CHURCH HISTORY \ THROUGH THE YEARS

Background: The Rev. John E. Berger came to Newton Falls in July 1955 to begin development of a Lutheran mission. The first church service was in August in the auditorium of Newton Falls Community Center.
Organization: The formal organization of the church was Dec. 18, 1955, when 95 members signeding the charter. The Rev. Mr. Berger was pastor until September 1961. In 1958, the congregation bought the first church building, the former Congregational Church.
Pastors: The Rev. Howard Westin served from July 1962-September 1965 and during his service a new church building was built at the current location, 4920 Fairport Road. Other ministers were the Rev. Robert Binkley, 1966-70; the Rev. Hollis Bishop, 1970-75; the Rev. David Root, 1975-77; the Rev. Kenneth Hilston, 1977-80; the Rev. Patricia Geiseman, 1980-88; the Rev. Bryan Dadlow, 1988-95; and the Rev. Lisa Hayes, 1996-2002. Interim pastors were the Rev. Dale Deames, the Rev. Dr. Robert Cline and currently, the Rev. Ted Schaffer.