God Opens Another Mission Door: A History of Divine Word Evangelical Lutheran Church, Plover, Wisconsin

Abstract

Michael Wolff’s historical essay traces the founding and development of Divine Word Evangelical Lutheran Church in Plover, Wisconsin, from its beginnings in 1970 through 1981. Initiated by WELS families seeking a confessional Lutheran congregation near Stevens Point, the mission began with exploratory services led by Pastor William Lange and Vicar Paul Zittlow. The congregation officially organized in 1971 under Pastor Roger Kobleske, growing steadily and establishing a permanent location in Plover. Under Pastor Craig Weber (installed in 1976), Divine Word built a church and fellowship hall, expanded campus ministry at UW–Stevens Point, and pursued plans for a Christian Day School. The essay highlights challenges such as local religious demographics and financial constraints, while emphasizing God’s providence in opening mission doors. Membership statistics and milestones illustrate the congregation’s growth and commitment to gospel ministry. —Abstract created by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)