Bethany Lutheran Church was founded by Swedish immigrants in 1892 and became a part of the Augustana Lutheran Church of America. Following the merger of severl Lutheran churches, it is now a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. A major renovation of the original building took place in 1978, including the refurbishing of the sanctuary and construction of a parish hall. The story of Bethany is no means complete. The faith and courage in God, given by our pioneers, will continue in the lives of the members today and future generations.

On June 26, 1852, the Presbyterian Church was established in Wenona, Illinois. In 1883, the congregation outgrew the original building and the present building was then erected. During the years various remodeling projects have made to update the church. September 1, 2002, the Wenona Presbyterian Church celebrated their 150th anniversary.

The first Methodist sermon was held in 1856 with six members. Traveling preachers on horseback held the services whenever and wherever they coud. In 1860, the first building was constructed and in 1887, sold to the Zion Lutheran church. The present structure was constructed in 1887, rebuilt in 1920 and has been remodeled and updated periodically. The sanctuary is highlighted by the pipe organ, which was installed in 1911 and is still in use. The people of the church play a vital role in the community of Wenona, adding to the spiritual and moral uplift and development of its people.

The first resident pastor was appointed by the Bishop of Chicago on November 24, 1867. The present church was build in 1888. The church operated a parochial school from 1899-1968. The school that was built in 1903 was torn down in 1999, and replaced with the present church hall.

In 1883, thirty years after the incorporation of the town of Wenona, a small group of German Lutherans recognized the need for a Lutheran congregation in the area. They called on the services of Rev. August Sippel of LaRose to help them form a congregation. Thus in 1883, Zion Lutheran Church was founded. After meeting in the city school, and later the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, Zion purchased the building of the Methodist Episcopal Church on the southeast corner of Walnut and 1st North St. in 1887. They have been in that building ever since. Fourteen pastors have served Zion in its 120 years history. Today the church has about two hundred baptized members, and is part of a dual parish with St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Varna.