Holy Cross Lutheran Church

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Tucked away in Germantown, Holy Cross Lutheran Church has a story to tell. A story of faith, dedication, and a commitment to community. It all began in 1948, when Pastor William A. Drews, saw a need for a Lutheran presence in North Philadelphia. He called upon Pastor Othneill Thomas to serve as a missionary. By 1951, the focus narrowed to Germantown. A small, devoted group began meeting in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Allen B. Rawlins, dreaming of a church of their own. Their dream took a significant step forward in December 1951. The Eastern District of the Lutheran Church purchased a property at Cliveden and Magnolia Street. Just a few months later, in May 1952, Holy Cross Lutheran Church held its first service of consecration. It wasn’t in a grand cathedral, but in a house on the newly acquired property. The congregation continued to grow. In September 1952, Holy Cross Lutheran Church welcomed its first confirmation class. A constitution was adopted in 1954, formally organizing the congregation and uniting it with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. Holy Cross Lutheran Church aimed to embody the teachings of Jesus. They strived for justice like the Old Testament Prophets. They sought truth like science, beauty like art, intimacy like a home, and to be as essential as the air we breathe. Their mission, as stated in Matthew 28:18-20, is to build up the Body of Christ by loving and serving one another. They strive to witness and carry out the “Great Commission.” Today, Holy Cross Lutheran Church continues its mission. They invite everyone to worship, hear God’s word, sing praises, and partake in the holy sacrament.

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