St. Matthew Lutheran Church to break ground on sanctuary

MARATHON CITY – St. Matthew Evangelical Lutheran Church announced this week it will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for its new sanctuary in mid August.

The event will be held at 11 a.m. Aug. 18 at 300 Highway NN, Marathon City.

St. Matthew Lutheran Church has been a cornerstone of spiritual growth and community service since 1887.

The new building will provide expanded facilities, including ministry center offices, to accommodate the growing congregation and enhance the church’s ability to serve the community through worship, fellowship and outreach programs. Worship space will seat more than 300 people.

“This new sanctuary represents our commitment to faith, community and future generations,” said Pastor Ben Phelps. “It is a place where all are welcome, and we can continue to grow in our mission to serve and share the good news of the Savior Jesus.”

Pastor Jon Hadler, who has served at St. Matthew’s since 1999, said the church’s ministry has grown dramatically in the last five years after merging with two smaller congregations, opening a childcare center and increasing the number of workers.

“It’s exciting to see where the Lord is taking us,” he said.

The groundbreaking ceremony will include a short service featuring remarks from church leaders and the ceremonial turning of the soil. The community is invited to attend, stay for refreshments and take a tour of the Little Lions childcare–a ministry of St. Matthew.