All Saints’ at 50: Remembrance, rejoicing and rededication

 

 

By Ed Englund of All Saints’ Lutheran Church 

AUBURN — The year 1962 will be remembered in our nation’s history for some major events. Most notably perhaps was the Cuban Missile Crisis, bringing us to the brink of war. For Washington state folks, no one will forget the Seattle World’s Fair and the Space Needle, which for 50 years has served as the emblem of the Seattle skyline. And then there was the devastating Columbus Day Storm that struck the Pacific Northwest with 170 mph winds resulting in 46 deaths and major damage.

But 1962 was also the year that a handful of dedicated Lutherans and an inspired young pastor fulfilled their dreams for a new place of worship. All Saints’ Lutheran Church was born. In the past five decades, the church has emerged from its humble beginnings to become a major institution, standing majestically at its prominent location off Interstate 5 at the Exit 147 off-ramp. 

It originally was in a community grange hall. Old-timers nostalgically remember the old hall, which has long since been removed and replaced with a Walgreens. In 1966, the church home moved to a new-but-modest sanctuary built on the present site. Since that time there have been major additions, culminating in its present contemporary sanctuary, dedicated in 1993. 

Three major ceremonies are marking this 50-year milestone. First, was a “remembrance” on Oct. 6. It was an emotionally filled reunion of past and present members with nearly all former pastors on hand for a special program and luncheon. Retired Rev. Elvin Bjork, All Saints’ founding pastor, was among those present. A young minister in 1962, Pastor Bjork spoke of his door-to-door campaign seeking interested Christians to come join this exciting new adventure. During the remembrance event, all pastors told of fond memories from their respective eras. Some charter members were also were on hand, including several who are still active in the church.

The second event was a “rejoicing,” which took place on Reformation Sunday, Oct. 28. Bishop Robert D. Hofstad was the honored guest and delivered an uplifting sermon. Afterward, a German potluck was provided in honor of Martin Luther.

Finally, on Dec. 2, the church celebrated a “rededication.” In addition to being the first Sunday of Advent, is was exactly on that day 50 years ago that All Saints’ was officially commissioned under a charter of the Lutheran Church of America. The Rev. Jan Otto led, followed by a social gathering with refreshments.

Pictured top to bottom: The original grange, and the present inside and outside of All Saints' Lutheran Church of Auburn, turning 50