As we previously reported, Glendale Lutheran Church may be closing soon, with a final public worship/celebration scheduled for Sunday, April 23, 2023.
However, Glendale Lutheran School will not be closing, according to officials.
Church leadership has decided to sell the property, which was first opened in July, 1944 and includes what may be one of the largest pipe organs in a church on the west coast.
Pastor Jim Kruse emailed us the following statement that may clarify the conversations church officials are having, as well as decisions made by congregational leadership:
“Glendale Lutheran Church is a member congregation of the Northwest Washington Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). The Church has been working with the Synod on a process that began two years ago to discern the future of the Church.
“While the Church recently made the preliminary decision to work toward closure sometime in the next two years, that decision has not yet been finalized.
“Yes, Glendale Lutheran Church has decided to conclude its public worship ministry on April 23rd.
“However, some of its ministries are continuing and its doors are not closing. The campus houses a vibrant elementary school ministry, provides the worship center for four other congregations, and regularly hosts community events in its worship hall and school all-purpose room.
“The Church and Synod are continuing to explore ways to preserve this campus and its occupants as a vital community resource.”
Thanks again,
Pastor Jim Kruse
Transition Pastor, Glendale Lutheran Church