches.

Monday, Oct. 3: "Penitence," Eldon W. Wenzel, Baptist church.

Tuesday, Oct. 4: "Confession" Mrs. Sadie Hill, Federated church.

Wednesday, Oct. 5: "Acknowledging God's Sovereignty," Herbert W. Piercy, Methodist church.

Thursday, Oct. 6: "Prayer," Edward G. Schultz, Baptist church.

Friday, Oct. 7: "Consecration," C. M. Hanson, Lutheran church.

NEWS
CHURCHES
Bethlehem Lutheran
(Morris Daily Herald Tuesday October 4, 1932)

Noon day prayer meeting will be held in the Bethlehem Lutheran church from 12:30 to 12:55, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. All are invited to attend. Come in your working clothes.

Come to pray that God may accomplish His purpose through this week of penitence and prayer. Let this great need of our land be such a matter of importance for you that you will be willing to make a special effort to gather in this way to unite in asking God's Spirit to work mightily to bring about repentance in the hearts of our people.

Bible Conference In Lutheran Church
(Morris Daily Herald Friday May 25, 1934)

A Bible conference will open in Bethlehem Lutheran church Sunday evening at 7:45, in which members of the churches in adjoining communities will be conducted each evening until Friday night.

Rev. A. W. Knock of the Lutheran Bible Institution at Minneapolis, Minn., will be in charge of the conference. Rev. Knock spoke two years ago at Helmar in a Luther league convention and is remembered as an interesting instructor.

Bible Conference Is Opened Here
(Morris Daily Herald Monday May 28, 1934)

Rev. A. W. Knock of the Lutheran Bible Institution at Minneapolis, Minn., opened a Bible conference in Bethlehem Lutheran church last evening at 7:45, which will continue each evening this week until Friday.

A large congregation greeted the visiting pastor last evening. During this week members of Lutheran churches in the adjoining communities are expected to join in the meetings.

Lutherans To Hold Conference Here
(Morris Daily Herald Monday April 30, 1934)

A prophetic conference will be held in the Bethlehem Lutheran church at Morris, June 15-20. A committee has been at work for many weeks making arrangements. Those of the vicinity of Morris who have acted on the committee are Rev. C. M. Hanson Rev. C. A. Hauge, Rev. L. L. Masted, Rev. Nils Klungtvedt, H. H. Weeks, Forrest Christian, Rev. A, O. Mortvedt of Joliet and Rev. Allen R. Blegen.

These have acted in co-operation with a number of brethren from Chicago who are definitely committed to the full support of the prophetic conference. Pastor of the Swedish Lutheran group in Chicago and vicinity will appear on the program. The complete program will be released in a few days.

Members of the Bethlehem Lutheran church, the Hauge's Lutheran church, the Lisbon Bethlehem Lutheran church and the Lisbon parish will provide lodging and breakfast for the visitors from a distance. Sessions will be held in the afternoon and evening of each day. Sunday, June 17, three services will be held.

Lutherans To Hold Conference Here
(Morris Daily Herald Wednesday June 6, 1934)

A "Prophetic Conference" will be held here in the Bethlehem Lutheran church, Rev. C. M. Hanson, pastor, beginning June 15 and closing June 20. All are urged and invited to attend.

The program will be as follows:

Friday, June 15, 2 o'clock, devotions Rev. T. J. Knutson, Ottawa; "Looking Upwards," Rev. Arthur Lawrence, Bethany Lutheran (N. L. C. A.) church, Leland. Services at 7:45, "What I Believe About the Lord's Return," Rev. Victor Peterson, Emmanuel (N. L. C. A.) Lutheran church, Abercrombie, N. D.

Saturday, 2 o'clock, devotions, Dr. A. O. Mortvedt, Joliet; "The Resurrections," Rev. O. H. Nelson, Bethany (Augustana) Lutheran church, Chicago. Service at 7:45, "God's Sign Language," Rev. A. R. Blegen, Bethlehem (N. L. C. A.) Lutheran church, Lisbon.

Sunday, 10:45, "Christ's Earth Convulsing Return," Rev. Victor Peterson, Afternoon service, 2 o'clock, "The Jew's Sensational Age Ending," Rev. I. H. Aronson, Elmwood. Evening service, 7:30, "The Spirit World," Rev. T. L. Rydbeck, Messiah (Augustana) Lutheran church, Chicago.

Monday, 2 o'clock, devotional, Rev. Nils Klungtvedt, Lisbon; "The Amazing Final Seven Years" Rev. J. A. Parkander, Adolphus (Augustana) church, Chicago. Evening service, 7:45, "The Marriage Supper and the Wedding," Rev August Aden, Grace (Augustana) Lutheran church, Rankin.

Tuesday, 2 o'clock devotional, Rev. C. A. Hauge, Seneca; "The Beast and the False Prophet," Rev. Carl G. Okerbloom, Calvary (Augustana) Lutheran church, New Windsor. Evening service, 7:45, "The Seventy sevens," Rev. T. L. Rydbeck.

Wednesday, 2 o'clock devotional, Rev. A Lawrence, Leland; "If You Were Living in the Golden Age," Rev. Elmer Peters, First Lutheran (Augustana) church, Princeton. Evening service 7:45, "The City Four-Square," Rev. L. L. Masted, Newark (N. L. C. A.) Lutheran church, Newark.

Lutherans Open 6-Day Prophetic Conference Here
(Morris Daily Herald Friday June 15, 1934)

The Spiritual Life Prophetic conference at the Bethlehem Lutheran church opened this afternoon at 2 o'clock. The conference will continue through next Wednesday, with afternoon and evening services each day except Sunday, when there will be three services.

The week day program will be presented at 2 o'clock and 7:45, while Sunday services will be at 10:45 in the morning, at 2 o'clock in the afternoon and 7:45 in the evening.

Rev. T. J. Knutson of Ottawa opened this afternoon session with devotionals and the sermon on the theme "Looking Upward" by Rev. C. M. Hanson, pastor of the local church.

Tonight at 7:45 Rev. Victor Peterson of Emmanuel Lutheran church of Abercrombie, N. D., will preach on the topic, "What I believe About the Lord's Return."

Saturday Service

Saturday afternoon, Dr. A. O. Mortvedt of Joliet will have charge of devotions at 2 o'clock and the sermon will be on "The Resurrections," by Rev. O. H. Nelson, pastor of Bethany Lutheran church in Chicago. The evening service at 7:45 will be in charge of Rev. A. R. Blegen of Bethlehem Lutheran church of Lisbon, who will preach on "God's Sign Language."

Rev. C. M. Hanson, pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran church here, which is host to the conference, in discussing the study of people said:

"There are those who insist that the study of the prophetic word in God's book is not in harmony with the will of God. They speak of prophecy concerning the "Last Times" as definitely sealed, and therefore also regard the Book of Revelation as a sealed book. There are some justifiable reasons why some fear this study, one being that some have been so ready to go beyond what the Word teaches, and have built up fantastic views concerning the Second Coming both as to the time and manner of His coming. Still this should not hinder an honest study of this part of God's revealed will. He has himself expressly warned against this type of study of the Word. The other reason seems to be the quotation from Daniel 12:4 where God instructs Daniel to shut up the words and seal the book."

"Let Us just look at a few of the words of God concerning the study of prophecy and the possibilities of the children of God understanding them. First of all remember that the duration of the time that the book would be sealed is clearly indicated in Daniel: even in the time of the end. Then you notice that in the Book of Revelation did God, in contrast to closing the book declare "Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of the prophecy and keep the things that are written therein." Now please talk not of the words that follow: for the time is at hand."

"The same statement is repeated with promise of a blessing in 22:7. God does not forbid the study of prophecy but rather promises a blessing upon those who study it carefully by the guidance of the Holy Spirit, I John 16:13. Then one more thing and that concerning the name of the book. I refer to the book that sums up prophecy namely "Revelations." The name is taken from the first chapter and the first verse! "The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show unto his servants, even the things which must shortly come to pass. It is not called a sealed book, but rather an open book."

"The church needs this revelation for the tests which it must go through. Surely, Satan does not want the church to look into it. His work is to shield our spiritual eyes so that we shall nor see the glory of Christ in His revealed truths."

Worshippers Fill Lutheran Church For Conferences
(Morris Daily Herald Saturday June 16, 1934)
To Shift Meetings Sunday To Auditorium In Center School
FINISH WEDNESDAY

Services in the Lutheran Prophetic conference, which opened here yesterday in Bethlehem Lutheran church, will be shifted Sunday to the main auditorium in Center school. The congregations have been so large that it was feared the church would not be large enough for the three services Sunday.

Two sessions were held yesterday. Rev. T. J. Knutson of Ottawa, Rev. C. M. Hanson, pastor of the local church and Rev. Victor Peterson of Abercrombie, N. D., conducted the discussion.

Two services will be held again today. At 2 o'clock Dr. A. O. Mortvedt of Joliet will conduct the devotional and Rev. O. H. Nelson of Bethany Lutheran church Chicago, will preach on "The Resurrections." In the evening at 7:45 Rev. A. R. Blegen of Bethlehem Lutheran church of Lisbon will preach on "God's Sign Language."

Three services will be held Sunday. The morning worship will be at 10:45 and the sermon will be given by Rev. Peterson of North Dakota, the topic, "Christ's Earth Convulsing Return."

At the afternoon session at 2 o'clock, Rev. L. H. Aronson of Elmwood will speak on "The Jew's Sensational Age Ending."

The evening service will be held at 7:30 and the sermon, "The Spirit World," will be given by Rev. T. L. Rydbeck of Messiah Lutheran church, Chicago.

Two services daily at 2 o'clock and 7:45 will be held again Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, which will be the concluding day of the conference.

The services today were to be held in Bethlehem Lutheran church. During the meeting place for the remainder of the conference will be announced.

Large Congregations At Conferences
(Morris Daily Herald Monday June 18, 1934)

Three large congregations gathered Sunday to attend the sessions of the Spiritual Life Prophetic Conference of the Lutheran churches of this community, which here held in the Center school auditorium.

This afternoon Rev. J. A. Parkander of Gustavus Adolphus Lutheran church of Chicago delivered the sermon on the subject "The Amazing Final seven Years," in the session held in the Lutheran church auditorium after Rev. T. J. Knutson of Ottawa had led in the devotions.

This evening at 7:45 another session will be held in the church when Rev. August Aden of the Grace Lutheran church of Rankin will preach on the theme "The Marriage Supper and the Wedding."

It is also planned to conduct the Tuesday and Wednesday services in the church auditorium but should that building prove unable to care for the attendance, the services will be moved to the Center school auditorium.

Rev. C. A. Hauge of Seneca will be in charge of Tuesday afternoon devotions and the sermon will be by Rev. Carl O. Okerbloom of Calvary Lutheran church at New Windsor. Rev. T. L. Rydbeck of the Messiah church in Chicago will preach Tuesday evening on "The Seventy Seven."

Wednesday will be the closing day of the conference and during the afternoon Rev. Elmer Peters of First church in Princeton will discuss the theme "If You Were Living in the Golden Age." Rev. L. L. Masted of Newark will preach the closing sermon Wednesday night on "The City Four-Square."

Lutheran Conference To Close Tomorrow
(Morris Daily Herald Tuesday June 19, 1934)

The Spiritual Life conference of the Lutheran churches of this community which will close Wednesday evening and has been in session since last Friday, continues today to attract large audiences to Bethlehem Lutheran church.

Rev. C. A. Hauge of Seneca will lead the devotions tomorrow afternoon and Rev. Elmer Peters of Princeton will deliver the sermon on the subject, "If You Were Living in the Golden Age." Rev. L. L. Masted of Newark will deliver the closing sermon at 7:45 tomorrow night on the theme "The City Four-Square."

At noon today the visiting clergymen and several guests enjoyed a picnic dinner in Goold Park. An honored guest was Re. F. O. Sigmund of New York city.

Rev. T. L. Rydbeck of Chicago will preach tonight at 7:45 on the subject "The Seventy Seven."

Lutheran Conference To Be Ended Tonight
(Morris Daily Herald Wednesday June 20, 1934)

The Lutheran Spiritual Life Prophetic conference will close tonight in Bethlehem Lutheran church unless attendance should be so great that the church cannot accommodate it and in that event the Center school auditorium will be used.

Rev. L. L. Masted of Newark will preach the closing sermon "The City Four-Square." This afternoon Rev. A Lawrence of Leland was in charge of devotions and Rev. Elmer Peters of Princeton preached on the theme, "If You Were Living In the Golden Age."

The attendance at the conference since its opening Friday afternoon has been greater than expectation and the auditorium of the church has been well filled each evening. Sunday three services were conducted in the school auditorium when the church was found too small.

The conference has been sponsored by Bethlehem Lutheran church. Rev. C. M. Hanson, pastor, and the churches of surrounding communities for the purpose of deepening the spiritual life and extension of the Kingdom through a study of God's prophetic word.

Conference Here Closed Today
(Morris Daily Herald Thursday June 21, 1934)

The Spiritual Life Prophetic conference closed in Bethlehem Lutheran church last evening with a congregation that packed the auditorium.

Rev. C. M. Hanson, pastor of the local church which sponsored the conference, said today that its success far exceeded any expectations and was so enthusiastically supported that the movement is planned to continue as a "Bible Movement." A rally meeting is planned for this fall to organize.

The six afternoons and evenings during which sessions were conducted saw visitors in the conference who came from a great distances and represented many churches in surrounding states.

Special music was rendered during the services yesterday afternoon and evening by Rev. C. M. Hanson and Rev. Arthur Lawrence of Leland.

To Conduct Radio Service Sunday
(Morris Daily Herald Wednesday August 1, 1934)

Bethlehem Lutheran church will be in charge of the religious hour program over radio station WLSC at Joliet next Sunday afternoon at 5 o'clock central standard time.

Vocal selections will be given by Mrs. Roy Kindelspire, Mrs. Carl Pierce and Mrs. Karl Aarrestad and the men's quartet, Rev. C. M. Hanson, J. B. Larson, Byron Amundson and Karl Aarrestad. Rev. Hanson will also deliver a short message during the half-hour program.

Local Church To Lead Radio Service
(Morris Daily Herald Saturday August 4, 1934)

Bethlehem Lutheran church will be in charge of the religious hour over radio station WCLS at Joliet Sunday afternoon with a half hour service to be broadcast at 5 o'clock Morris time.

Rec. C. M. Hanson will deliver a message on the theme "Take Heed Brethren" and during the service vocal selections will also be rendered by the ladies trio and the men's quartet of the church.

The trio is composed of Mrs. Carl Pierce, Mrs. Roy Kindelspire, and Mrs. Karl Aarrestad. The quartet includes Rev. Hanson, Dr. J. B. Larson, Byron Amundson and Karl Aarrestad.

Lutherans Plan To Sing Carols
(Morris Daily Herald Monday December 17, 1934)

A program of Christmas carols will be broadcast from the belfry of the Bethlehem Lutheran church Christmas eve, it was announced today when arrangements for the installation of loudspeakers was completed.

While choir of other churches are planning to visit the homes of many shut-ins in the city Christmas eve, the choir of the Lutheran church decided on the novel arrangement of broadcasting its carols over loudspeakers, which it is believed will carry the music throughout the city. In addition the facilities of the pipe organ will be pressed into service in pealing out the Christmas music.

The hour for the broadcast has not yet been announced, nor the program completed, but rehearsals are already under way and more details will be available later this week, Dr. J. B. Larson, director of the choir, has assured.

Church Filled For Christmas Day Service
(Morris Daily Herald Wednesday December 26, 1934)

The Christmas worship service in Bethlehem Lutheran church yesterday morning at 10:45 was attended by an audience that filled the auditorium of the building.

The service opened with a prelude "Silent Hills," played by Mrs. N. Lunde after which Rev. C. M. Hanson led in prayer and the congregation sang, "Come Hither Ye Faithful." The altar service was conducted and Rev. Hanson led in prayer after which there was an epistle lesson and confessions of faith.

The anthem, "Today There Is Ringing," was sung by the choir and the congregation sang, "A Great and Mighty Wonder."

Rev. Hanson gave as his sermon subject, "Thou Shalt Call His Name Jesus."

Two More hymns by the congregation, the anthem, "Behold I Bring You Good Tidings," and the offertory were followed by the closing altar service and Rev. Hanson dismissed the congregation with a benediction.

A Christmas Eve program was broadcast from the tower of Bethlehem Lutheran church Monday evening at 10 o'clock. Many where in the auditorium to listen in comfort and hundreds more paused on the streets of the city to hear all or part of the program.

The loud speakers in the church tower carried the sound to the east and west for a long distance and echoes rebounded from the taller buildings in Liberty street brought the sound there quite a distinctly.

The service opened with an organ prelude of Christmas music played by Miss Verna Nelson and Mrs. N. Lunde, after which the choir of about 30 voices sang a group of Christmas carols. Rev. C. M. Hanson, pastor of the church, who announced the program read the Christmas gospel after which Mrs. Roy Kindelspire sang a solo. More carols by choir and benediction by the pastor closed the program.

It was the first time that such a program had ever been broadcast in the city and met with such success that plans are being considered to repeat such a program next Christmas. The sound of the voices was carried for a distance of about eight blocks to the east and west and many in second story rooms in other parts of the city were able to listen to the service by opening windows.

The next article is out of sequence in the year but included to show that the above effort did have a impact on people and that the other churches like the idea enough to become part of it.

Christmas Carols To Sound Over City;
Churches Expand Services For Holiday
(Morris Daily Herald Monday December 18, 1939)

(Note: I have only included the part for Bethlehem Lutheran church)

Christmas carols will fill the air here tonight after 8 o'clock as the city goes into its last week of activities leading up the holiday. The caroling will be continued nightly at the same hour, at least through Thursday night, though the co-operation of local churches.

Tonight the choir of Bethlehem Lutheran church will sing at the church and those who find it impossible to go there to listen will be able to hear the carols in most any part of the city through the courtesy of the XL Radio shop. Microphones in the church will pick up the music which will be broadcast through two load speakers on the tower at the shop.

Similar programs will be given on Tuesday night by the Methodist choir; Wednesday night by the Federated church choir and Thursday night by the First Baptist church choir.

In Bethlehem Lutheran church a program will be given Friday night by the Sunday school, in which all classes will have part. Gifts will be distributed there also.

Lutheran Radio Hour Planned
(Morris Daily Herald Saturday March 9, 1935)

Rev. C. M. Hanson of Bethlehem Lutheran church, Morris and Rev. Allen Blegen, pastor of the Lisbon and Hauge congregations, will inaugurate a series of Tuesday evening radio programs next Tuesday night, March 12, from 5:30 to 6 o'clock, from radio station WCBD in Waukegan. The station broadcast on a frequency of 1080 kilocycles.

Rev. Hanson and Rev, Blegen are sponsoring the program themselves with assistance of free will offering, which may be sent to either of the pastors.

The program, known for the present as the "Lutheran Hour." May later be expanded. It will include speakers and singing and may later include guest artists. A name also will be selected for the program; two already suggested being "Lutheran Life" hour and "Lutheran Sunset" hour.

Lutheran Hour On Air Tonight
(Morris Daily Herald Tuesday March 19, 1935)

The second of the series of Lutheran Hour broadcasts over radio station, ZWCBD, 1080 kilocycles, will be given tonight from 5:30 until 6 o'clock by Rev. C. M. Hanson and Rev. A. R. Blegen.

Rev. Blegen will perform the duties of announcer tonight and the hour will open with the pastors singing the theme song, "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God." Announcements will be made by Rev. Blegen and then he will sing, "Come Ye Disconsolate." The Bible memory verse will be Rev. 21-7 and prayer given by Rev. Blegen.

Following the hymn, "Behold the Christian Warrior Stands," sung in duet by the pastors. Rev. C. M. Hanson will deliver the sermon. He has chosen for his topic, "We Preach Christ Crucified, Triumphing Over Satan."

The hymn, "Approach My Soul, the Merry Cease," and announcements will be followed by the closing theme song, "Day is Dying in the West."

This program ran for many many years under the direction of Rev. A. R. Blegen

The church realized that conducting the services in Norwegian language had to end, as the young people did not speak the language any more.

Lutherans To Cut Norwegian Services
(Morris Daily Herald Friday February 1, 1935)

At the meeting of the Lutheran church congregation here last night in the church. It was decided that four Norwegian services would be retired from the church calendar each year, one each quarter.

This procedure will in effect for three years at the end of which 12 Norwegian services will have been eliminated and then another meeting will be called to consider future action. The vote last night was 80 to 28 in favor of the plan.

Schedules of church services will be drawn up within a few days and the dates for Norwegian services will be announced.

Morris Center Of Worship For 2-Day Mission
(Morris Daily Herald October 12, 1936)

The national preaching mission, in which the churches of Morris are to cooperate, will be observed in two-day session, October 29 and 30 in a united attempt to bring about a spiritual awakening in America.

A group of foremost interpreters of the Christian gospel, both from our own country and from abroad, are associated in this type of evangelistic effort. Sustained by the prayers of the countless Christians of all denominations, they go together throughout the nation, using every available channel, both of great public meetings and of smaller conferences, to make a combined spiritual impact upon the communities they visit.

Morris has been chosen as a center to which a member of the preaching mission will be sent. The local ministers have chosen Dr. J. G. W. Ward, pastor of the First Presbyterian church of Oak Park, as the leader of the two-day preaching mission here. Dr. Ward is well known by the Christian laymen as well as the clergymen and will bring his vast knowledge and winning ability to our very doors.

The committee in charge of local affairs is comprised of Rev. W. F. Dick, pastor of the free Methodist church; Rev. C. M. Hanson, pastor of the Bethlehem Lutheran church; Rev. Ivan Obenshain, pastor of the first Methodist church; Rev. E. W. Wenzel, pastor of the Federation church and Rev. W. H. Nibbelink, pastor of the First Baptist church. This committee will work out the details of the sessions and will invite other churches of the county to participate in the conferences. Because of the fact that Morris has been chosen as the place to hold the two-day preaching mission, Joliet will not have one of its own, but will be invited to attend the one in Morris.

Centered Here

During the two days the meetings will be held with ministers, laymen, students, church and school workers, missionary workers, civil leaders, and other Christian workers in the community. In the evenings there will be mass meetings, open to the public, and to which every member and friend of the Christian church will be invited, as well as those who do not attend the churches. These meetings will be conducted in Morris, but large delegations from Joliet, Plainfield, Dwight, Coal City, Mazon, Minooka, Pontiac, Marseilles, Ottawa and elsewhere will be invited. It is anticipated that several hundred people will gather for the mass meetings on both nights.

All local churches have cancelled activities on both of these nights and ushers will be chosen from each church to assist with the seating of those who attend.

The pastors committee said of the work:

"Since it is not by might nor by power but by God's Spirit that such understanding as this is attempted, and can result in any measure of success, Christian everywhere are requested to pray earnestly that the blessing of God shall be upon the national and local preaching mission for the rebuilding in human lives of the foundations of Christian faith, and for the sturdy and swift revival of the religion in this time of crisis and the world's need.

Mission Objects

The object of the preaching mission are:

To strengthen the foundations of Christian faith on the part of every member of the local congregation and to stress anew the meaning of what it means to be a Christian.

To reawaken and reinterest the "marginal members" of the local congregation and to enlist them in active Christian service.

To make new disciples for Jesus Christ our Lord, and to enlist them in the working fellowship of the church.

To bring into active fellowship of the local congregations all those who have been members of congregations in our communities, but who have neglected to transfer their memberships by letter.

To send forth Christians into the world with zeal for the redemption of every area of life that all human relationships may reflect the spirit of Jesus Christ and the redemptive purpose for which He came.

Mission Service Opens Thursday; Two-Day Series
(Morris Daily Herald Monday October 26, 1936)

The united preaching mission which will be held in Morris with two large mass meetings Thursday and Friday of this week in the Center school gymnasium, beginning at 8 o'clock, is a part of the national preaching mission which is a united attempt on the part of the churches to bring about a spiritual awakening in America. It rests on the conviction that nothing is so important as to bring stronger foundations of Christian faith and life in the nation.

After 18 months of careful preparation, both in planning and in prayer, the mission is being launched.

A group of foremost interpreters of the Christian gospel, both from our own country and from abroad, are associated for three months in the evangelistic effort. They are going together to 25 major centers of population, spending four days in each city and using every available channel, both of great public meeting and smaller conferences to make combined spiritual impact upon the community.

Release Schedule

From these, other preaching missions such as the one in Morris are being conducted, in an effort to penetrate the entire country.

The leader of the local preaching mission will be Dr. J. W. G. Ward of Oak Park. He is an outstanding American preacher of national reputation.

The mission is being sponsored by the Grundy County Ministerial association with the churches in this area of the state invited to participate.

The program as outlined by the local committee, is as follows:

Mass meeting in Center school gymnasium, Thursday evening at 8 o'clock.

Minister's retreat Friday morning at 10 o'clock in the local Federated church, with dinner at 12 o'clock, the place to be announced later.

Junior convocation in Center school at 1:30 Friday. Woman's meeting in the First Baptist church at 3 o'clock; concluding with a huge mass meeting at the Center school gymnasium at 8 o'clock Friday evening.

The slogan for the United Preaching mission is "America Needs Christ." The central theme of the whole enterprise is the word from II Chronicles 7:14. "If my people who are called by my name shall humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their sins; then I shall hear from heaven, and will forgive their sins and heal their land," a text on which many minister's of the county preached yesterday.

MISSION SERVICE TO OPEN TONIGHT IN CENTER SCHOOL
(Morris Daily Herald Thursday October 29, 1936)
Two Day Series To Include Two Mass Meetings In Evening
PROGRAM REVIEWED

The first public mass meeting of the united preaching mission will be held in Center school gymnasium tonight beginning at 8 o'clock.

Dr. J. W. G. Ward, of Oak Park, the speaker. Will be prepared to launch into a two-day campaign for and with the religious leaders of the community.

Other surrounding communities to be represented in the united preaching mission are Ottawa, Marseilles, Seneca, Joliet, Dwight, and all the church communities of Grundy County.

Nation Wide Move

The united preaching mission is part of the great Christian movement now moving over the country, known as the national preaching mission. The purpose is to re-instill in the lives of Christian people the principles of Jesus Christ.

The meeting are not a part of row afternoon at 3 o'clock. The strictly preaching service.

(The above statement is exactly as it was printed in paper, but something has been left out???)

The meeting tonight in the gym will be in charge of Rev. W. H. Nibbelink, pastor of the First Baptist church, with other ministers of the county having special part.

The meeting for women will be held in the Baptist church tomorrow afternoon at 3 o'clock. The leaders of this meeting will be Mrs. Harry Torrence, song leader; Mrs. Ralph Davis, devotional leader; Rev. E. W. Wenzel, introducing Dr. Ward; and the guest speaker. Every woman in Morris should attend the meeting for inspiration and spiritual guidance.

Close Friday Night

The minister's retreat will be held with Dr. Ward tomorrow morning in the Federated church at 10 o'clock. Dr. P. G. Can Zandt, of Joliet, will have charge of the devotions for that meeting.

A junior convention will be held Friday afternoon at 1:30 in Center school.

The series of services will be continued Friday evening with a second mass meeting in Center school gym, scheduled to start at 8 o'clock, when Dr. Ward will give the final address.

The slogan for the mission is "America Needs Christ." The central theme of the whole enterprise is the word from II Chronicles 7:14 "If my people who are called by my name shall humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their sins; then I shall hear from heaven, and will forgive their sins and heal their land," a text on which many minister's of the county preached Sunday

Preaching Mission Services End In Rally Here Tonight
(Morris Daily Herald Friday October 30, 1936)

On the scripture texts "Look to the rock from whence ye are hewn," Dr. J. W. G. Ward opened the first public meeting of the united preaching mission in Center school gymnasium last night before a large audience.

Dr. Ward said, "Men have tried down through the ages, to live unto themselves. This has been proven a fallacy, and so today, everywhere, we are forced to look to the rock, for strength."

He brought to the audience the necessity for coming back to God and Christ Jesus in order to live happy and a satisfactory lives.

"All men," said Dr. Ward, "cannot have a prominent place in the activities of the world or have their statues placed in conspicuous places but every man can touch the life and have a niche in the heart of some human. If they find that niche they have lived well."

Citizens from neighboring towns as well as from Grundy county were present at the meeting last night.

A soprano solo was sung by Composer Mrs. Frances Hilt Gee. She sang, "Consecration." Both the music and the words were written by Mrs. Gee. Mrs. Ruth Harrison Huseby played the accompaniment for Mrs. Gee as well as for all congregational singing, while J. S. Sproull had charge of the congregational singing.

Meeting Today

This morning the ministers of Grundy and adjoining counties enjoyed a minister's retreat with Dr. Ward as the speaker, in the Federated church. Dr. Ward spoke on the work of being a good minister, after which a discussion was held.

This afternoon he spoke before the junior convocation in Center school at 1:30 and the woman's meeting in the Baptist church at 3 o'clock. Mrs. Will Davis was in charge of the devotional service at the woman's meeting and Mrs. H. O. Torrence led the singing. The Rev. E. W. Wenzel introduced the speaker.

Tonight's is expected to be the largest meeting of the mission. Dr. Ward will give his closing message in Center school gymnasium at 8 o'clock. The ministers of Grundy and surrounding counties will be on the platform and some of them will have a part on the program.

The meeting tonight will be in charge of Re. C. M. Hanson, pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran church. Dr. J. B. Larson will direct the congregational singing while Dr. Wayne Graham will offer the special music for the evening. Beside Rev. Hanson; the other ministers on the program will be Rev. W. F. Dick, pastor of the Free Methodist church; Rev. R. H. Pinkston, pastor of the Mazon Methodist church and others. The ushers for the service tonight will be from Bethlehem Lutheran church. Last night's ushers were from the Methodist church.

Last night the meeting was in charge of Rev. W. H. Nibbelink, pastor of the First Baptist church. Those taking part in the service in addition to Rev. Nibbelink were: Invocation, Rev. E. W. Wenzel, pastor of the Federated church; scripture reading, Rev. Ivan Obenshmin, pastor of the Methodist church.

Each night there is singing by the congregation of the old hymns of the church, those used last night being: "Faith of Our Fathers" "Onward Christian Soldiers" and "Revive Us Again."

MISSION SERVICE CONCLUDED HERE
(Morris Daily Herald Saturday October 31, 1936)

The closing meeting last night in the Center school gymnasium of the united Preaching mission, of which Dr. J. W. G. Ward, of Oak Park, was the preacher, attracted a large attendance.

Dr. Ward gave a heart to heart talk to those present on their duties and obligations to the Christian kingdom. His message last night was the most stirring of the group, and the best one he delivered while here. He called for a re-consecration of lives and rededication to the Christian tasks of every church member present.

He said, "While it is true that I am probably speaking to the "Salt of the Zearth." Neverless I feel within myself a call to deeper service and I know that ever Christian in this room should feel the same call. It is with this in mind that I ask you, in a prayer of dedication with me, to put on the full armor of God; go back to our churches with renewed vigor; enter into proper communications with Almighty; work with and for your pastor; and, do your part in spreading the gospel according to the commission that Christ has given.

The meeting last night was in charge of the Rev. C. M. Hanson, pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran church. Dr. Larson led the congregational singing and Dr. Wayne Graham sang Rock of Ages." The ushers were from the Bethlehem Lutheran church. Other ministers taking part were Rev. W. F. Dick, pastor of the First Methodist church, who gave the invocation and Rev. H. B. Rompet, former pastor of the Methodist church in Morris and now pastor of the First Methodist church in Ottawa, who read the scripture.

The local committee on arrangement was composed of Rev. W. F. Dick, pastor of the Free Methodist church; Rev. C. M. Hanson, pastor of Bethlehem Lutheran church; Rev. Ivan Obenshain, pastor of the First Methodist church; Rev. E. W. Wenzel, pastor of the Federated church and Rev. Nibbelink, pastor of the  First Baptist church.

The woman's meeting held in the afternoon in the Baptist church was well attended and Dr Ward told the women about the place they fill in the Christian kingdom. He cited scriptural cases of women who had attained mention there, some for their goodness and some for what they turned out to because of lives touched that of the Master's.

A large group of Ministers, both from Grundy and surrounding counties met in Federated church in the morning to discuss the problems that they are facing Daily in the life of a Christian minister. Dr. Ward with his 25 years of ministry behind him, was able to give sound advice on all questions asked.

In addition to his pastorate Dr. Ward is a confidential ministerial advisor through the medium of "Church Management," a clergyman's magazine, and he has written a number of religious books.

"Go-To-Church" Drive To Open Here May 3
(Morris Daily Herald Tuesday April 21, 1942)

A "Go-To-Church" campaign in which all Morris churches will cooperate, opening Sunday May 3 and continue through Sunday, June 14, was planned in a meeting of the Morris Church council of the Federated church Monday night.

Rev. O. Fred Moede, vice president, presided in the absence of L. E. Starke, president.

The method of procedure in conducting the campaign was discussed and it was decided to divide the city into blocks with captains in the block system to canvas every home in the city with invitations to attend some church service during the seven weeks period. Ministers of the cooperating churches will meet Wednesday at 1 o'clock to complete their arrangements.

A committee was also appointed, including Rev. M. S. Tope, Mrs. Will Bishop and Clifford Sullivan, to contact Chaplain Hanson and the chorus from Great Lakes Naval Training station to appear at a union Sunday evening service during the campaign.

The church council constitution was adopted by a unanimous vote of the members.

Go-To-Church Captains To Be Appointed
(Morris Daily Herald Monday April 27, 1942)

Beginning next Sunday and continuing for six weeks a "Go to Church" campaign will be in progress sponsored by all Morris churches. The city will be divided into blocks and a captain will be named in each block in command of the campaign squad in that block.

Tonight at 7:30 in the Federated church the campaign will be organized and captains appointed for each block in the city. "Go to Church" (any church) Sunday will be the slogan and the captains and workers in each block will make notes of the results of their campaign.

 Go-To-Church Drive Officers Named
(Morris Daily Herald Tuesday April 28, 1942)

A large number interested in a Go-To-Church campaign gathered in the Federated church last night and an organization was formed by the election of L. E. Starke, president and W. Atkinson, secretary-treasurer. The block system will be used in the campaign to get people in the habit of going to church beginning next Sunday.

The campaign was extended to continue for seven weeks instead of six. There are 113 captains in the city who will chose deputies and each one will be given literature on the Go-To-Church movement. It is planned to contact every home in the city and leave literature.

The idea is to get people church minded and have them attend some place of worship on Sunday.

Go-To-Church Drive Leaders Canvass City
(Morris Daily Herald Friday May 1, 1942)

The canvassing committee of the "Go to Church" campaign recently organized and being conducted by all the churches of Morris under the church council has been working diligently this week extending a personal invitation to every family in Morris and surrounding rural areas to go to church next Sunday and every Sunday of the campaign.

The Morris campaign is a part of the world-wide return-to-church movement, which has been so noticeable since the war began. It is significant that three-fourths of the group of the campaign are laymen from the various churches.

It is believed by the campaigners that when laymen get interested and think it important to go to church they will push such a movement as this and the people as a whole will become more interested.

The churches are preparing worshipful music, and sermons that are helpful in today's living will be preached by the ministers each Sunday of "Go-To-Church" campaign.

Church Campaign Nets Increase Attendance
(Morris Daily Herald Monday May 4, 1942)

Morris "Go to Church" campaign, to continue through Sunday, June 14, opened yesterday in local churches with an appreciable increase in attendance in all churches over that recorded a week ago, ministers reported today.

The increase in attendance that ranged from 20 to 50 per cent over the previous Sunday services was a clear indication of the interest shown by the congregations. A proclamation was issued last week by Mayor Tony Andersen, in which he urged that the people of Morris attend some church of their choice during the campaign and he joined today with the ministers in expressing his appreciation of the cooperation given in the opening.

In all churches yesterday there were special efforts made by the pastors and choir directors in preparing the service and those efforts are to be carried throughout the seven weeks campaign. It is the hope and desire of every church that a continued attendance of services during that period will create a desire on the part of the congregations to take time out every Sunday for the purpose of worship.

It has been pointed out in all churches that the campaign is not for the purpose of building up enthusiasm for some financial drive or other special program as a closing but purely to invite the people of a war-torn world to return to the churches for meditation and worship.

Church Drive To Observe Pentecost
(Morris Daily Herald Friday May 22, 1942)

The Morris "Go To Church" campaign continues Sunday with the observance of Pentecost or Whit Sunday, which means the coming of power to the early church. All the customs are of a joyful nature for the church rejoices that the power of God has been given it to endure the trials of the world.

The small band of disciples which was to grow into the great tree of the church awaited some divine manifestation of Christ on this day. Jesus had told them to await this power. When it came, each one felt its new strength and assurance. The church was formed and endured because of this divine help and power.

Pentecost will be observed in all churches in some way. Either through special sermons, speakers or receptions into membership. Guest and friends of the churches will help by attending some church next Sunday.

Church Drive Asks Dedication Of People
(Morris Daily Herald Friday June 05, 1942)

The Go-To-Church campaign of Morris which continues next Sunday calls for the Dedication For Victor of the people to the causes of religious living. Civilization and nations must have the power and faith of Christianity to survive and live. The church through its eternal witnessing to hope, comfort, peace, and triumph of truth makes victory a real word.

The countries that have forgotten God and Christianity have lost their inner faith and hope in life, and have been unable to withstand the pressure of forces without their nation. The God-fearing nations whether over run tyrants have kept their patriotism and will endure, a local minister pointed out.

The Morris churches will give the Dedication For Victory Week a spiritual significance next Sunday and the messages and music and preaching will make for a better unity in life.

Go-To-Church Drive To End Sunday
(Morris Daily Herald Saturday June 13, 1942)

The Morris Go-To-Church campaign which has increased attendance of all churches the last six weeks closes with most churches having special services tomorrow honoring and recognizing the place of children in the church and the community. This fitting recognition of child life is very important today for the children will form the world of tomorrow.

The importance of students and Flag Day observance will be emphasized in some churches. People are urged to attend some church next Sunday, where a welcome awaits them.

I suggest looking at BLC History during the War years to see many many out reach programs conducted on behalf of the war.

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