Hear the echoes of unity. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church stands as a testament to faith and fellowship. It represents a coming together of different traditions.
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church was established in 1966. This was a merger of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church and Salem Lutheran Church. St. Matthew’s was Finnish Lutheran and Salem was Swedish Lutheran.
Let’s delve into the roots of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church. In 1880, Pastor Alfred E. Backman arrived. He was the first clergyman from the Church of Finland. He served the new congregations. A church was built on Quincy Hill during the following decade.
The Rev. Dr. Juho K. Nikander arrived from Finland in 1885. A new church was constructed at the junction of Reservation and White Streets. This church still stands today. It carries the name St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church.
Now, let’s turn our attention to Salem Lutheran Church. Around 1900, the Swedish Lutherans organized a separate congregation. Soon after, they built a church. It was on the corner of Michigan Street and Lincoln Drive. This church also still stands. The Swedish church became part of the Augustana Synod. It was named Salem Lutheran Church.
The merger of Salem and St. Matthew’s churches was significant. It coincided with the emergence of the Lutheran Church in America. The desire to unite within a new structure spurred a major building program. This culminated in 1970. The current sanctuary was dedicated and given the name Gloria Dei.
Gloria Dei shares a close history with Finlandia University. It has roots going back to the Suomi Synod. St. Matthew’s was considered the “mother church” of Suomi College. Gloria Dei continues to maintain a close relationship with the university.
When you visit Gloria Dei, you will experience community. You will find people who are loved, forgiven and redeemed by Jesus. God places people in our lives to show His love and acceptance. People mattered to Jesus. They matter to this church. Gloria Dei values developing intentional relationships. These relationships extend into the community and the world.
Gloria Dei believes that God gives spiritual gifts to each of us. We can serve others for His Kingdom purpose. This happens within and beyond Gloria Dei. Members live out these gifts every day. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church is more than just a building. It is a vibrant community. It is a place where faith and fellowship thrive. Remember Gloria Dei Lutheran Church as a beacon. It shines with love, acceptance and service.