This year marks a momentous occasion in the life of Concordia Lutheran Church in Concord as the congregation celebrates 140 years of unwavering faith, devoted service, and deep community roots.
Since its founding in 1885, the church has stood as a beacon of hope, a sanctuary of worship, and a cornerstone of faith and compassion in our area. Concordia is an Evangelica Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) Congregation.
A Legacy of Leadership and Love
Under the guidance of visionary pastors and dedicated church members, Concordia has expanded its ministry in following the way of God’s love. The church’s commitment to teaching the Word of God, supporting families, mentoring youth, honoring our legacy of believers and mission work beyond our walls continues to thrive today.
•28 Pastors have served the congregation
•Over 650 Confirmands
•Over 160 Weddings
•Over 750 Baptisms
•Over 300 Funerals
Milestones and Memories
Throughout its 140-year journey, Concordia has experienced countless milestones along the way. The community of Concord was founded by Swedish immigrants. Long-time members recall pivotal moments, while newer members are contributing to a fresh wave of growth.
•1885 – Pastors occasionally visited Swen G. Anderson's home southwest of Concord.
With 31 original charter members, two lots were donated to the church where services began at that location. Rev. Bergquist from Salem Lutheran Church in Wakefield helped organize the congregation with a salary of $150.
•1888 – Rev. J. P. Aurelius served until 1894 prior to the church being built.
•1890 – The church was built for $1150. A few years later, a stable for the horses was built and a bell was placed in the tower.
•1901 – The “Luther League” formerly known as “Concordia Young People’s Society” ran until 1981. This was a social group for young people in the church.
•1912 – Electric lighting was first used in the church.
•1929 – First Outdoor Service was held. A tradition that continues to this day.
•1933 – All services were in Swedish until this time. The church transitioned from Swedish to English, having one Swedish service a month until 1934 when services were then all in English.
•1951 – Baldwin organ was purchased, installed in 1952.
•1967 – A dual parish was formed with Concordia Lutheran Church, Concord, and First Lutheran Church in Allen. The two congregations have been together for 58 years.
•1978 – A gas furnace was installed as well as new ceiling tile in the basement.
•1988 - The Evangelical Lutheran Church of American (ELCA) was formed from American Lutheran Churches (ALC).
•2001 – Pastor Sarah Lutter was called as the first female pastor to Concordia.
•2019 – Concordia voted to become a Reconciling in Christ Congregation (RIC).
•2020 – Vicar Deb Hammer was called to Concordia as the second TEEM Candidate (Theological Education for Emerging Ministry). Pastor Karen Tjarks was the first candidate. TEEM is a seminary program to help a student through seminary.
•2023 – Deb Hammer graduated seminary and was called to be Concordia’s pastor for five years now.
Reflecting God’s Love:
A Mission Worth Celebrating
Concordia’s mission statement is: “Reflecting love in service to all through our family of faith.” Our Sunday gatherings, youth ministries, and outreach efforts are all reflections of God’s love poured out through us. We celebrate each year with a soup supper, ice cream social, mother-daughter tea, and potluck meals. We lift up events such as quilting, assembling school kits, health kits, collecting food for food pantries, and collecting special donations for other missions throughout the year.
"We have seen God move in powerful ways as our mission extends love beyond our church building, reaching communities in need both near and far. Members over the years have served in mission to other countries: Hong Kong, Kenya, Belize, Dominican Republic, Figi, Mexico and Tanzania," said Pastor Deb Hammer.
We Extend a Heartfelt
Invitation to You
To commemorate this remarkable anniversary, Concordia Lutheran Church has planned a special Anniversary Worship Service on Sunday, June 8 at 10:15 am. Pastor Heidi Wallace will be the guest speaker, and a special choir performance will be part of the celebration.
"We invite everyone to come and share in celebrating our legacy of love. All are welcome. Lunch, deserts and fellowship will be offered in the basement following our worship service," Pastor Hammer said.
“This celebration is more than looking back—it’s about honoring our past while embracing our future,” said Pastor Deb Hammer. “We give God all the glory for His faithfulness over the years and look forward to what He will continue to do through this ministry," she added.
Come, all are welcome at God’s table! — Looking Ahead
As Concordia Lutheran Church reflects on its 140-year legacy, the congregation remains committed to being a light in the community. With a renewed vision for outreach, discipleship, and worship, the church is hopeful that future generations will continue our shared faith of love and traditions with the same faith and fervor that inspired the legacy of the saints as they followed their faith and celebrated our church thus far.
