Concordia Lutheran Church

Tucked away in the Bronx, Concordia Lutheran Church has a story to tell. It’s a story of music, migration, and mergers. Concordia Lutheran Church first opened its doors in 1905. The original location was at Brook Avenue and East 144th Street. The congregation didn’t stay there long. They moved to Oak Terrace and Crimmins in 1906. Another move happened in 1918, this time to Brook Avenue and East 142nd Street. This is where they acquired a very special instrument. The Estey Organ Company, Opus 1321, became the heart of their musical worship. This organ has its own unique history. It was originally built for a private residence in Brooklyn, the J.P. Mueller Residence. The exact date of its installation at Concordia Lutheran Church remains a mystery. We do know, however, from the Estey Organ Company’s shop order, that it was voiced on 4″ wind pressure. The console was made of birch with a mahogany finish. The front pipes had a beautiful bronzed finish. Concordia Lutheran Church’s organ boasted two manuals, eight stops, and eight ranks, including a Great Organ and a Swell Organ. It even had a Pedal Organ with a 30-note Bourdon. Eventually, Concordia Lutheran Church merged with St. John’s Lutheran Church, creating Concordia-St. John’s Lutheran Church. This union marked a new chapter in the church’s history. The story of Concordia Lutheran Church is a testament to the enduring power of faith and community. It’s a reminder that even amidst change, the spirit of worship and music can thrive.