Picture this: A sturdy stone church stands proudly on First Avenue and E Street. This is the original Tabor First Lutheran Church in Salt Lake City. It’s not a church anymore. It houses an architectural firm now.
Tabor First Lutheran’s story began long before this building stood tall. In 1902 the United Danish Evangelical Lutheran Church sent missionaries to Utah. They sought to minister to Danish Lutherans already here and those who would later arrive. A significant sum almost $15000 was sent from the State Church of Denmark to help buy land and build.
Pastor Harold Jensen a Dane from Tvilumgaard arrived in Salt Lake City. In 1907 he started searching for Lutherans. He began building the first Tabor First Lutheran Church. The dedication of this original building took place in August 1911. Services were mostly held in Danish reflecting the congregation’s heritage. Pastor Jensen’s dedication extended beyond Salt Lake City. He also worked in Pocatello Idaho Ogden Utah and Spanish Fork Utah. The early pastors of Tabor First Lutheran were not just spiritual leaders. They were also missionaries. They carried the faith across Utah and even into Idaho.
The congregation grew. By 1960 Tabor First Lutheran boasted around 400 members. They needed a bigger space. An acre of land was purchased at 700 East and 200 South. A modern round church designed by Charles D. Peterson a member of the congregation was built. The new building was dedicated in 1965 by Pastor Arthur V Sorenson. The original building however remained a cherished part of Tabor’s history.
The current Tabor First Lutheran Church is a testament to faith and adaptation. It continues to serve the Salt Lake City community with varied ministries a strong music program and community outreach. This vibrant church stands as a lasting symbol of a community’s enduring spirit. Its rich past reflects the journeys of Danish immigrants and their enduring legacy in Salt Lake City. The original building on First Avenue and E Street a silent yet powerful reminder of the church’s humble beginnings. The story of Tabor First Lutheran is a testament to faith perseverance and growth. It’s a story that echoes through the years. A story that deserves to be shared.