Canton, MN - Henrytown Lutheran Church

Henrytown Lutheran Church was organized on January 22, 1870, with 26 families laying the foundation for our rural Canton congregation. It was nine years later, on July 1, 1879, 70 families celebrated the dedication of our first church building. It cost $3,500 and took just over a year to take shape. Norwegian was the language of the church until the 1920s. In addition to the adaptation of English, several physical improvements took place over the next 135 years – making Henrytown a beautiful and well-preserved country church for worship and fellowship.During the early morning hours of April 16, 2015, an accidental fire destroyed our building, but the flames did not destroy our church. We continued to worship as plans were formed for a new gathering space. On May 4, 2016, the rebuilding project officially began. Nearly 9 months later, on January 29, 2017, we gathered to worship in our new house of God. The building was dedicated on June 11, 2017. The 6,260-square foot structure is a pre-engineered steel building with a 2,100-square foot sanctuary and a 2,400-square foot fellowship hall. The sanctuary has permanent seating for about 150 people. When needed, the back wall can be opened up to accommodate another 150 people in the fellowship hall. The new floor plan also includes a kitchen, handicapped-accessible restrooms, an office and storage areas. Fifteen colorful and meaningful stained glass windows have been gifted to our congregation. The “Jesus Knocks at the Door” window, proudly displayed above the altar, is a replica of our cherished altar painting lost in the fire.Our 250 member congregation, led by Pastor Dean Safe, is committed to preserving the rich history of Henrytown Lutheran Church, while focusing on our growing future. We will celebrate our 150th anniversary in 2020.