A cornerstone of faith stands before you. This is St James Lutheran Church in Imperial Beach. Its story begins not with grand cathedrals but a humble start. In 1962 Rev Edward Hammer led the first service. Ninety worshippers gathered then in Lake Bluff Jr High School. Imagine the scene. Simple pews. Perhaps a borrowed organ. The spirit of community undeniable.
St James wasn’t built overnight. The church constitution was adopted in 1963. That same year the Lutheran Church Women organized. The first confirmation class followed in April. Growth was steady and sure. The first church building was completed in 1965. It marked a significant milestone.
More pastors came. Edward Livingston took the reins in 1966. Nine years later G Anton “Tony” Danielson arrived. Membership boomed. By 1979 it surpassed 500. An expansion was needed. A new educational wing was dedicated in 1980. This added vital space for learning and fellowship.
The present sanctuary a testament to that growth followed in 1990. A beautiful 24 rank tracker pipe organ by Robert Sipe was installed in 1992. Its majestic sound fills the church. The Memorial Garden dedicated in 1999 offers a peaceful space.
Pastor Danielson retired in 2000. His 25 years of service left an enduring legacy. Richard E Holmer became senior pastor in 2001. The church continued to thrive. In 2018 a mortgage burning ceremony signified financial freedom. This was a major achievement for the congregation.
Pastor Holmer guided St James through the pandemic. He retired in 2021. Mark Sundberg served as interim pastor. In November 2022 Amy Gillespie became the new senior pastor. She continues to guide the congregation. Today St James boasts 360 baptized members. A testament to enduring faith and community. This is St James Lutheran Church. A beacon of hope. A vibrant community. A cornerstone of Imperial Beach.