Did you know that Pilgrim Lutheran Church stands as the only church on Wilshire Boulevard in Santa Monica? This contrasts with the high concentrations of religious structures in Wilshire Center and Westwood. Pilgrim Lutheran Church’s story began well before its official birth date of May 14, 1914. The desire for a permanent Lutheran Church in Santa Monica existed as far back as 1909.
In 1912, the Los Angeles Pastoral Conference sought Rev. Theodore Haeuser’s help. He held services in the area twice a month. A pivotal moment arrived in 1913. Walter Troeger, a young man from Concordia Seminary’s graduating class, was called to Santa Monica.
Rev. Troeger delivered his first sermon on October 5, 1913. On May 14, 1914, twenty-two families pledged their support. This marked the official organization of Pilgrim Lutheran Church. Rev. Troeger noted their humble beginnings. Their total assets included a Bible, hymnals, and a communion set.
The first permanent church was completed in 1919. It still stands on the corner of 14th Street and Arizona Avenue. As the congregation grew, a new building became necessary. Between 1945 and 1951, five building lots were purchased at 18th and Wilshire. Ground broke in June 1952. The new church was dedicated on June 14, 1953.
Rev. Troeger retired in 1960. He faithfully served Pilgrim Lutheran Church for over 46 years. His efforts set an example for everyone. Rev. I.F. Hodde served as interim pastor. Then, Rev. Victor Neemeyer was called and served Pilgrim until his death in 1981. Rev. Neemeyer was a Circuit Counselor and a frequent guest speaker on “The Lutheran Hour.”
In 1982, Rev. Kenneth Molnar was installed. Rev. Molnar also served on the District Mission Board. In 1987, he was called to a mission in Rancho California. Rev. Harry Miller, though officially retired, stepped in as interim pastor in 1985.
September 21, 1988, marked 75 years since Rev. Troeger’s installation. On that day, Dr. Albrecht became Pilgrim’s fourth pastor. He came from Lutheran Television. There, he produced “This is the Life” and numerous specials.
A major earthquake in January 1994 caused extensive damage to the sanctuary of Pilgrim Lutheran Church. For over a year and a half, services were held in the gymnasium. The church was repaired, strengthened, and rededicated in November 1995. The altar is crafted from Sicilian marble and mahogany. The furniture and pews are also mahogany.
In June 2001, Rev. Nathan Kilian replaced the retiring Dr. Ardon Albrecht. He served until the Fall of 2021. During a pastoral vacancy, Rev. John Arthur Nunes served part-time starting in March 2022. He accepted the call to serve as Pilgrim’s sixth pastor on September 11, 2022, until May of 2024. In June 2024 Pilgrim Lutheran Church started the search for a new pastor.
The church building itself has Gothic Revival touches. It is made of brick and poured concrete. Pilgrim Lutheran Church also partners with Pacifica Christian High School. They work together to encourage human flourishing in Santa Monica. Look for future events co-hosted by Pacifica and Pilgrim Lutheran Church.