Huntley's Trinity Lutheran begins renovation Dec. 25
At this time a year ago, Pastor Glen Borhart intended to retire. He longed to golf, garden and enjoy his koi pond. After 39 years in ministry, the most recent 28 spent as pastor at Zion Lutheran in Marengo, he'd earned a rest. Early this fall, however, Pastor Borhart became interim pastor at Trinity in Huntley.
"My home church called, and I couldn't say 'no,' especially when 2020 will be an exciting, transformative year," Borhart said.
Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church in Huntley was first organized on March 1, 1871. Its current sanctuary was completed in 1958. Pastor Borhart's father, Delwin, served on the nucleus committee to raise funds for the building. The "new" church opened three years after Dairy Mart on Route 47 and one year after a new post office appeared on Woodstock Street.
"I was about 4 when I first remember sitting in these pews," Borhart said. "Now it's time to retire them, but not before telling their story."
On Sunday, Dec. 15, Pastor Borhart will lead a Celebratory Service at 10 a.m. to trace the history and embrace the future of his home church.
"People who used to attend here as well as those interested in Huntley history are welcome to join us," he said. "I will talk about the many families who've been baptized, confirmed, married and memorialized here from the perspective of the pews that held them."
Trinity's congregation has just approved a $225,000 renovation budget to begin with pews removal following the 10 a.m. service on Christmas morning.
By Easter, members and guests will worship from new, more comfortable seats in a room that is fully accessible and more beautiful.
The project will be accomplished with capital funds raised in the past 12 months.
"Our project will retain the most important elements of our church; its cross, altar, baptismal font and pulpit, but we'll add new flooring, wood trims and paint to dramatically update its atmosphere," said Larry Melman, chair of Trinity's board of ministry directors. "Dec. 25 will be the last day to see our Church as we know it. Come and join us at any time between now and then."
Trinity Lutheran Church is located at 11008 N. Church St. in downtown Huntley. Regular services are on Saturdays at 5:30 p.m. and on Sundays at 8 and 10:30 a.m. Call (847) 669-5780 or email office@trinityhuntley.org for further information.