Many pioneers settling in the Smoky Valley on the plains of Kansas journeyed far from their homes in Sweden.  They sought a better way of life and the choice to practice a religion free from the will of Sweden's state church.  These pioneers thrived in their newly adopted Kansas home.  They adjusted to a new American way of life, but the citizens of Lindsborg never lost sight of the culture and values that formed their Swedish heritage.

            One tradition that has sustained the life of this community through the years is the annual Messiah Festival.  In 1881, Reverend Carl Swensson, the founder of Bethany College in Lindsborg, and his wife, Alma, organized the Bethany Oratorio Society in the parsonage of Bethany Lutheran Church.  Alma taught the music and English words of "The Messiah" to 40 parishioners.  After a winter and spring of instruction, Bethany Lutheran Church began a storied tradition as host to this community celebration marking Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday with beautiful music.

            The enterprising spirit and strong Swedish heritage of the early pioneers who began the Messiah Festival has since led to great cultural and educational additions to the state of Kansas.  As the Messiah Festival tradition has grown, so has the town of Lindsborg, and Bethany College.  This liberal arts institution has expanded to offer baccalaureate degrees in over thirty fields to an enrollment of 600 full and part‑time students from 19 states and 12 countries.  The Lindsborg community continues to honor its foundation of cultural expression by hosting art and music festivals and offering unique arts, crafts and import gift shops.

            It is with great pleasure that I represent this Kansas community in Congress.  Lindsborg demonstrates how collaboration, a rich cultural heritage, and appreciation for beautiful music celebrating the Lord can create a tradition worthy of 125 years of repeating.