Our pastor is Dr. Frederick W. Baltz
who has been preaching the Word for more than 30 years-all
right here. He is also a teacher, a writer, and a biblical
scholar, known for bringing the Scriptures to life.
Dr. Baltz specializes in the Gospel of
John. A book he wrote, published in 1996, became a catalyst
for present-day discussions of that Gospel's origins
among professors and other New Testament scholars.
Dr. Baltz has also related biblical stories
to the sky through a combined use of the ancient texts
and modern technology. That's why we are the only church
in the world with its own planetarium dome where we
will be happy to welcome you or your group.
In addition he has contributed to the
production of videos which have been telecast worldwide
on the Trinity Broadcast Network.
Many have said through the years that
they find Dr. Baltz's messages thoroughly biblical,
carefully-thought-out, and relevant for their lives.
Dr. Baltz is married to Cindia, and they
have four children.
About Jan Etzel
Music and Choir Director
Jan Etzel began her formal music education at
the age of 7 under the direction of Mrs. Gladys Mulkern.
She later changed teachers and continued studying piano
and theory instruction with Mrs. Margaret Corbyn.
After graduating from high school, she entered the
Director of Parish Music Program at Concordia University
in River Forest, IL. There studied voice instruction
with Dr. Thomas Geischen, piano with Dr. Julia Hennig,
pipe organ with Dr. Herbert Goetsch, and music theory
and composition with Dr. Paul Bunjes.
She and her family moved to Galena in August, 1986.
They immediately became members of St. Matthew Lutheran
Church and began serving the congregation as organist
on August 2, 1987. Jan started the St. Matthew Choir
in 1996.
