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 Lutheran Learning Center was opened to serve the community of Smithville. On September 30, 2025, the GLLC was closed. While saddened by its closing, we give thanks to God for the blessings he so richly poured out on all who were taught here, and are confident that our gracious God will continue to proclaim His Word to His people so that, with all the saints, they may enjoy the eternal blessings promised to those who are His.

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. In 2027, Grace Lutheran Church will celebrate its 100th Anniversary. 

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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                         2010-2022

Rev. David Woelmer                       2023-present