One rural church in southeastern South Dakota is looking to the future by preserving the past and celebrating one of the things that make country churches so special: A serene setting in the heart of nature.
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Prayers on the Prairie: Rural setting a strength for historic Swedish church
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The sun sets over the cemetary at the Beaver Valley Luthern Church near Valley Springs, S.D. The church was started by Swedish settlers in 1873. The original church sat beside the 1922 brick structure that still stands. Now church members are planning upgrades in celebration of the coming 150th anniversary.
Beaver Valley Lutheran Church near Valley Springs is lit by the setting sun. Each year, members follow the Swedish tradition of celebrating Midsummer in June.
The church interior features a large painting behind the altar, “The Ascension,” which was moved from Beaver Valley Lutheran’s original 1873 building.
Tri-State Neighbor photo by Janelle Atyeo
The church interior features a large painting behind the altar, “The Ascension,” which was moved from Beaver Valley Lutheran’s original 1873 building.
The baptismal font sits at the front of Beaver Valley Lutheran Church near Valley Springs, S.D.
Beaver Valley Lutheran Church near Valley Springs is lit by the setting sun. Each year, members follow the Swedish tradition of celebrating Midsummer in June.
“Something about their church can live on and have a new life, kind of a resurrection."
Prayers on the Prairie is a regular feature of the Tri-State Neighbor, taking the place of the Crop Watchers report during the winter season. …
