In 1920, the Augustana Synod (then the Swedish branch of the Lutheran Church) established a congregation in Palo Alto, California, as a mission to Swedish immigrants living in the area. By 1925, the congregation was able to build a church and fellowship hall on the corner of Homer Avenue and Webster Street.
The names of the original members were all recognizably Swedish: Carlson, Johnson, Swanson, Trodson, Pearson. Now our congregation includes names from many different cultures: Haletky, Hariguchi, Barich, Leong and many more. We welcome people of all cultural and religious backgrounds, races, and gender orientations.
Our congregation has roots in Lutheran faith traditions, but we express and discuss a variety of beliefs as well as contemporary issues. Our style of worship is based on the traditional ecumenical and Lutheran liturgies with frequent variations and forays into folk and comtemporary modes. Excellence in music is always a focus.
The Sunday School for children was the first organization formed within the congregation. Since then many educational, fellowship, and service opportunities for all ages have evolved. We enjoy multi-generational relationships.
The sacraments, baptism and communion – which is celebrated every Sunday – unite us across generations into the body of Christ.