The Voices That Have Impacted Bethany Congregation from 1908 into the Third Millennium

Abstract

Jamie S. Brei’s 2001 essay, The Voices That Have Impacted Bethany Congregation from 1908 into the Third Millennium, chronicles the rich history of Bethany Evangelical Lutheran Church in Hustisford, Wisconsin. Building on earlier work covering the congregation’s first fifty years, Brei highlights the influential voices—pastors, teachers, choir members, council leaders, and Ladies Aid participants—who shaped Bethany’s spiritual and communal life. The essay explores the transition from German to English services, the evolution of Christian education, the impact of the vicar program, and outreach efforts such as the Mexico mission project. Brei also includes personal testimonies, notably from lifelong member Melvin Grulke, illustrating Bethany’s enduring heritage. Through detailed interviews and archival research, the essay affirms Bethany’s commitment to the gospel and its role in nurturing faith across generations. The work concludes with a call to future voices to continue Bethany’s legacy of confessional Lutheran witness. —Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)