Imagine stepping back in time to 1923. That was when Messiah Lutheran Church first began its mission in Houston. It all started with Rev. Hobart Meyer who became the church’s first pastor. Officially, Messiah Lutheran Church was organized on December 9, 1923.
Messiah Lutheran Church has a rich history. It has evolved alongside its surrounding neighborhood. Once surrounded by pasture land and single-family homes, the area is now full of townhouses, restaurants, and businesses. Messiah Lutheran Church has embraced these changes. The church sees itself as a vital part of the Rice Military Neighborhood. This neighborhood is located in the Washington-Heights Corridor west of downtown Houston.
Education has always been important to Messiah Lutheran Church. In 1930, Messiah Christian Day School opened. Carl T. Schoessow was the first teacher and principal. The school was housed in a remodeled five-room building. In 1951, a new school and parish hall were dedicated. Messiah Lutheran Church ran an elementary school until 1970. Then, it partnered with Trinity downtown to form the Trinity-Messiah Lutheran School. This partnership lasted until 2002.
Recognizing the need for early childhood care, Messiah Lutheran Early Childhood Center opened in 1982. Pastor James Tonn was instrumental in its creation. Interestingly, Stacey Cook Viviano was one of the first children enrolled. Now, she is the Center’s director. The Center provides Christian-based child care for children aged two months through pre-kindergarten.
Messiah Lutheran Church is deeply rooted in its faith. It aims to spread the message of God’s love and salvation. The church welcomes Christians and those seeking to connect with Christianity. They strive to be a friendly community. They invite everyone to join them in worship and service to God.
Under the leadership of Rev. Timothy Engel, installed in 2016, Messiah Lutheran Church continues to embrace its neighborhood. The church extends the unconditional love of Jesus Christ to all. Messiah Lutheran Church is committed to loving its neighbors. This means caring for people’s physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Messiah Lutheran Church operates with four guiding principles: Equip, Embrace, Enrich, and Embolden. The church equips families through its Early Childhood Center and Christian Education ministries. It embraces those in need through outreach programs, including the Comfort Dog Ministry. It enriches lives with the power of God’s Word through worship. Finally, it emboldens members to follow Jesus through acts of compassion.
Today, Messiah Lutheran Church stands as a testament to faith. It is a beacon of hope in the heart of Houston. Its story is one of service, education, and unwavering commitment to its community. As you stand here, remember the countless lives touched by this church. Consider the enduring impact of its mission.