A Glimpse of People and Events in the Founding and Early Years of St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church, Oakwood, Wisconsin, 1832-1852

Abstract

W. Paul Brinkman’s historical essay offers a vivid portrait of the founding and formative years of St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Oakwood, Wisconsin. Set against the backdrop of early settlement in Oak Creek Township, Brinkman explores the lives of German immigrants who established the congregation in 1843. He details the challenges of frontier life, the settlers’ spiritual needs, and the congregation’s early worship practices. The essay highlights key figures such as Dan Goelzer and Ehrenfried Seebach, and pastors including John Weinmann, a founder of the Wisconsin Synod, and Gustav Rausch, whose rationalistic leanings led to a congregational split and the formation of the Paynesville Chapel. Brinkman also recounts the rebuilding efforts under Pastor Conrad Koester. Drawing on church records, local histories, and personal recollections, the essay paints a rich picture of faith, perseverance, and community in the face of hardship and doctrinal conflict. —Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)