Bethany Lutheran Church Celebrates 150 Years

LEMONT, IL — In 150 years, a lot has changed in Lemont; and Bethany Lutheran Church has been there for it all.

The church celebrated its 150th anniversary with a celebration last month, including a visit from Bishop Yehiel Curry of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod, Pastor Elaina Salmon told Patch. As part of its celebrations this year, the church even worked with Pollyanna Brewing Company for a special anniversary brew, "Bethany Brew 150."

The church was organized in 1872, and had only 20 adults and 11 children. A sanctuary, which is the present structure, was completed in 1895 for $10,000.

Over the past 150 years, many renovations and additions have taken place, with the main sanctuary even needing repairs after taking damage from a tornado which struck Lemont in 1976.

The church is known in the community for its open food pantry, which was started in 1975. It is run by volunteers.

Salmon said the pantry currently serves about 50 families per month, and at its peak, the pantry has served over 100 families per month.

"It started small [in 1975], it started with a box that had a few items collected," Salmon said. "It is greatly supported by the community."

Bethany offers a regular Sunday service at 10:30 a.m. There are also special worship services, including Worship Walks, offered at times.