Salem Evangelical Covenant Church, Rural Oakland, NE

Salem Evangelical Covenant Church is a quaint, simply decorated church located southwest of Oakland.

The nave of the church is square shaped, rather than the usual rectangular to bring the congregation into closer proximity with each other as well as the pastor.

Lots of subtle curves! Pews, windows, arches, ceiling. Subtle, simple, and beautiful.

The ceiling of the church features sweeping Gothic-like ribbing.

The windows are a newer addition to the church, but fit the overall scheme very well.

Salem Cemetery is located one half mile west of the church and is the resting place of many early Swedish settlers. Many of the gravestones are marked with Scriptural verses written in Swedish as well as other interesting inscriptions.

The above gravestone bears this heart-rending memorial:
We miss thee from our home mother, We miss thee from thy place, A shadow o'er our life is cast; We miss the sunshine of thy face, We miss thy kind and willing hand, Thy fond and earnest care; Our home is dark without thee, We miss thee everywhere.

Another inspiring inscription: She is gone to the land where the weary enjoy the sweet rapture of sacred repose.

The view from the cemetery is spectacular. The rolling hills of the surrounding farmland make for a truly peaceful and reflective experience.