The Next 25 Years - 
2004-Present

​Enjoying that momentum, the trustees, elders, and church members present met on January 26, 2020, for an earnest discussion of further facility needs. Discussions began regarding a possible remodel to the current fellowship hall, kitchen, and office. A high priority was moving the Pastor’s office from the 2nd floor of the church to a more accessible location on the ground floor. Along with the remodel, the group discussed the construction of a new, larger fellowship hall and kitchen which would be attached to the existing hall via a hallway between the old and new building. 

 

On March 17, 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic hit Mondovi and the world, bringing in-person church services to a grinding halt. It was during this time that Pastor Scott and the church leaders devised a plan to continue to bring in-person worship services to the congregation. Pastor Scott’s knowledge of technology, along with the guidance of the Lord, brought Zion into the age of live stream, and the Zion Mondovi YouTube channel was begun. 

 

During the pandemic lockdown, in addition to the livestream, Zion also offered a drive-through Sunday Service blessing with communion taken in the car. Sunday School packets were sent to students. As social distancing began to be lifted somewhat, online registration for a seat in church was started to allow for small groups to gather and worship according to social distancing guidelines. An additional service on Sunday mornings was added to accommodate more parishioners and allow for reduced capacities in the church. The church custodian was diligent in keeping all surfaces clean and disinfected. 

 

The pandemic could not stop Zion from sharing the word of God! In December 2020, the Zion Youth Group held a live nativity outside the church. The Evangelism Group sponsored a reverse advent calendar in which the congregation could collect food items for those in need. A family activity kit for Christmas was sent to the Sunday School families. Again, online signup for Christmas Services was used due to the limited capacity allowed in the church during this time.

 

With discussions still ongoing during the pandemic regarding the proposed building project/remodel, the go-ahead for this huge project was approved at a Special Voter’s Meeting in February 2021. Because the meeting was held during the pandemic, a Zoom option was made available to the congregation so that those who desired, could attend the meeting virtually. By paper ballot a majority of the voters approved proceeding with the remodel/building project. 

 

By the blessing of the Lord our God, social distancing rules were gradually relaxed. In March 2021, hymnals returned to the pews. The Ladies’ Society was again allowed to serve food at funerals and coffee at Bible Study. There was a live Easter presentation on Easter Sunday, with a drive-through Easter Breakfast sponsored by the confirmation class and their families.

 

All during the pandemic, plans progressed for the building project that was underway. Pledges were given by the congregation, with a thermometer display chart to show the amount that had been pledged to date. During May 2021, the demolition of the old fellowship hall occurred. Groundbreaking for the new space was also begun. Much of the work was done by member volunteers. Construction continued throughout the summer. The most significant challenges were related to the supply chain disruptions experienced as a result of the pandemic. 

 

On January 9, 2022, the dedication of the remodeled space was held. The remodeled space contains a lobby, a library, a Bible classroom, the Pastor’s and the Adminstrative Assistant’s Office, and a shared multi-purpose office/copy room for the finance team and other committees. 

 

After passing the building inspection, the new Fellowship Hall was dedicated on February 27, 2022, with great joy. On Easter of 2023, a Donor Tree and plaque were hung in the Fellowship Hall in thanksgiving for all who had supported the project. The new space, along with its large viewing screen and new sound system, allowed for an expanded gathering area for Bible study, church dinners, and other church functions. 

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In the spring of 2024, Pastor Johnson received and accpeted a call to Immanuel Lutheran in Fargo, North Dakota. ​A going away dinner for him and his family was well attended by many members of the congregation and community. His last sermon was on June 9, 2024. 

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A call committee was formed. Zion was blessed to have in its membership, a retired pastor, Mark Benning. Pastor Benning graciously stepped into the role of vacancy pastor in the interim.​

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