Our History
In 1890 eleven families joined in faith to strengthen their belief in God and their deep-felt convictions in the life and death of our Lord. They joined in fellowship and communion to form Thief River Falls Scandinavian Evangelical Lutheran Church. Worshiping in a store front at Horace Avenue and 2nd Street, the congregation grew and evolved until it became Zion as we know it at 505 N Main Avenue, Thief River Falls, a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
Following and encouraged by the saints who have gone before us, Zion has continued to walk in faith and venture out upon the promises of God. Inscribed above the front doors of Zion are the words, “For Jehovah Hath Built up Zion.” Zion is God’s church. We are God’s people.
Timeline
1890 – Organized Thief River Falls Scandinavian Evangelical Lutheran Congregation
1900 – Purchased land at Horace Avenue and 2nd Street and moved store front onto a stone foundation
1903 – Reincorporated under name Zion Lutheran Church of Thief River Falls
1945 – Established building and purchased land at 5th Street and Main Avenue North
1949 – Moved into basement of new church
1950 – Worshiped in new sanctuary for first time on Christmas Day
1979 – Broke ground for new education wing on north side of church
1982 – Moved into 2nd floor offices and education wing
1988 – Merged with the ELC and LCA churches to become member of the ELCA church
1999 – Renovated the sanctuary and installed chancel sculpture
2008 – Moved offices to main floor on north side of church
2009 – Built porticos at north parking lot entrances
