Did you know that St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Minneapolis boasts a history intertwined with the inspiring tale of Andrew Carnegie? This isn’t just any church. St. John’s is a vibrant Lutheran community a place where faith thrives in the heart of South Minneapolis.
Founded in 1867 by a small group of German immigrants it began as Evangelische Lutheranische St. Johannes Kirche of St. Anthony. They initially met in a Northeast Minneapolis schoolhouse. Their dedication led them to purchase land and build a church in 1869. This could seat 165 people. They also constructed a schoolhouse and parsonage.
The church’s early records were sadly lost in a fire in 1881. This unfortunately erased much of their early history. However the story of St. John’s continues. The congregation significantly expanded its building adding a vestibule belfry steeple and sanctuary.
Rev Paul Dowidat’s long tenure as pastor from 1904 to 1962 is noteworthy. Under his leadership the church built a magnificent Gothic structure. This was at Broadway and Washington streets NE. It was constructed of Colfax stone. The cost was $22950.
Raising funds for a pipe organ proved challenging. The Ladies Aid Society fell short by $1000. Pastor Dowidat cleverly wrote to Andrew Carnegie. He described the church’s need. Carnegie a known lover of church music sent a generous check for $1000. The church was dedicated on February 26 1911.
St. John’s has weathered the storms of time and war. World War I and World War II saw many of its members serve. The church adapted its programs. It even discontinued its German school. It underwent significant remodeling in 1938. This expansion included new club rooms a choir loft and an enlarged kitchen stage and study.
Through renovations and changing times St. John’s remained a steadfast presence. It opened a Christian Day School in 1975. This served the community for almost 30 years. The church continues to evolve its ministries. Today St. John’s offers events like the annual Handel’s Messiah performance. It hosts Holy Conversations viewing and discussing episodes of the television series “The Chosen”. The church also provides a vibrant space for community events. A place where people gather for fellowship and faith.
So here we stand before St. John’s a testament to resilience faith and community. A place where history echoes in the stained-glass windows and the spirit of Andrew Carnegie’s generosity lingers.