Did you know that Christus Lutheran Church’s cornerstone was laid in 1833? Right here before us stands a testament to faith perseverance and community. Christus Lutheran Church wasn’t always this grand structure. It began humbly in 1832. One Frederick Wampole was appointed to collect funds for its construction. Members pledged money. A site was chosen on Sumneytown Road. During the winter of 1832-1833 materials were gathered and hauled. Isaac Wampole and stonemason John Dixey laid the cornerstone. Inside they placed a Bible a German hymnbook Luther’s Catechism and a Reformed Catechism. They also included the names of President Andrew Jackson and Governor George Wolf.
The church’s completion in 1838 cost $2178.64. Reverend Jacob Wampole served as its first pastor. He even refused a salary. He served until 1834 returning three years later until his death in 1838. The congregation faced disagreements. Later they built a new church on land bought from Michael Fritz. This new building was consecrated in 1912. The old church was sold for $152.40 profit.
Christus Lutheran Church shared services with Trinity Lutheran in Lansdale. Services were initially in German and English shifting solely to English in 1918. In 1919 Homer A Weaver became pastor. He served for 48 years overseeing the construction of Weaver Hall. The church continued to evolve electing its first woman to the Church Council in 1969. They established a Mission and Goals Statement. Pastor Russell L Brubaker Jr’s leadership shaped the governance. Pastor Richard Stephens’ twenty-eight years saw immense growth. The church expanded its building mission outreach and social ministry.
They even called their first Associate Pastor Asha George-Guiser. Ellen Meissgeier followed. Then came Thomas E Kadel who led disaster response to Hurricane Katrina. He established a disaster chaplaincy training program. His commitment to hunger ministry resulted in the Shepherd’s Shelf Food Cupboard in 2004. After twenty-two years Pastor Kadel retired but remained active in hunger relief. Serena Sellers served as pastor from 2017 to 2024. The church adapted by opening its doors to community activities and expanding its ministry to the homeless. They added internet access in 2019. They even adapted to the pandemic by moving services online.
Christus Lutheran Church a testament to enduring faith stands as a vibrant part of Philadelphia’s history. Almost 190 years of dedicated leadership and community it looks toward the future while cherishing its rich past. The church stands as a living symbol of the congregation’s unwavering devotion. Its story is one of resilience adaptation and continuous service.