Trinity Lutheran Church, 301 Second Avenue, Wanamingo, Minnesota.
THE LUTHERAN CHURCH STANDS solid on a corner lot a few blocks off Wanamingo’s Main Street. Brick strong. Enduring strong. In the faith strong.
The cornerstone of this ELCA church is dated 1922, to the left in this photo.
A cornerstone on Trinity Lutheran Church simply notes LUTHERAN CHURCH 1922. I know nothing more about the history of this congregation, of this building.
The beautiful sanctuary as photographed from the balcony.
That matters not. For I appreciate churches like this which are lovely houses of worship. For these truly are houses to the families of faithful. Therein, worshipers, if not related by blood, are related by the commonality of faith and lives shared. They truly become family in joy and in grief.
One of my favorite stained glass windows in Trinity is this one of Ruth gathering grain to help support her mother-in-law. The window is partially covered by the balcony. To me, this window symbolizes deep love and devotion to family.
This trio of stained glass windows rises above the altar.
One of the windows flanking the sanctuary.
Within the walls of an aged sanctuary like Trinity, visual symbols of faith embrace those who enter therein. Intricate stained glass windows shine the light of grace and of Scripture.
One can only imagine the messages delivered from this sturdy pulpit.
The sturdy pulpit with its handcarved trim looms as a time-honored place for preaching of the Word, the wood dulled by the hands of many preachers.
Balcony pews.
Worn pews reflect the history of generations.
Another view, this from the center church aisle.
Art, history and a heavenly presence prevail. It is here, within the walls of Trinity. Visually. And in spirit.
BONUS PHOTOS:
The risen Lord centers the trio of stained glass windows above the altar.
A basket holds church bulletins and other worship essentials.
Church mail slots.
A final message for worshipers is posted on a window next to an exterior front door.
FYI: Please check back next week for more posts in my “from Wanamingo” series.
© Copyright 2016 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
I always love a church with stained glass windows. There is just something about the beauty of each colored pane of glass that makes me grateful to be in a church building that has those depictions to remind me of what our journey on earth should be about. Thanks for sharing.
I feel the same. Fortunately when my congregation built a new church some 20-plus years ago, stained glass windows from the old church were incorporated into the design.
The beauty of the old churches is beyond the modern designs by 100 fold. Although the cost in today’s dollars is probably greater, the value of those magnificent edifices of the past is priceless.
I agree.
What stories are held within those walls!!! With my Catholic background, I can totally appreciate those gorgeous stained glass windows…..and the woodcarvings are amazing!!!!!!!
The craftsmanship that went into these churches truly impresses.
Beautiful Inside and Out – love the Psalm – thanks so much for sharing 🙂 Happy Day – Enjoy!
You are most welcome.
lovely photos, Audrey.
I love churches.
The stained glass, old pews, pastors, priests!
Even the smell of the hymnals!
How Are You? xx
You and I are kindred souls.
I am OK. Missing my “kids.” Excited, though, about the granddaughter due in ONE month!
I did’nt catch this when in the church,but the pews in the bacony are probably from the “old” church.
I thought of that when I saw them. I think we’re right.
again, we share a love for old churches, the stained glass window are a thing of the past and oh, how beautiful they are! I love the inside of this church, what a beauty she is! I have not sat in a pew for years, our church converted to chairs many years ago when we built the new worship center. They also seem to be a thing of the past. Lovely post Audrey, beautiful photo’s as always.
Chairs simply don’t have the same reverent feel as pews, do they? But they do make a worship center more flexible. I will always be a traditionalist when it comes to a house of worship.
Just beautiful – my goodness those windows – the glass holds its colour so beautifully.. c
It is beautiful, isn’t it? Good to hear from you.
Love love love especially the worn out pews
Many stories are imprinted upon those worn pews.
Thank you for all the memories and sharing my beautiful ‘home’ church. I was baptized and confirmed there. The baptisms, confirmations, weddings, & funerals of both family & friends are all brought back to me looking at those lovely images. A teary eyed thank you for your sharing & vision.
You are kindly welcome, Dean.