Lutheran Church of Hope marked its 50th anniversary with a great weekend of celebration and fellowship on August 18th and 19th,
2007.
Saturday’s program was dedicated to the history of Lutheran Church of Hope (LCOH). Pastor Bill Ottum and Alaska
Bishop Michael Keys started the celebration with words of welcome. We were then taken on a guided tour of 1957 creatively presented
by Megan Bladow. This set the context for a presentation of pictures and information about the beginnings of Lutheran Church
of Hope by Mary Bristol. Barbara Groth Bernard was the featured speaker. As the daughter of Glenn Groth, the first pastor
of LCOH, she had much to share about the people and events of those first years. Those who were members in the early years agreed
she captured it perfectly.
Charter members and members before 1960 were honored. As you can see in the picture, we
were pleased to have several of them with us. We also had a moment of prayer for those who are no longer with us. We so
appreciate all the leadership, love, and courage these people have shared.
Sunday’s church service was truly festive. Bishop Martin Wells of the Eastern Washington-Idaho synod gave the sermon. He created a visual time-line that encouraged us as we move forward into the future of our church. Bishop Wells is the son of
Les and Edith Wells, former members of the church. It was a great joy to have him celebrate with us. Special music was
provided by the church choir, chimes choir, and Linda Ottum played the cello accompanied by Beaty Graves. Following the service
we enjoyed refreshments, fellowship and sharing memories. A video was played featuring Pastors John Maakestad and Glenn Groth
telling of an infamous moose hunt. This was followed by an open microphone for all to share stories. I’m not sure when
the last person left- but I know we all had a great time.
50th Anniversary Celebration
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF HOPE
Anchorage, Alaska
Past Events
Lutheran Church of Hope - 1847 West Northern Lights Blvd - Anchorage, AK 99517
Pastor Julia Seymour
Phone: (907) 279-7714 - Fax: (907) 278-2737 - Email: lcoh@alaska.net
Hope Preschool - 1847 West Northern Lights Blvd - Anchorage, AK 99517
Director/Teacher, Beaty Graves - Teacher, Barb Middendorf
Phone: (907) 272-3481