Emmanuel's History

Discover Emmanuel Lutheran Church's inspiring journey in Rochester, where our call is cross centered. Our core values are Christ Centered, Mission Driven, Traditionally Grounded and Congregationally Focused. 

Since our inception in 2011, we have grown from a small interest meeting to a thriving congregation committed to moving forward in faith by living out Christ's Great Commission to go and make disciples. Our story began with passionate Bible study sessions and the formation of a dedicated Steering Committee. Through faith and perseverance, we secured a worship space and adopted a constitution, marking our commitment to the North American Lutheran Church (NALC). We've celebrated baptisms, initiated educational programs, and hosted community events that focus our core values.

Emmanuel Lutheran Church is more than a place of worship; it's a family. We are committed to hearing God's word and following scripture. From acquiring land for future growth to constructing our permanent church building, each step forward reflects our dedication to expanding our reach and strengthening our mission. 

Come explore Emmanuel Lutheran Church and discover how you can be a part of something meaningful—where every member plays a vital role in our shared mission to the Lord's Great Commission. ​

  • 2025: March - Moved to our permanent location at 1965 Emmanuel Drive NW, Rochester, June - Church Consecration & Dedication
  • 2024: Groundbreaking and Land Blessing Ceremony at 'Emmanuel North'. Pastor Khrystle installed as Emmanuel's 2nd Pastor.
  • 2023: Continued planning for Emmanuel's future church building; actively participating in the NALC online confirmation course. 
  • 2022: Started and finished the first building at 'Emmanuel North'; held Easter Service on the land for the first time; began active call process. 
  • 2021: Hosted Worship Celebration of Life (SOHL) and Virtual Baby Shower in support of New Life Family Services; Lenten collection for Salvation Army Food Pantry; In-Home Bible Reading on Easter Monday.
  • 2020: Transitioned to virtual Worship Services due to COVID-19; Upgraded Website features; Resumed in-person worship with safety measures; SEMAC Mission Trip to Dayton, Ohio; Virtual reading of the entire New Testament on Easter Monday; Produced Emmanuel Picture Directory; Dedicated church land with a picnic; Virtual Children's Christmas Nativity.
  • 2019: Purchase of 4.9 acres of land on December 27.
  • 2018: Third annual public reading of the entire New Testament; Launch of "Building for the Future" fund appeal; Dinners for 8; Dinner in June.
  • 2017: Celebration of Emmanuel's Fifth Birthday; Offering received for a new NALC church plant.
  • 2015: Lenten Series on Holy Christian Baptism; Gift of baptismal stand and bowl; First funeral.
  • 2014: Recognition of High School Graduates and Quilt Blessing; Emmanuel Church Picnic; Use of ReClaim Hymnals; Weekly Saturday School began; Gift and use of Baptismal Cloths with Emmanuel Logo; Gift and use of Advent/Christmas Wreath; First Annual Meeting.
  • 2013: Pastor David Steffenson's acceptance of call and installation; Weekly Men's Bible Study Breakfast began; First Confirmation Class; First Thanksgiving Eve Worship & Pie Social; Introduction of new liturgy; First Twelve Days of Christmas Bell Ringing Service; Women's Study began; Emmanuel's first baptism.
  • 2012: First Service of Worship; Lease signed for Oasis Church; Steering Committee formed; Rev. Dr. Gemechis Buba spoke; Constitution adopted; Became a mission congregation of NALC; First website launched.
  • 2011: Interest meeting for forming a new NALC mission congregation; Bible Study sessions at Covenant Church.