Project helps all involved

Published 12:00 am Saturday, June 7, 2003

At the end of last summer, the Trinity Parish Council in Lyle wasn't sure if it was going to continue the drive-in services at Mona Lutheran Church in Mona, Iowa.

Attendance was down from last year, but the council decided to see if it could keep the services going for at least another season.

The tradition of a drive-in service started in 1972 with an old chicken coop, elevated by a foundation.

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The church attracted carloads of parishioners each weekend for an evening service full of music and guest speakers. Afterward, they lingered to chat with one another on those summer nights.

Earlier this year, a 16-year-old Lyle Boy Scout and parishioner at Six Mile Grove Lutheran Church decided he wanted his Eagle Scout ranking. His family suggested he fix up the outdoor building used for the drive-ins for his project.

This past week Nick Ehret and his family and friends renovated the outdoor worship building -- just in time for parishioners to enjoy tonight.

Ehret commented that he thought it was good he was helping keep a tradition alive for the parish.

Pastor Lydia Mittag thought the renovation was a welcome boost to the services.

We think it's a good partnership because it's a project that has positive outcomes for both parities.

The church was willing to put up funds to allow Ehret to complete the project. Because of the project, he can become an Eagle Scout.

And the church has renewed hope in a long-standing tradition that attracts about 60 people each Sunday.

We commend both for working together to make the renovation possible.