A Festival of Lessons and Hymns will be presented on Sunday, Oct. 11, in preparation for the 100th anniversary celebration in 1999 of the founding of Christ Lutheran Church of Gordonville.

Christ Lutheran's congregation was founded in 1898 by a group of Lutherans from the Gordonville area. Their first church building was dedicated on Oct. 8, 1899. As the congregation grew, members realized there was a need for a bigger house of worship. A new church was dedicated on Dec. 18, 1960 and is the congregation's present place of worship.

The congregation's first pastor was Rev. M.M. Telle who was installed on Jan. 7, 1900. Various pastors have served the congregation during its 100 year history and is presently being ministered by Rev. D. Lee Cullen.

The festival of singing and praise will begin at 2:30 p.m. with a pre-service recital presentation by Ryan Kasten who is pursuing a masters in organ performance degree at University of Nebraska at Lincoln. At 3 p.m., the festival service will begin. Special musicians include baritone soloist Dale Rauh, a native of Jackson, Mo. Rauh is employed at St. Francis Medical Center and has been an area choir director and organist. Also performing will be Scott Vangilder, band director at Jackson High School. Leading the service will be the Christ Lutheran Choir under the direction of Pat Palisch. A short reading will be given by Pastor Cullen.

Everyone is invited to attend this festival of lessons and hymns. A special invitation is given to former members and friends of this congregation.

Christ Lutheran Church is located on Albert Street in Gordonville, Mo. For more information, contact Anna Gerler at (573) 243-7281.