Founded in 1947 the Cross of Glory Evangelical Lutheran Church stands proudly in Detroit Michigan. This isn’t just any church. It’s a testament to faith resilience and community. Its history is one of constant change and growth a journey mirroring the lives of its members.
Initially known as the American Lutheran Church of Homer Township the Cross of Glory began its life holding services in a junior high school. Pastor Robert F Rodewald was its first full-time pastor a pivotal figure in the church’s early years. The congregation quickly outgrew its temporary home. A site was purchased and in 1983 groundbreaking began for a new building.
Christmas Eve of 1983 marked a momentous occasion. The first worship service was held in the new building on Bell Road. This wasn’t just the completion of a building project. It symbolized a new chapter for the church. Pastor Wayne Koetz’s dedication sermon highlighted the church’s ongoing evolution. He noted the lack of carpeting a subtle metaphor for the church’s continuous growth and adaptation.
The following years saw many changes. The church adopted a new name Cross of Glory Lutheran Church. A contemporary service was added to its worship routine. The church also expanded its outreach developing a strong ministry of caring. It actively served the Detroit Regent Park and Burbank communities.
Significant changes were underway in the Lutheran denomination itself. The merging of three Lutheran bodies formed the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America ELCA. Cross of Glory proudly joined the ELCA becoming part of a larger network of faith.
The late 1980s and early 1990s were a time of transition. The church faced challenges including budget deficits and internal conflict. Yet despite these difficulties the church’s leadership decided to press on. The congregation’s third pastor Kelly Fryer helped to redefine Cross of Glory’s mission. They sold their building and started afresh.
A new chapter began in a school gymnasium. Cross of Glory remained dedicated to its mission of sharing God’s love. It created a vision statement and a set of guiding principles that guided its growth. These principles emphasized Jesus as Lord welcoming all people and the transformative power of love.
The church eventually purchased a new 15-acre site. A new ministry center was constructed. It became a hub for community activities and various ministries including a preschool and a counseling center. Over the years Cross of Glory has been led by several pastors each leaving their unique mark. The church has consistently adapted to changing times remaining a vibrant center of faith. The church’s story is an ongoing one of adapting and growing a testament to the enduring spirit of its members and their faith. Cross of Glory remains a pillar in the Detroit community a beacon of hope for years to come.