“Organized in 1908” marks the beginning of the Epiphany Lutheran Church’s story. It began with faith-filled friends. They gathered in a hay barn on Annie and Frederick Powell’s property. Reverend Frederick Hightman led them. He was a newly ordained mission developer.
Originally named Grace Church, Epiphany shared its founding with St. John’s Church. Pastor Hightman organized both. From humble beginnings, Epiphany extended the good news. It built relationships with neighbors and local schools. They partnered with businesses and other community ministries.
Pastor Hightman served Epiphany from 1908 until his death in 1967. He erected the first church on the hay barn site. In 1924, the current church sanctuary was topped with the “God is Love” sign. He gave piano and violin lessons to Epiphany children. Though retired in 1937, he continued his service.
In May 1925, a drawing of the present Epiphany Lutheran Church building was published. It was located on Lincoln Place. Designed in the Gothic style, it had a fieldstone exterior. The new church included a gymnasium and a modern kitchen. An auditorium seated 800 people. A Sunday school room accommodated 600. There was also a parsonage. The cornerstone was laid on October 18, 1925. The facility cost an estimated $200,000. In 1930, the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer merged into Epiphany.
Pastor Hackmann modernized the church. He oversaw its ornate decoration. He brought scripture and faith to life. Attendance in worship expanded to a second Sunday service. The Sunday School dramatically expanded.
Pastor Myers drove Epiphany’s ministry forward. He led the congregation into its third building effort. This resulted in Hightman Hall. Epiphany grew to an average worship attendance of nearly 900. Two Sunday School sessions served 600 students each Sunday.
In 1957, J.H. & C.S. Odell rebuilt the existing organ. The cost was $6,800. Odell rebuilt the old chests. They cleaned and repaired existing pipes. New pipes were added. A new relay and console were installed.
The current status of the organ at Epiphany Lutheran Church is unknown. It once featured a Great Organ with 61 notes. The Swell Organ also had 61 notes. The Pedal Organ had 30 notes.
In 1970, Reverend John Yost, Jr. became Epiphany’s fourth pastor. He led the church through turbulent times. Epiphany reinvented its ministry several times. Pastor Yost brought the scriptures to life. He encouraged contemporary worship.
In 1995, Epiphany called Reverend Keith Hardy as its pastor. He led Epiphany through studies. He helped establish the Contemporary service.
In 2007, Reverend William Gohl, Jr. became pastor. He rebuilt traditions of excellence. These included worship and discipleship.
Today, Epiphany Lutheran Church continues its ministry. It strives for justice for all God’s children. It offers friendship and a sense of community. Epiphany connects deeply to God through worship and prayer. The story continues.