A Brief History of

Grace Lutheran Church

Grace Lutheran Church in Smithville, Texas was officially organized on March 13, 1927. The opening service was held on the second floor of the old City Hall building with 7 communicant members and 13 baptized members in attendance.

The first Bible class began in July 1929 and in September of the same year work began on the new church building. The completed chapel was dedicated on April 27, 1930. Over the years the chapel was expanded and renovated as the congregation grew. During this time the congregation also purchased additional property as needed. In the fall of 1984 construction was started on a new church building. The new church was dedicated on August 4, 1985 and is still being used today.

On August 17, 1992 Grace Learning Center was opened to serve the community of Smithville. The center has 50 children enrolled.

The congregation has Bible Study and fellowship opportunities for all ages, including Mid-Week classes, Youth Group, Sunday School, Adult Bible classes, Lutheran Women's Missionary League and Lutheran Laymen's League.

In 2002 the Learning Center celebrated its 10th year of operation and the congregation observed its 75th Anniversary with a Celebration Worship Service and dinner.

Rev. Robert G. Lange                 1926-1927

Rev. O.C. Schreiner                    1928-1939

Rev. Henry C. Nickel                    1940-1943

Rev. J.W. Jackson                        1945-1949

Rev. H.L. Wiederaenders             1950-1958

Rev. A. Michalk                           1959-1962

Rev. Ewald Recks                        1962-1967

Rev. Earl A. Bielefeld                  1967-1968

Rev. Edwin F. Lange                    1969-1972

Rev. LaVerne J. Fitch                   1972-1983

Rev. William H. Usher                   1983-1985

Rev. Alfred E. Gallmeier               1985-1998

Rev. James M. Richardson            1999-2007

Rev. Timothy Appel                       2010-Present