Grace Lutheran Church marked 150 years in Mobile in 2017, tracing its roots to a German Lutheran pastor and a small group of German immigrants who established the congregation in 1867.
Pastor Wayne Miller said the church was the first and oldest Lutheran congregation in Alabama. Its original location was on St. Francis Street downtown; the congregation later moved to Government Street in Midtown.
Anniversary plans changed after Hurricane Nate
The congregation planned a worship service and historical marker as part of the anniversary. A dinner postponed because of Hurricane Nate was ultimately canceled, and those who planned to attend were encouraged to direct funds toward disaster relief and the church’s community ministry.
Continuing community role
Miller described the church’s role as building relationships, offering service and worship, and staying connected with people across generations. This account records the congregation’s 2017 anniversary and historic background.