Did you notice the limestone exterior? It speaks volumes about Diamond Lake Lutheran Church’s enduring presence. Two lots were purchased at the south end of Diamond Lake for the congregation’s first building. This was a small wood-framed chapel. It was painted red to resemble a country church in Sweden.
By 1952, the congregation needed more space. The present-day sanctuary of gothic design was built. It features a limestone exterior. In 1960, a building was constructed to the west of the sanctuary. It was for church and community activities. A 1987 renovation filled the space between the buildings. Another renovation was completed in 2022. It created new gathering spaces for community use.
Diamond Lake Lutheran Church is not just for Sundays. Worship services are every Sunday at 9:30 am. You’ll find activities inside and outside the building throughout the week as well. Wednesday evenings are especially busy. There is a community meal and Kids Club. Youth Group and the Lakeview Forum also take place.
Each person is gifted with unique talents and interests. Using these gifts alongside others helps Diamond Lake to carry out its mission. This mission is to learn, follow, and serve.
Diamond Lake Lutheran Church is the host congregation for a long-standing south Minneapolis multi-church day camp. It is sponsored by more than a dozen congregations. These days of faith formation are fun and safe. They are Christ-centered with worship, crafts, music, and games. The week builds a beloved community. Day Camp is for children entering kindergarten through high school. There is a separate middle school track. High schoolers can find leadership opportunities with the younger kids.
Members of Diamond Lake Lutheran Church come from South Minneapolis. They also come from many parts of the metro area. Diamond Lake is a member congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. It is specifically part of the Minneapolis Area Synod of the ELCA.
When you arrive, friendly greeters will welcome you with warm smiles. You can begin your morning with hot coffee. A Bogart’s Doughnut and conversation are also available. During worship, you’ll experience a blend of liturgy and Bible readings. An inspiring sermon is also part of the service. Children are actively engaged in the worship service. Features include the Pray-Ground at the front of the sanctuary. There is also the Sermon on the Steps. Holy Communion is celebrated every week.
Award-winning Dr. Kevin Hobbs plays the organ and grand piano. The choir is led by Dr. Bruce Gleason. Services regularly include the children’s and Carillon choirs. Chuck Linderkamp leads these choirs.
Every Sunday after worship, the Congregational Fellowship Hour is held. It offers diverse programming for all ages. This includes the youngest children to the oldest members and visitors. Some weeks feature Intergenerational Sunday School. It focuses on the Bible story arc from that day’s worship. Other weeks include one-on-one conversations. Service projects, puzzles, and board games are also available. Guest speakers may also be featured. The Fellowship Hour concludes by noon each week.
Consider Diamond Lake Lutheran Church. It is more than just a building. It’s a vibrant community. It embraces faith, service, and fellowship.