Grace Lutheran

33 S. 11th Street

History: Grace Lutheran was first formed as a Sunday School, or Mission School, from Trinity Lutheran, and they first started meeting in 1868 at a schoolhouse on 9th and Spruce. In 1877, their current property was bought and a chapel was built. While their congregation was meeting for many years prior, the official date of Grace’s incorporation is 1888. By 1890 their attendance had increased greatly, so they built the building we see today. There was a parsonage next to the church building that was torn down to make room for an addition that was built in 1997. Grace Lutheran is planning to merge with three other Lutheran congregations in the upcoming months.

Congregation/space: This building was formed in 16th Century French Gothic style. In addition to its many classrooms, library, large kitchen and spacious fellowship hall, the building has an impressive sanctuary space, made to seat 500 people. A large balcony with pointed arches surrounds three of the four walls in the space, supported by ornate composite-style columns. Not typical of Lutheran churches, Grace has a Christ the King Cross behind their altar; this one was carved in Italy and hangs above another intricately-carved wood piece depicting The Last Supper. All parts of the building are handicap accessible.

Programs: Grace Lutheran has participated in a bookbag program for many years, where they give nearly 700 bookbags to students in Reading. During this event, they also have clothes or toys available, and serve a meal to those families in need. They hope to bring their experience with this program to their new merged congregation, and to continue giving to the community in this way and others.