All Saints Lutheran Church was founded by families who were
uncomfortable with the direction of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.
The first worship service was held in the recital room of Engel Hall on
August 22, 1976. Reverend James C. Couser was installed as pastor on
October 17. The first annual All Saints Festival was observed on
November 7th, 1976, when 35 people signed the All Saints Constitution
as charter members.
Pastor
Couser served All Saints from 1976 to 1987. Following a diligent
search, Reverend James P. Melang became our pastor and served from 1988
to 1999. Pastor Leon Rosenthal was our third pastor, serving from May
2000 to May 2005. All three pastors were graduates of Seminex.
All Saints is currently being served by Pastor David B. Larson,
interim pastor. We are taking part in the Bridgebuilder’s program, and
will soon be starting the process to call a permanent pastor.
The present location became the church home at the facility’s dedication on January 18, 1981.
All Saints Lutheran Church has been an ELCA congregation since
January 1, 1988. Members reflect both past Lutheran affiliation and
other religious backgrounds.
A growing Sunday School program crowded the education
classrooms. By 1991, expansion plans were underway. Dedication of the
new addition on January 22, 1995, benefited Sunday School, youth,
nursery and music programs. An elevator located in the expanded narthex
allowed the handicapped access within the facility.
All Saints Lutheran Church is a caring, Christian community
serving Southeast Lincoln. While the traditions are Lutheran, the
congregation has been responsive to ideas of the members. Contrary to
popular belief, saints are not perfect people. They are people who
trust in Christ. Since we enjoy fellowship with all who trust in Christ
and celebrate our calling in Him, we have the name “All Saints.”