Beneath this Savannah sky stands Trinity Lutheran Church. It is a beacon of faith and community. Trinity Lutheran Church has a history rooted in service and growth. Let’s step back in time and explore its story.
It began in 1941 with Martin Luther Lutheran Church. This church was built on Waters Avenue and 50th Street. The buildings were made of hand-cut red brick. By 1946 the congregation was officially organized. A significant portion of its members, about 60%, were military personnel.
Fast forward to 1970 and big changes were on the horizon. Four acres of property were purchased on Mercy Boulevard. A new church building was dedicated on May 9, 1971. In 1972, the church was incorporated. It was then renamed Trinity Lutheran Church. The congregation continued to grow. A new sanctuary was added in 1978. Interestingly, they kept the original marble baptismal font from Martin Luther Lutheran Church. It is still in use today.
Growth spurred further expansion. By 2004 another new sanctuary and social hall were dedicated. The original building now serves as the Education Building and Youth Center.
Trinity Lutheran Church has been led by several dedicated pastors. Rev. Paul Steyer served from 1953 to 1957. Rev. William Reinhardt followed from 1958 to 1963. Rev. Paul H. Reuter served from 1963 to 1964. USAF Chaplain Paul Ludwig also assisted during this period. Rev. Donald W. Lunick led from 1964 to 1973. Rev. Stephen Schroeder had a long tenure from 1974 to 2006. Rev. Bob Besalski was an interim pastor in 2006 and 2007. Rev. John Hopkins served from 2007 to 2017. Rev. Jeff Webb has been serving since 2017, initially as an interim and then as pastor.
A stunning stained-glass window graces the rear of the sanctuary. It aligns with the center aisle and complements the cross above the altar. Sunlight illuminates the window during morning worship. At night, lights ensure it can be seen from outside. Paula Ryan designed the window based on a theme established by Trinity Lutheran Church. The window is large, measuring 9 feet by 13 feet. It is divided into sections. These sections are supported by structural elements that have become symbols.
These symbols include a fish, trinity symbol, chalice, cradle, and egg. The window frame was installed in phases from 2003 to 2004. Cathedral glass with varying tints and textures was used. Silica was applied to selectively change the tint and form symbols. The image of Christ as The Risen Lord is central. It is about 5 feet 6 inches tall. The banner near the fish says “Nothing can separate Me from…” This is from Romans 8:38-39. The open Bible in the fish tail displays “For God so loved…” from John 3:16.
Trinity Lutheran Church extends its reach beyond its walls. The church actively engages in social ministry. They coordinate social action programs. These programs address the needs of the congregation community and society. They support local schools through the Backpack Ministry. They provide school supplies and nurse’s items. The Hearts of Compassion ministry assists homeless and low-income families with clothes and food. They also create health kits and first aid kits.
The Food Pantry offers food for families in need. It operates on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The Blessing Box is available all week. Trinity Lutheran Church also provides hot meals for the homeless. They deliver these meals to small camps each Friday. Social Outreach is coordinated with other ministries. This involves supporting organizations like SafeShelter and the GA Southern Career Resource Center.
Trinity Lutheran Church partners with Bombas. Bombas donates essential clothing. Trinity Lutheran Church distributes socks in the southeast region.
Trinity Lutheran Church offers youth programs. These programs aim to engage and involve young people in the church and community. Sunday School, KFC, Confirmation, and High School Youth Group are all available. Vacation Bible School is a popular summer program. Milestones are offered for children preschool through 12th grade. These mark steps in their faith journey. The youth participate in mission trips and attend camps.
Trinity Lutheran Church isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to faith, service, and community. Its stained-glass window reflects not just light, but also the enduring spirit of its people.