Christ Lutheran Community Church

“Why did they ever leave such a beautiful place?” Whispered a tourist, awestruck by the grandeur of Christ Lutheran Community Church. It’s a question many ask when they first lay eyes on the impressive structure, tucked away on a quiet street in Philadelphia. The church building itself has a fascinating tale to tell, one that stretches back over a century. Christ Lutheran Community Church wasn’t always located here. It began its life in 1870 as the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Holy Communion, a dream of a group led by Reverend Joseph A. Seiss and even the Mayor of Philadelphia himself. Their vision took shape at Broad and Arch Streets, in a breathtaking edifice designed by the renowned architectural firm, Fraser, Furness, and Hewitt. Frank Furness, a celebrated architect of the time, lent his artistry to the church’s interiors. For twenty years, this magnificent building served its community, its walls echoing with hymns and prayers. However, the shifting sands of time brought change. The congregation faced financial challenges and dwindling membership. Relocating became a necessity. Yet, they carried the heart of their beloved church with them, preserving its altar, pulpit, and even the baptismal font. In 1903, the congregation found a new home in a building previously owned by St. Paul’s Reformed Episcopal Church. This building, designed by Isaac Pursell, a prominent architect of Protestant churches, became the new haven for the community of Christ Lutheran Church. They incorporated their salvaged treasures into the new space, seamlessly weaving their past into their present. The story of Christ Lutheran Community Church is a testament to the enduring spirit of faith and community.