November 2025
At Messiah Lutheran in Sterling, God has knit together a people with a deep sense of unity, forged through both challenge and
endurance. The congregation, which joyfully celebrated its 150th anniversary this year, carries with it a long history—many members have lifelong ties to the church and to one another. Pastor Chad Bolosan notes that this bond has been strengthened through trials, leaving the congregation with a resilient spirit and a strong sense unity.
The congregation’s heart for mission extends beyond its walls. They have faithfully supported Mission Central, overseas missionaries and their families, the seminaries, and their District (Northern Illinois). Now, Messiah is looking toward closer unity with sister LCMS churches in the region, believing that by working together they can better serve their communities. Already, shared ministry efforts are growing—joint worship services, a Circuit newsletter, and partnerships connected through a Lutheran school. These steps are opening doors for collaboration in both ministry and fellowship.
The years before Pastor Bolosan’s arrival were difficult. Following an 18-month vacancy and the weight of COVID restrictions, attendance waned and energy diminished. Yet, even in that season, God kept His people hungering for His Word and for gathering together. Since then, the congregation has seen many return, and they are experiencing fresh signs of renewal. One joyful marker of growth is the rise in children and youth involvement, so much so that the congregation is in the process of calling a Director of Christian Education to strengthen their ministry.
Support and openness have marked this season of ministry. Pastor Bolosan describes how the congregation has been receptive to new initiatives, willing to welcome volunteers, and eager to gather for fellowship. He has observed a deepening of faith among members, moving from what once felt like a more surface-level understanding to a more intimate walk with God. Joy in worship is complemented by joy in simply spending time together, both within the congregation and alongside sister churches.
Still, challenges remain. Like many congregations, Messiah faces the realities of an aging membership and the difficulty of connecting with younger families, many of whom are pulled away by weekend commitments. Yet Pastor Bolosan remains steadfast, focusing on preaching and teaching the blessings of God and the joy of sharing Christ with others. “It’s a slow process,” he reflects, “but teaching is a core of what a church is called to do.”
Messiah’s presence in Sterling is woven deeply into the life of the village. The congregation has long supported community events and continues to foster relationships through service. There is joy, too, in seeing individuals who had left in past years return to the congregation, drawn back into fellowship.
Looking forward, Pastor Bolosan hopes to see youth and children’s ministry grow even stronger, while deepening partnerships with area congregations. He invites prayers for continued wisdom in fostering fellowship with sister churches, with a balance of collaboration and respect. In this way, Messiah Lutheran looks both backward with gratitude for 150 years of God’s faithfulness and forward with hope for the Spirit’s work still unfolding.
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