Abstract
Jon Zabell’s 1997 paper chronicles the development of Calvary Lutheran Church in Thiensville, Wisconsin, during the 1950s—a decade marked by significant growth and transformation, especially in elementary education. In 1956, Calvary became financially self-supporting, a milestone that enabled expansion of its Christian Day School. Enrollment surged from 51 students in 1955 to 109 by 1960, prompting plans for a new school building. Despite challenges in staffing, including multiple declined teacher calls, the school continued to thrive. Worship life also evolved, with the addition of a second Sunday service and the installation of a new organ. Membership grew steadily, and financial contributions increased, supporting both local and synodical initiatives. Zabell highlights the congregation’s commitment to gospel ministry, noting that spiritual growth—evidenced by baptisms, confirmations, and worship attendance—was the church’s greatest blessing. The paper draws from congregational minutes and anniversary booklets to document this dynamic period.
—Summary generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)
