The Lutheran Faith
If you are familiar with the name “Lutheran” within the Christian faith, we want to let you know that we are a congregation of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS). We believe that the Holy Bible is God’s written word, inspired by the Holy Spirit and inerrant in what it teaches, and has the final say on questions of teaching (or doctrine) and church practice. We also believe without reservation that the Augsburg Confession of 1530 and Martin Luther’s Small Catechism, along with the other confessional writings of the Lutheran church coming out of the Reformation, are faithful to the Holy Bible in what they teach and proclaim as Christian faith and truth. These writings also have doctrinal authority in our church under the Holy Bible.
Our History
1914 – There was no Lutheran congregation in what is now known as the Colorado River Valley.
1915 – 1943 – Two Pastors held a service on Good Friday with their families and a couple others in attendance. The first confirmation class was confirmed. Circuit pastors had to journey to the area by train, wagon, or by foot, depending on the condition of the roads. The services were initially held in private homes and later at the Antlers and Horn schoolhouses.
1943 – The first resident pastor was installed and held services at Glenwood Springs and Rifle, using the Methodist churches in both locations. Over the next decade several pastors served both congregations.
1950 – The first organizational meeting took place to name the church as Emmanuel Lutheran Church. Officers were installed.
1953 – Ground breaking ceremonies were held for a permanent House of Worship on Daniel Street in west Rifle.
1953 – On December 24th the first Christmas Eve Service and a Children’s Program was held. Ninety were in attendance.
1954 – 1989 Emmanuel existed as a mission congregation and was faithfully served by several pastors from Holy Cross in Glenwood Springs.
1989 – The first service was held in the new house of God on East 5th Street in Rifle on Christmas Eve.
1990 – Service of Dedication took place one month later.
1998 – A new addition to Emmanuel was completed which holds the fellowship hall, meeting and classrooms. This is where the preschool is located.
1999 – The commercial kitchen was completed and is used to this day for events. Emmanuel Lutheran Preschool began.
Read the full journey here.
EQUIP
LOVE
CONNECT
