Old Apostolic Lutheran Church

Hidden within Minnetonka, the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church whispers tales of a unique faith. The Old Apostolic Lutheran Church isn’t just a building. It’s a testament to the Firstborn Laestadian movement that found its home in North America in the 1890s. This church, part of the larger Old Apostolic Lutheran Church of America, holds a distinct place within the tapestry of American Christianity. The Old Apostolic Lutheran Church’s origins trace back to a revival within the Church of Sweden, a Lutheran body that recognized the Laestadian movement and allowed them to hold their own services. This connection to the Church of Sweden, even on American soil, speaks to the movement’s historical roots. The Old Apostolic Lutheran Church embraces a theology rooted in the Holy Bible, accepting the Apostles’ Creed, the Nicene-Constantinopolitan Creed, the Unaltered Augsburg Confession, and the original doctrine of Martin Luther. But it also draws heavily from the teachings of Lars Levi Laestadius, a 19th-century Swedish revivalist preacher whose influence shaped the Firstborn Laestadian movement. Interestingly, the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church maintains a strong tie to the elders of Swedish Lapland, looking to them for guidance and maintaining a sense of global unity within the Firstborn Laestadian movement. The Old Apostolic Lutheran Church has grown significantly over the years, largely due to its members’ belief in large families. While it boasts congregations across several states, including Washington, Michigan, Minnesota, and the Dakotas, the exact membership remains a mystery. The church doesn’t keep a formal roster. If you visit the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church, you’ll likely hear the greeting “God’s peace!” exchanged among members. It’s a hallmark of the Firstborn Laestadian tradition and a sign of the close-knit community. The Old Apostolic Lutheran Church’s services are led by lay preachers who don’t receive formal theological education or salaries. These preachers, chosen by the congregation, work full-time jobs while also fulfilling their preaching duties. The Old Apostolic Lutheran Church’s practices reflect its Laestadian heritage, with special services held for Christmas and Midsummer, often drawing attendees from across the country. The Old Apostolic Lutheran Church’s story continues to unfold, a blend of traditional Lutheranism and the unique fervor of the Firstborn Laestadian movement. It stands as a reminder of the diverse expressions of faith that enrich the American religious landscape.