History

Morning Star Lutheran Church was organized in 1887 by members of Powder Springs living in the Hepner's area.

The first service was probably on October 9, 1887 by the organizing pastor Rev. J. P. Stirewalt with text from John 10:9. Morning Star was organized October 28, 1887. There were 26 charter members at that time. David Ryman and John Hepner were the first elders. John Miller and David Hepner were the first deacons. The first members to be confirmed were on October 18, 1887 with eight new members, of which three were baptized. The church was dedicated on April 18, 1888. The name of the church was selected by Mrs. Rebecca Miller and the land was donated by David Hepner. The Rev. J. P. Stirewalt held several services at the school house until the church was completed

The Rev. J. P. Stirewalt held several services at the school house until the church was completed. Orville Hepner said that his father's sister was buried at the church before it was built. Her name was Rebecca Hepner and she died 11/13/1887.

The church was built for about $1,000 and is the current building. In the early

years when there was a communion Sunday, there was also a preparatory service on Saturday.

To read more about the history click Morning_Star_Lutheran_Church_History.pdf.