OVER 200 YEARS:  HISTORY OF GOOD HOPE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH OF NORTH LIMA, OHIO

In 1806 the Lutherans elected trustees and this is regarded as the date of organization of the Good Hope Lutheran Congregation located at North Lima. The Lutheran and Reformed congregations built a log church which was dedicated in 1810. The two congregations named the church “Good Hope Church”. The two churches worshipped together harmoniously in this log church for 51 years, until 1861, when the Reformed congregation built a new church. Sometime during 1869-1874, there was a separation of the Lutherans from the reformed congregation.

In 1870, the “Good Hope” Lutherans built a new brick church about 100 yards from the old location. On July 27, 1947, the congregation optioned the brick church to the North Lima Board of Education for $15,000. The last service in this church was the Union Thanksgiving Service, held the evening of November 21, 1948. From that time until February 10, 1952, the congregation worshipped in the North Lima School auditorium/gymnasium.

In 1951, the new Gothic Church, seating 160, was dedicated at the intersection of Route 7 and 165. The plans that were approved provided a narthex, nave, chancel, sacristy, and parlor on the upper level, and a nursery, primary room, fellowship hall, stage, kitchen, toilets, and a mechanical room on the lower level. The cost of the Church was $90,000 and a two-manual electronic organ was installed at a cost of $3,000.

A new seven room brick parsonage was built in 1958 at a cost of approximately $25,000, and the old parsonage sold for approximately $11,000.

Over the years, many renovations have occurred in the church building. In 1967, the Chancel wall behind the altar was changed to provide a walnut panel with a fourteen foot “back lighted” aluminum and walnut cross.

On September 10, 1978, a stainless steel bell tower, which stands 52 feet from its base to the top of the cross, was dedicated. The bell from the original Church is centered in a diamond; the top of the diamond points to the cross as a reminder of God’s presence and the sacrifice of His Son. The lower point is a reminder that God’s people on earth are to be served, an the compass points are reminders that the word of God is for all people everywhere.

In 1990, an addition, including a chapel, narthex, and offices were dedicated. This provided a place for small group worship, meetings, and socialization. The beauty of the Church was further enhanced by the installation of a large window with a dove etched in it.

In 2000, a renovation of the front of the church was done. Seating for the choir was moved behind the altar and the area was made more open. New windows, a furnace and air conditioner was installed in the parsonage, expanded ministries , created a mission statement and motto and re-connected with Camp Federick and began joint ministry

In 2005 a new portable sound system was purchased and began a community daycamp with other churches.

In 2020 added monitors to the sanctuary toenhance worship.

In 2021 began the ministry of serving the community at Music in the Park.

In 2024 began a family Bible study.