Responding to God's grace through faith, we will build Spirit-led relationships meet neighbors' needs,
and advocate for justice that all might fully experience the love of Christ.

When Wilmette Lutheran Church organized 88 years ago, April 17, 1921, with 39 charter members, the intersection of Seventh and Greenleaf was a bustling corner on the streetcar line from Evanston and Chicago. Through the 1950's the ministry was strong, growing and active.

The building has retained its strength and beauty, and the neighborhood has preserved its charm. But the streetcar stopped coming by in 1955 and the corner and the church are both very quiet now.

On May 24, Ascension Sunday, in the face of increasing age, and declining energy, mobility, attendance and finances, the congregation voted unanimously to celebrate God's grace on September 13 and disband October 4, 2009, bequeathing its assets to other ministries.

Upon the sale of the property (to another faith community, we hope, and soon!), the assets will be transferred to the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Chicago, the Holy Land, and Southern Africa, along with the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago and Lutheran Social Services of Illinois. Interfaith Action Council and Lutheran Campus Ministries, both of Evanston, and Howard Area Community Center will receive the Endowment Fund, as will Bethel New Life and Holy Family School both of Chicago, and Bethania Kids, India. The holy things, furniture, and "stuff" that have supported the ministry were donated and are already in use at 30 other congregations, ministries, and social service agencies throughout Chicagoland.

The congregation was led by a strong and prayerful council. Together they worshipped, studied and discerned; together they grieved deeply and celebrated fully. The chosen course was a difficult one, and they completed the process well and faithfully.

It has been a blessing to serve as their pastor. I pray that the Holy Spirit will lead them to other congregations and that they will be warmly welcomed. For we know that even as they said goodbye to their church and church family, God never says goodbye, not to any of us. God always says hello - hello beloved sisters and brothers in Christ!