1. Zion Lutheran Church had its beginnings in From its humble beginning, and a number
1949 when seven people met to lay the of building expansions, Zion has now grown
groundwork for a new congregation in the to a baptized membership of 1,300.
Shawano Wisconsin area. On October 9,
1949, 49 persons met for the Zion is one of over 10,000 congregations
congregation’s first worship service in the that make up the Evangelical Lutheran
rented Seventh Day Adventist Church in Church in America (ELCA) and is a member
Shawano. Zion rented the tiny sanctuary for of the 142 congregation East Central Synod
Sunday services and the Seventh Day of Wisconsin headquartered in Appleton.
Adventists worshiped there on Saturdays. Among Zion’s many ministry programs are;
men’s and women’s groups, missionary
support, community outreach activities,
education and benevolences. Family
education and youth activities are led by a
Minister of Family Life and Health Ministry
programs by our Parish Nurse.
Throughout the year three worship
opportunities are offered each weekend.
During the summer months an informal
outdoor worship service is available at
The fledgling congregation struggled Shawano County Park and Campground
through its early years. In 1951 the Mission located on Shawano Lake.
Board of the Wisconsin District ordered
Zion to be closed because its slow growth This outdoor service began as an outreach
did not meet expectations. The first effort for campers, but has become popular
resident pastor stayed only six months. to many Shawano Lake residents and
visitors as well as many others from the
But the determination, perseverance and area that simply enjoy the beautiful
strong faith of a handful of members kept outdoor setting…and the aroma from bacon
the little congregation going. and eggs cooking over nearby campfires.

2. Zion is now going through a major
transition since the retirement of our recent
Senior Pastor of 27 years. This is a normal,
healthy process in such situations and is
guided by an Intentional, Interim Pastor
who also provides regular ministerial duties.
This transition process, possibly extending
over a year or more, involves the
congregation in self-examination and long-
range planning in preparation for the calling
of our next permanent pastor.