Once, St. John’s and St. Luke’s were separate entities. Now, they stand as one: St. John’s–St. Luke’s Evangelical Church. This church has a rich history rooted deep in Detroit’s past.
St. John’s is Detroit’s oldest German Protestant church. It was founded in 1833. Rev. Friedrich Schmid established it. He was sent by the Evangelical Mission Society of Basel, Switzerland.
The first worship service occurred in John Hais’ carpenter shop on August 18, 1833. Pastor Schmid served the congregation until July 1836. German was the exclusive language for worship until 1938. St. John’s was the base. Twelve other German Protestant churches in the city were formed from it.
St. Luke Evangelical Church was organized in 1891. St. John’s and St. Luke’s merged in 1969. This union created the St. John’s–St. Luke’s Evangelical Church we see today.
Look at the architecture. The church was originally constructed in 1874. Julius Hess designed it. The facade includes a large tower on one side. A smaller tower is on the other side. They flank the entranceway. A large lancet window dominates the facade. A gabled vestibule fronts the gabled entrance.
Note the exterior. It has been extensively altered from its original appearance. The structure is brick. However in 1915 the exterior was completely covered in Formstone. Formstone is a cast concrete. It was made to resemble limestone.
Step inside. The interior is High Victorian Gothic in design. It’s painted white and gold. Elaborate Gothic woodwork adorns the space. The lighting system is historically significant. The church features a Votteler organ.
The St. John’s–St. Luke’s Evangelical Church is located at 2120 Russell Street in Detroit. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on April 22, 1982. It’s a testament to Detroit’s diverse religious heritage. It stands as a symbol of faith and community. It represents a blend of German roots and American spirit.
Consider the journey of this church. From a carpenter’s shop to a grand structure. From separate congregations to a united force. St. John’s–St. Luke’s Evangelical Church has stood the test of time. It continues to serve its community.