New Mormon Church

Groundbreaking ceremonies to mark the construction of a $1.1 million church building were conducted yesterday afternoon in Gallatin by leaders, members and missionaries of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Approximately 75 persons witnessed the historic event — the first new Mormon church building construction in Daviess County in over 160 years.

Dirt work is already evident at the new church’s location at the junction of Ash Street and Highway 6 in Gallatin, across from Gallatin Area Business Park. The general contractor for the building is Excel Constructors of Overland Park, KS.

The new church building, for the present membership of 175 people, will be made of red brick with white columns of a colonial style. It is hoped that construction will be completed before the end of this year. The church is designed for easy expansion should that need arise in the future.

Austin Bonnett, president of the Gallatin Branch, offered a brief history in remarks following an invocation delivered by Elder Russell Hopkins.

The ceremonies here were planned for April 6 for a reason. Mr. Bonnett noted that on April 6, 1830, six men became the first members of what became commonly known as the Mormon church. Today, Mormon membership numbers approximately 12 million people in 140 countries worldwide. The church, worldwide, is growing at a rate of between 20,000 and 30,000 members per month.

The Gallatin Branch was established in June, 2001. Church members met at Gallatin R-5 School during their first year, then relocated to use the former Hope Funeral Home building for church meetings and activities until the present time. By erecting a new church, Mr. Bonnett expressed hopes that the new church would stand as declaration to the world that God lives, as a refuge for those weathering the trials of life, and as a community asset serving Gallatin and the surrounding area.

Detlef Lehnardt, president of the Liberty (Mo.) Stake, also spoke during the ceremonies. He stated his appreciation for the support from citizens and leaders of Gallatin as this building project becomes reality. Mr. Lehnardt recognized Mayor John Thomas, Alderperson Norma Griffin, and Administrator Toby Dougherty, who were in attendance. Lehnardt noted that although church property is tax exempt, the new church would most probably be a good utility customer for the City of Gallatin.

“This new church building will most likely be used by many busloads of tourists coming to Adam-Ondi-Ahman each year,” Mr. Lehnardt said. “We anticipate a healthy, growing church congregation here in Gallatin, one that will grow at a reasonable rate and in step with the community.”

Church and civic leaders used gold-painted shovels to officially turn the first dirt. Then other church members worked the shovels, including 11 Mormon couples now serving their 18-month term in missionary work at Adam-Ondi-Ahman, as well as children. Hymns of praise and poems were also read during ceremonies.