In 1924, a small group of Scandinavians in northeast Minneapolis laid the foundation for what would become Elmwood Evangelical Free Church. Elmwood Church’s journey began as a Lutheran assembly. Their first church stood at the corner of 26th and McKinley Street N.E. The church saw a period of spiritual revival, with all-night prayer meetings and many feeling called to missions. This growth led to a move in 1965. A new church was built on Chelmsford Road in St. Anthony Village. Elmwood continued to grow. An addition with a larger sanctuary was built during the 1980s. In 1994, Elmwood Evangelical Free Church joined the Evangelical Free Church of America. A new chapter began in 2018. Members from Park Community Church and Centennial Church joined with remaining Elmwood members. Together, they sought to revitalize Elmwood’s ministry. This revitalization included the appointment of Pastor John Stromberg and Pastor Matt. In the fall of 2022, Pastor Matt left to plant Grafted Community Church. Elmwood Evangelical Free Church, throughout its history, has maintained a consistent mission. They remain a multi-generational church, inviting everyone to experience the life-changing message of Jesus. In 2024, Elmwood Evangelical Free Church celebrated 100 years of ministry.
The Afrocentric Spectrum Mural
What whispers do the walls of a city hold? The Afrocentric Spectrum Mural, here on University Avenue, speaks volumes about