Ostmark Lutheran Church-ELCA, of rural Watkins, will celebrate its annual Swedish “Mid-Summer” Sunday, June 24. New members will also be received into the congregation A special worship service will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by a potluck dinner. Scandinavian countries traditionally celebrate “Mid-Summer” on the longest day of the year. Ostmark Lutheran was founded 113 years ago by immigrants from Varmland, Sweden. “Our current membership is certainly much more ethnically diverse now, but many members are still directly connected to their Swedish roots and like to celebrate some of the church’s ethnic traditions,” Pastor Melinda Melhus said. “It’s part of what makes Ostmark unique; plus, the congregation likes opportunities to share food and fellowship.”
