Richard Weins
1972-1974
Rev. Richard
Wiens arrived in 1973 from Mora, Minnesota. Pastor Wiens began an emphasis
on church outreach, the church
purchased new busses and brought people in
from all over the Portland area. Mr. Jim Gallatin directed the bus
ministry and Mr. Gary Nyquist served a Music Director. Pastor Wiens was
blessed with a deep, rich speaking voice and a concern for those outside of
Christ.
Church attendance and membership increased as a partial
result of the extensive busing program. As attendance increased, space was
at a premium, primarily due to Sunday School overcrowding. By the
mid-70's, the question arose over whether Temple should remain in its present
location or move to the suburbs. The decision of the church was to remain
at its present location, remodel the building, and expand the usable space.
The stairs at the south end of the foyer were removed and a
stair tower was built. The front of the sanctuary was remodeled. The
lattice work over the choir loft was removed and replace with red oak wood work
by Mr. Paul Strandberg. A new organ was installed. Rugs were placed
through out the church and Sunday School rooms were enlarged. The library
was moved to its present location in the room formally occupied by the prayer
room. The Custodial apartment was later remodeled to serve as the church
office.
While all the remodeling was going on, attention was given to
the present structure of church administration, the creation of a Church
Board system allowed more flexibility in meeting the new challenges of the
1970"s and 80's. The Deacon and Trustee Board were replaced by the Elder
Board.
1974 was a year of growth. The attendance in Sunday
School rose to 550, The morning worship to 665, and the evening worship to
301. New members in 1974 totaled 113 with 53 by baptism.
Pastor Wiens said, "What we have seen is just a
beginning of what we feel God would have for us in the coming year. God
wants Temple to become a Great Church for Him."
In 1974, Pastor Wiens resigned to return to Minnesota.
"Only fear the Lord and serve Him in truth
with all your heart"
1 Samuel 12:24
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