Prince of Peace celebrates its 50th year in Schaumburg
A rock-hard foundation dug deeply 50 years ago in Schaumburg continues to uphold the mission, goals and dreams of Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, which by design reaches "beyond the walls of the congregation."
A worship service April 27 followed by a celebratory luncheon marked the 50th anniversary of the church with former pastors and two bishops adding to the festive atmosphere. Presiding Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America Mark Hanson, who also is president of the Lutheran World Federation, was a guest of honor and so was Bishop Wayne Miller, bishop of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod.
The Rev. Donald Myrom, senior pastor of the church founded in 1958, was elated at the events of the 50th, which followed a theme of "Fifty Years: A Foundation for the Future" that allowed an opportunity for the congregation to reflect.
"Today, we have the opportunity to look back and celebrate," Myrom said. "Many wonderful things happened at Prince of Peace during these past 50 years."
Myrom said worshippers initiated a Stephen Ministry, a program that continues with more than 20 Stephen ministers, a PADS program that continues to thrive "despite resistance from the community" and a pre-school that began 40 years ago.
"We became the first Lutheran ELCA suburban congregation in the Metropolitan Chicago Synod to become a 'Welcoming and Affirming Congregation,' one that ministers to persons who are gay and lesbian," Myrom said, "and 10 years ago we merged with Community of Christ Lutheran Church, a merger that brought new vitality to Prince of Peace."
He said the church, which also provides a place for Scouts and Alcoholics Anonymous, recently became a sponsor of Read to Learn, a program that teaches English as a second language. Three years ago Lutheran Social Services of Illinois honored the church for having the outstanding social ministry program in the synod.
"Most recently we initiated 'Abraham Salons,' in partnership with Beth Tikvah Congregation and with the Islamic community," the pastor related. "It was done as a tangible way to be faithful to our vision to celebrate the growing diversity of our neighboring community."
Myrom recognized the Revs. Bill Shaw, president of the Schaumburg/Hoffman Estates Clergy Council and pastor of Our Redeemer's Methodist Church, and Lit Inn Wu, pastor of Truelight Chinese Christian Church that once rented space at Prince of Peace.
Former pastors who helped celebrate were the Rev. Rudy Kolberg and the Revs Ed Paape, Curt Gerald, Jay Trygstad, Melanie Potuznik and Karen O'Malia, current associate pastor.
Proud of its accomplishments, Myrom credited his congregation.
"Throughout our history we tried to develop an outward focus to serve those in need wherever they are. We intentionally became a tithing congregation to ensure that at least 10 percent of our offerings are used to support ministries beyond the walls of this congregation," Myrom said. "I have every confidence that the Lord who blessed us so richly these past 50 years will continue to bless us as we look to the future."