Wasn’t it Rev. J A E Naess who started it all? Central Lutheran Church in Los Angeles a beacon of faith since 1925. This wasn’t always its home. It began as a mission church. The congregation originally spoke Norwegian. They later transitioned to English. This reflects a common trend among immigrant groups at that time.
Central Lutheran’s first home was far from here. A beautiful 1889 wooden church in Tacoma Washington. It was originally built for the First Presbyterian Church. Imagine the stories those walls could tell. Sadly in 1954 Pierce County ordered the church’s demolition. A new County-City Building was planned for the site. The last service in that building was on March 6 1955.
But the spirit of Central Lutheran was not extinguished. The congregation purchased land in Tacoma’s Stadium District. A new brick church was designed by the architectural firm Lea Pearson & Richards. Around 1200 members pledged to fund the construction. Many contributed their time and expertise. Groundbreaking ceremonies were held on April 29 1956. The congregation moved into their new home on June 16 1957. A grand dedication followed on October 13 1957. Three services drew a reported attendance of 2500 people.
The new sanctuary boasted beautiful stained-glass windows. Some were traditional pieces moved from the original building. Others were contemporary in liturgical colors. A massive haloed cross adorned the chancel wall. It represented the Star of Bethlehem. The church’s impressive pipe organ was also moved and enhanced. Even Virgil Fox a nationally known virtuoso played a concert there in the 1950s. The church also houses a nine-foot ebony grand piano. It originally belonged to Tacoma’s Temple Theater.
A seventy-foot-high bell tower with a rotating cross tops the building. This echoes the original church’s cross. That cross was visible to ships entering and leaving Commencement Bay. The new cross remains a city landmark. It’s visible from many parts of the city and its waterways. Central Lutheran Church a testament to enduring faith. A place of worship that continues to serve its community. It’s a rich history. A story of perseverance and dedication. It’s a place of peace and reflection. Let’s continue our tour.