Haven of peace. That is what Prince of Peace Lutheran Church strives to be. It is a place where the Allied Gardens neighborhood of San Diego can find solace and community.
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church is part of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. This synod includes almost 2 million members. It also has nearly 6,000 congregations. Here at Prince of Peace, worship is central. Bible study and Sunday School offer learning and growth. These opportunities happen each Sunday. They also occur throughout the week. The community loves to gather for dinners at the church.
The church is led by Reverend Paul Willweber. He was born in Mission Hills, CA, in 1968. He was baptized at Chapel of the Cross Lutheran Church. Pastor Willweber received a degree in Communication. He graduated from Concordia College in Seward, NE, in 1991. Later, he earned a Master of Divinity. He graduated from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO, in 1995.
His first pastoral role was in Odessa, TX. He served as the assistant pastor of Redeemer Lutheran Church. In 1998, he was called to Prince of Peace. He has been serving as pastor here ever since.
Pastor Willweber married Sara Dodge in 1996. They have four children. Their son, Ryan, passed away in a car accident. Cory is studying to become a pastor. He attends Concordia Theological Seminary. Katy is a middle school math teacher. Sean is a student at San Diego State University.
Pastor Willweber enjoys music, reading, and movies. He also likes theology, language, and sports. He is a lifelong Laker fan. Plus, he is a dedicated Padre fan.
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church offers services. Sunday Divine Service is at 9:00 a.m.. Tuesday Matins is at 9:00 a.m. Special services occur during Advent and Lent. These take place on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. Communion is offered every Sunday and on festivals. The church uses both individual cups. The hymnal is Lutheran Service Book. The liturgy also follows the Lutheran Service Book.
The church also has a rich history. In the 1950s, it started as a mission church. The seven-acre site was purchased in 1956. This was done by the Central District of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. The first worship service was in 1959. It was held at Christ Dunberger Post. In November, the name Prince of Peace was chosen.
The first building was dedicated in 1961. It was a multipurpose facility. Later additions included a fellowship hall and Sunday School rooms. A bell tower was added in 1985. Major renovations were completed in 2005. These included a new entrance and updated facilities.
Prince of Peace Lutheran Church continues to serve its community. It is a beacon of faith and fellowship in Allied Gardens. The church’s mission is clear. Share Jesus and live His love. They strive to do this through discipleship. This happens both at home and in the community.