The Albert Lea Art Center would like to take this opportunity to thank the five area churches that participated in the first ever “Art, Architecture and History Tour” on Sept. 26. The United Methodist, First Lutheran, Christ Episcopal, Grace Lutheran and Crossroads churches opened their doors to the community, shared their stories and were gracious and welcoming hosts. We even enjoyed coffee and treats at the beginning and closing of the day.

The people on the tour had a wonderful experience, as their critique sheets attest. I would like to share some of their comments: “Very interesting. Great idea for a tour! The likenesses between the churches were amazing, yet they were all different. Would love to do this at other local churches.” “I enjoyed the day so much. I learned so much and I have been in all of the churches previously. Just hadn’t noticed.” “People are all the same everywhere, they just find different expressions of the same beliefs.” “Do it again sometime!”

When the Albert Lea Art Center board decided to add this event to our yearlong 50th anniversary celebration, we had no idea what the community response might be. While our tour group was smaller than we had hoped, we definitely had a quality experience, and we do plan to “Do it again sometime!”

Bev Jackson Cotter

co-chairwoman

Art, Architecture

and History Tour

Albert Lea Art Center

Albert Lea