Sterling IL, Whiteside County
The Swedish Evangelical Lutheran church was organzied in Sterling March 1, 1871. At that time the constitution of the Augustana Synod was adopted. The congregation then consisted of but twelve families. At the annual meeting in January 1872, it was decided to apply for admission into the Augustana Synod. At the same time Deacon J.P. Bjorklund was elected to conduct the services, the congregation having as yet no regular minister, neither did the congregation have any church building, but rented a hall. During the years 18871 and 72, Revs. Lunquist and Lindholm mostly officiated, and gave to the little flock an inspiration which led to the erection of a church building, more than $1900 being donated for that purpose, of which $1,500 was donated by Americans. The building was completed and occupied in 1873. From 1873 to 1875, the congregation was served by Rev. Peters, Wickstrand and Nordgren. It was not until 1876 that a pastor was elected, when C.B.L. Boman was called, dividing his time with the church at Clinton Iowa. He resigned in 1877 and Dr. O.Olsen of Augustana College was called to preach every third Sabbath, which arrangement continued until 1879. From 1882 to 1885, the congregation was taken charge of by Prof. Rydholm and Graham of Augustana College. From that time to the present the pulpit has been supplied by students from the College and supplies from the Rock Island District.
Thus it will be seen, that the church has not had what might be termed a stated pastor, but the work of the church has rested upon the Deacons, and so well have they performed the duty that almost continuous service has been held. Mr. Oscar F. Lawson, recently deceased, adn Mr. S. August Johnson, have at all times been the prime movers in the work of this organization and are entitled to much praise for what has been accomplished. The number of communicants have been maintained at about 40. During the past twenty-six years 150 communicants have moved away and twenty-six have died.
The Sterling Standard Dec. 11, 1896
