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Faith Lutheran Church marks its 75th anniversary in Arlington Heights

Faith Lutheran Church was founded Feb. 9, 1947, and was consecrated by a selection of God's appointed men at a home meeting. The men and women gathered to address the increasing diversified need that faced the growing community of the "City of Good Neighbors." They were becoming potential communicant members that met in the Field House of Recreation Park on Feb. 16, 1947, and there the organization of the church was established.

Faith in God was the undertaking value of this group of believers. Through divine inspiration, they all agreed to name this new church Faith Lutheran Church. The church was organized as a Lutheran Mission in the English District of the Missouri Synod (LCMS).

After meeting for two and a half years in the Field House, the church building was dedicated in September of 1949, at 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, where it continues and exists today. In June 1960, an education wing was added as an outreach to the community and was dedicated. Then in January 1966, the church added an enlargement addition to the sanctuary for dedication.

God sent the congregation its first pastor, the Rev. Edgar H. Behrens, who served as spiritual leader until 1969. Following Rev. Behrens, Faith has been served by seven spiritual leaders as pastors to this 75-year-old congregation. Starting with Rev. Edgar H. Behrens, 1947-1969; Rev. Vernon R. Schreiber, 1969-1973; Rev. William J. Hughes, 1974-1976; Rev. C. David Stuckmeyer, 1977-2000; Rev. William Majer, 1980-2005; Rev. Thomas Sanders, 2004-2020; Rev. Brad Urlaub, 2014-2016; and Rev. Michael A. Johnson, Sr., July 26, 2020-present.

Other milestones in Faith's history include: In 1972, celebrating 25 years; in 1997, celebrating 50 years; in September 2013, opening of Lambs of Faith Early Childhood Center, and the 75th Anniversary Celebration, in September 2022.

Faith is currently hosting a facilitated peer group called "Rainbows For All Children," dedicated to providing support for all youth who are having to navigate life from grief and healing from loss. Faith ministry provides adult support as well.

Faith partners with Journeys | The Road Home/PADS, providing and hosting monthly Community Suppers through the summer. In August it also hosts "Ready For School" backpack distribution for residents in Districts 25 and 59. Faith also partners with area communities and education venues providing support for special projects, trips and other "dare to be different" community expressions.

Faith ministry includes the Lutheran Women's Missionary League (LWML)/Women of Faith; a Men's bowling league active for 64 years at Beverly Lanes; a Prayer Shawl group meets monthly knitting/crocheting and praying over their stitches for whoever the recipients may be; and the church is developing a food pantry for those in need and for those who just want a helping hand. Weekly worship includes Faith choir, Faith hand bell choir and inspirational messages that encourages faith walking with the Lord.

The biblical theme for Faith Lutheran Church's 75th Anniversary is from Hebrews 12:2, "Let us fix our eyes on Jesus."

Faith Luthern Church, 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, is pictured in 1949. Courtesy of Faith Luthera Church
Faith Lutheran Church, as the building stands today at 431 S. Arlington Heights Road, in Arlington Heights. Courtesy of Faith Luthera Church
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