Devotion takes many forms but today we will explore a place of worship. Gloria Dei Lutheran Church offers a welcoming space for reflection. This church has a unique story. It reflects a coming together of different traditions. Gloria Dei’s history began in 1966. It was formed by the merging of two congregations. These were St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church and Salem Lutheran Church.
St. Matthew’s had Finnish roots. Salem Lutheran was Swedish. This merger reflected a broader movement. The Lutheran Church in America was a new national organization. This unity sparked a building program. It culminated in the dedication of Gloria Dei’s current sanctuary in 1970.
St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church had a rich history. In 1880 Pastor Alfred E. Backman arrived. He served Finnish congregations. A church was built on Quincy Hill. Later Rev. Dr. Juho K. Nikander arrived from Finland. In 1885 a new church was built. It was named St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church.
Salem Lutheran Church also had its beginnings. Around 1900 Swedish Lutherans formed their own congregation. They built a church at Michigan Street and Lincoln Drive. This church joined the Augustana Synod. It was named Salem Lutheran Church.
Gloria Dei shares a close connection. Its roots go back to the Suomi Synod. St. Matthew’s was considered the mother church. It maintained a close relationship with Finlandia University.
Gloria Dei offers more than Sunday services. There is children’s Sunday School. A lively Adult Bible Class is available. There is also a youth group. Other worship opportunities are announced throughout the year. Women’s and men’s Bible studies are also available.
Music is highly valued at Gloria Dei. The church strives to be a model congregation. It embraces the Lutheran heritage of singing the faith. The Lutheran Service Book is used. A beautiful pipe organ enhances worship. Members can join a choir.
Gloria Dei is affiliated with The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod. It is the oldest Lutheran church body in North America. It has millions of members in thousands of congregations.
Gloria Dei stands as a testament. It shows the power of unity and faith. It welcomes all to experience the glory of God. You can find Gloria Dei at 1087 W Country Club Lane. It sits on the corner of Nutmeg Street. Sunday worship is at 9:00 AM. Wednesday worship is at noon. Children’s Sunday School and Adult Bible Class are at 10:30 AM on Sundays.