Our History

Immanuel dates back to the summer of 1908. A number of families from Trinity Lutheran Church who lived in the Sellwood area appealed to their pastor, Dr. J. Rimbach, to use his influence to get a church started in the area. The first service was held on July 12, 1908 in a vacant store building.

The congregation was organized and four men signed the constitution, they were John Helm, William Hering, George Hoehner and Christian Kurtz. They chose the name Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Early in 1909, the congregation purchased a building site at S.E. 15th and Lambert Street. On April 18, 1909, the cornerstone of the first church was laid and the church was formally dedicated to the glory and service of the Triune God. The congregation numbered about 50 communicant members and about 100 baptized members.

On July 8, 1909, Immanuel congregation was received into membership of the Lutheran Church — Missouri Synod at the District Convention in Tacoma, Washington. Also in that year, Rev. Ebeling organized a Christian Day School and was also its teacher. The school closed in 1927.

The congregation increased over the years and on November 5, 1950, ground was broken for the building of the present church and parish hall. On July 1, 1951, the cornerstone was laid. When the builder had completed the outside of the building, the congregation took over and did all the finish work. The church was completed and dedicated on March 27, 1955.

In 1987, the decision was made to expand the facility and build a fellowship hall. It was built on the corner of SE 15th and Bidwell Street. It was completed and dedicated during the summer of 1988. The Hall is a gathering place for the Sellwood community.

In 2008, the congregation celebrated its 100th anniversary with events throughout the year.

View historic photos of Immanual Lutheran Church »

Soli Deo Gloria!

(Glory to God Alone)