A historic move

After 141 years of serving the spiritual needs of it's congregation from its Hancock Street location, Saints Peter and Paul Lutheran Church (LCMS) crossed the Portage Lake Lift Bridge Sunday, March 1, to begin a new era of service at its new church at 1010 Madeleine Street in Houghton.

Pastor David Weber led the 11:00 a.m. Service of Closure and Entry beginning at the Hancock location. The church was undedicated, vessels used in worship and the ceremonial cross were gathered and brought out of the building. After locking the doors member traveled in caravan to the new sanctuary and Christian Family Life Center in Houghton for the concluding Service of Entry.

Weber stated that the transition reminds him of the Apostle Paul's words "Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep."  Weber added, "for all that has happened for our families at our present facility,  I'm sure tears of sadness and remembrance will occur as the doors are locked. Later there will tears of joy as we enter our new home, which we humbly accomplish to the glory of God." A small chapel at the new church incorporates stained glass, pews, altar and  vessels from the old church to keep the memory of 141 years of heritage and service alive.

The 21,500 square foot structure cost $2,942,000 to build and sits on 14 acres just off Sharon Avenue on Madeleine Street in Houghton.

The official dedication of the new Saints Peter and Paul Lutheran Church took place at 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 29 with a Community Open House the previous afternoon.