A History of All Saints

All Saints Lutheran Church was founded by families who were uncomfortable with the direction of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. The first worship service was held in the recital room of Engel Hall on August 22, 1976. Reverend James C. Couser was installed as pastor on October 17. The first annual All Saints Festival was observed on November 7th, 1976, when 35 people signed the All Saints Constitution as charter members.

Pastor Couser served All Saints from 1976 to 1987. Following a diligent search, Reverend James P. Melang became our pastor and served form 1988 to 1999. Pastor Leon Rosenthal was our third pastor, serving from May 2000 to May 2005. All three pastors were graduates of Seminex.

All Saints is currently being served by Pastor David B. Larson, interim pastor. We are taking part in the Bridgebuilder’s program, and will soon be starting the process to call a permanent pastor.

The present location became the church home at the facility’s dedication on January 18, 1981.

All Saints Lutheran Church has been an ELCA congregation since January 1, 1988. Members reflect both past Lutheran affiliation and other religious backgrounds.

A growing Sunday School program crowded the education classrooms. By 1991, expansion plans were underway. Dedication of the new addition on January 22, 1995, benefited Sunday School, youth, nursery and music programs. An elevator located in the expanded narthex allowed the handicapped access within the facility.

All Saints Lutheran Church is a caring, Christian community serving Southeast Lincoln. While the traditions are Lutheran, the congregation has been responsive to ideas of the members. Contrary to popular belief, saints are not perfect people. They are people who trust in Christ. Since we enjoy fellowship with all who trust in Christ and celebrate our calling in Him, we have the name “All Saints.”