The hymn, “Built on a Rock, the Church Doth Stand,” written by Nicolai Grundtvig in 1837, is the theme of the centennial anniversary of Redeemer Lutheran Church of Kingston. The church was organized Jan. 20, 1904, at the home of Gust Saarinen in Section 10 of Kingston Township. The families of Gust Saarinen, William Maatta, Elia Wiisanen, Jacob Ruotsinoja, Matt Waataja, Thomas Hill, and Samuel Sorvari were founding members. The church was organized as the “Finnish Lutheran Church of Kingston Township – Suomi Synod,” and the article of incorporation was written by C.D. Brower of Kimball and filed with the state of Minnesota Feb. 26, 1904. To commemorate the founding of the church and to begin the year-long celebration, the congregation of Redeemer Lutheran Church will have a “Founder’s Day Service” at 11 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 18. Rev. Antti Lepisto, president of the Suomi (Finland) Conference of the E.L.C.A. will be the guest speaker. The order of service will be from the old Augustana Synod black Service Book, and special music will be provided by the present Sunday School and by Ruth (Pousi) Ollila of Fridley. A pot-luck dinner will follow. The congregation welcomes everyone to attend this special service and dinner. Future celebrations will include the planting of 17 spruce trees in memory of the 17 pastors who have served the congregation since its founding. The trees will be planted Sunday, May 17. A confirmation dinner and program will take place Saturday evening, July 31. The year-long celebration will conclude with a special worship service and catered dinner Sunday, Aug. 1.
