As a military family faced with frequent moves that take us away from family and friends, the selection of a loving church family is of utmost importance.  Moving is especially difficult on our children, so finding a church where our boys feel at home is always a top priority.  We are so blessed to have found Zion!  Zion wasn’t the first Lutheran church we visited after moving to the area, and there are a few Lutheran churches closer to our home.  However, another military family recommended Zion to us, and we knew after one visit that it was going to be our new church family.  We were immediately welcomed with open arms, and our kids melded right into the thriving youth program.  After 5 years of membership, these bonds are only growing stronger!  We love the friendliness of our fellow Zion members, the close friends we’ve made, and the way our boys are growing and developing in the youth ministry.  Moving to a new city and state is always difficult, but being welcomed into a church family such as the one we have here at Zion, makes the transition that much easier.

I joined Zion in 2003 when I moved to Belleville.  I visited a number of churches before deciding on Zion.  I felt a connection with the pastors and service.  I also loved the music which has only gotten better!  I immediately felt at home.  There are lots of ways to become active at Zion.  I’ve volunteered in the school, church and even went on a mission trip.  With no local relatives in the area, Zion has become my family!

God used a job opportunity 16 years ago as the means for bringing us hundreds of miles to Belleville, and then He led us the rest of the way down the road to Zion. It was at Zion where three of our children were baptized and where they all enjoyed, and the younger ones continue to enjoy, a Christ-centered education at Zion’s grade school.  We are blessed to be part of such an amazing community of believers, and we consider Zion our second home and the people of Zion a second family. We are thankful for the Pastors, teachers, staff, and all who make Zion what it is. Opportunities for worship, service, and fellowship have enriched our family over the years, and they continue to be an integral part of our daily lives. We are grateful for everything that Zion has done for us, and we thank God daily for leading us here.

My great-great-grandfather was one of the original signers of Zion in 1861. I was baptized at Zion, went to school at Zion, and confirmed at Zion. Judy was also confirmed at Zion. We married in 1961 at Zion, and our 4 children were baptized, schooled and confirmed at Zion. We will celebrate 60 years of marriage in 2022. I am a 5th generation member. So, Zion chose me. All the glory to God.