Celebrating 70 years of fellowship.
1953 — 2023
In 1953 our church started as Zion Lutheran Church, and became Baptism River Community Church when it was rebuilt in 2016 .
Community Oral Histories
In the fall of 2022, several long-time members of our congregation were interviewed by Carol Langer as part of a larger oral history project through the Minnesota Historical Society and with the intention of preserving the knowledge and memories of our church. These are listed below. Enjoy!
Linda Nikolai
September 20, 2022
Two Harbors, MN
Moving to the area and living with her family as a young girl on Highway 1 for a time while her father worked to build the plant in Silver Bay, Linda became a lifelong resident of Finland after she stayed and married Bob Nikolai in 1957. Throughout her life she was an active and vibrant member of BRCC, and served as secretary for many years.
Don Runnberg
September 13, 2022
Finland, MN
Don Runnberg discusses his family’s history and relationship to Isabella and areas north and their move to Finland. He also discusses his involvement in building the building for Zion Lutheran and the current church building process.
Millie and Sugar Goette
September 13, 2022
Finland, MN
Millie and Sugar Goette discuss lifelong memories and experiences with Zion Lutheran Church.
Ellen and Karsten Hogenson
September 13, 2022
Finland, MN
Ellen and Karsten started their life in the Finland/Silver Bay area with a teaching position at Silver Bay Public Schools in 1961. They discuss their involvement with Zion Lutheran, wreath making, working with Reserve mining, and more.
Jim & Verna Sinderman
September, 2022
Finland, MN
Jim and Verna talk about their life in Finland, Booya, the fire on July 6, 2013,
Greg Hanson
September 20, 2022
Finland, MN
Moving to the community in 2013 with his wife Cindy, Greg Hanson talks about his time being part of the Finland community and BRCC.