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Our History

In  early 1934  Pastor A. Schormann began holding services in the Seaman's institute on Pender Street, Vancouver, and in his own home on 7th avenue. In 1935, worshippers gathered above a store on Fraser Street, before moving into an  Anglican Church, and then in a vacant church owned by St. George United Church. On June 4, 1936, the first church council was elected. By September 15, 1937, the congregation purchased the current church site for $2,250, and in 1938, the name Martin Luther Evangelical Lutheran Church was formally adopted. On September 28, 1947, a newly constructed church building was dedicated—a truly joyous day for the congregation! As the 1950s welcomed many German-speaking newcomers to Vancouver, the church continued to flourish.  English and German services  were held for much of the congregation's history.  The current education building was constructed in 1964, and  houses the church office and pastor's study. In 1983, a renovation brought beautiful stained-glass windows to life in our worship space. Throughout its history, Martin Luther Church has engaged in all aspects of ministry, from Sunday School and Confirmation to Choir and fellowship programs as well as the support of missions locally and internationally.

We express our heartfelt gratitude to God for our ancestors in faith, who laid the foundation of our place of worship. Their commitment and sacrifices have allowed us to gather and grow in our spiritual journey. We honour their legacy as we continue to nurture and cherish this sacred space.

Throughout the years, we have been served by pastors who have aspired to faithfully  proclaim the Gospel, and guide us through every season of life. 

Rev. A. Schormann (1934-1941)
Rev. P Mueller (1941-1949)
Rev. V.C. Rothenberger (1950-1956; 1974-1988)
Rev. E.J Krisch (1956-1968)
Rev. E.K.H Kroeger (1960-1962)
Rev. E.G Niebergall (1968-1974)
Rev. Curtis Aguirre (1988-1992)
Rev. J Schmode (1993-1995)
Rev. A. Manz (1995-2003)
Rev. S. Wagner (2004-2007)
Rev. N. Hopman (2012-2015)
Rev. M. Schmidt (2015-2023)
Since 1940, choirs have been an integral part of our worship experience, enriching our gatherings with harmonious melodies and uplifting voices.  Through every note sung, choirs continue to inspire and elevate our worship.
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