OVERLOOKING THE COUNTRYSIDE high atop a hill in northeastern Rice County, two historic Norwegian immigrant churches sit, a testament to the faith and fortitude of those who settled in this area of southern Minnesota.
And each December, thanks to the efforts of the Valley Grove Preservation Society, the faith legacy of those long ago Norwegian settlers continues. This Sunday, December 7, at 4:30 pm, a vespers service of music, stories, poetry and scripture will be held in the 1894 wood-frame Valley Grove church with the soaring steeple. Just across the yard stands the older limestone church, used now as a gathering space rather than as a sanctuary.
Weeks later, on Christmas Eve, the wood-frame church will once again host guests for music at 9:45 pm followed by a traditional candlelight service at 10 pm.
I’ve been to Valley Grove countless times, mostly in autumn and never in December. It’s a beautiful spot. Peaceful, too. And I expect with the recent snowfalls, this rural setting near Nerstrand will prove even more picturesque. Ideal for contemplation, for worship, for reflection and for remembering the faith of forefathers.
© Copyright 2025 Audrey Kletscher Helbling
Minnesota Prairie Roots 
what a beautiful setting for both churches and I’m glad that their services and traditions continue –
The Valley Grove Preservation Society does a great job of hosting events at these historic churches and with upkeep, etc.
I will miss the vesper service at Valley Grove. I hope you can attend.
I’m sure you’re enjoying your time out East with your family.
We are having a delightful time here, and are ok missing the events back home…;-)
I’m glad you have this time with your precious family.
Looks like a truly beautiful place.
It is. I planned to attend the service, but then didn’t because I was snug in my warm house and didn’t want to go outside in the frigid cold.