Our Story
As early as 1962, a handful of Christians hungry for more of God began to gather for Bible study and fellowship in rural Lincoln County. Several couples attended the same country church, where they were leaders or teachers. By the first Sunday of September, 1965, the group began what would become weekly Sunday afternoon meetings in the living room of the Harvey Sternke farmhouse.
As more people began to attend the afternoon meetings it was decided to move the meetings to a regular Sunday morning meeting. These early meetings were led by a visiting pastor from Sacred Heart, MN. Much of the weekly ministry was done by either Harvey Sternke or Henry Teigland, and Wednesday night Bible studies were added.
By March 3, 1969, this little flock was formally recognized (i.e. incorporated) by the State of Minnesota as a church, thereafter known as Bethel Fellowship. It was also around this time that Harvey Sternke took the pastoring duties of the church.children.
Harvey Passed away suddenly in 1978, and leadership was assumed by Henry Teigland, David Myrvik, and Tom Nomeland. In 1979 the church hired a fulltime pastor, who led the group until 1980, at which time Henry, David, and Tom assumed the leadership role again.
In late 1980 and early ’81, the church moved to Minneota, Lyon county, and purchased a building and property from a general contractor. At this time the church invited a church leader from Wales, David Patterson, who with his wife Patience and their four children moved to the US, living in Minneota. David was the leader of the church for 15 months, after which time he returned to the UK due to immigration problems.
After David Patterson’s departure in 1982, the church voted and asked Tom Nomeland to lead the work here with the help of two other elders. Over the years the eldership has changed a bit and currently consists of Tom Nomeland (pastor) and Steve Harrison.
In 2009, due to growth and the desire to better serve and reach out to the community, the church voted to build a new facility. Land was purchased next to the present location, and the construction began in May of 2009. The great majority of work done on the building was accomplished by members of the church.
The new church building was completed, and the first service was held on May 30, 2010. God has been faithful to this church, and we acknowledge that His ways are above our ways. We stand in awe of His love and care.
