History of St. John's Lutheran Church
LaPorte, LaPorte County, Indiana, USA

Church Office - 219-362-3726     

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." - Matthew 28:19-20

A Brief History of St. John's Ev. Lutheran Church, La Porte, IN
from Sunday, July 19, 1857 to present

(For the complete official version of St. John's history written by the St. John's  archivists go to St. John's Complete History. This version is researched/edited by St. John's Web servant.) (Last update 6/27/08)

St. John's Evangelical Lutheran Church was founded on the 6th Sunday after Trinity, 7th Sunday after Pentecost, July 19, 1857, with 14 voting members. Three were elected as elders - Carl Backhaus, Fred Steigly, and Conrad Popp. Conrad Popp also was to serve as treasurer. Candidate Fred R. Tramm was chairman. A week later the membership increased by six. The pastor's salary was $200 per year, by August 1863 it was raised to $300.

In one of the first meetings of the voters, the question was brought up whether ladies could be accepted as members. There seemed to be no opposition to the idea. However, according to the records, only about three availed themselves of the opportunity within the first ten years after the founding of the congregation.

Soon after its founding the Civil War began. Searching the records for any mention of the war, we found a request by the government in 1861 for prayers for the country. There were no records of casualties.

1857, July 19 - The organization of St. John's Church as "A Christian Congregation of the Lutheran Confessions." Mr. Frederick Reinhold Tramm, a candidate of Theology, was the chairman.  14 families from Germany settled in La Porte and  Rev. H. Wunder of Chicago agreed to give them sermons in German.

1857, July 26 -Candidate F. Reinhold Tramm was elected pastor. The name became the Evangelical Lutheran St. John's Congregation. (The original official name of this church (translated from German, St. Johannes) is St. John's German Evangelical  Lutheran Church of La Porte, Indiana.)

1857, September - Opening of first Day School at 308 "C" Street.  The Church services were first held in the schoolhouse and soon after they bought a small church.

1859,  February - Fifteen feet were added to the Day School.

1860, September 3 - Resolved to affiliate with "Evangelical Lutheran Synod of Missouri, Ohio and other States."

1863 - February 26 - New brick church erected, 45 feet by 100 feet, with a steeple 125 feet high, on "A" street.  A pipe organ with 18 stops was built by Pfeffer of St. Louis at a cost of $1700.  June 1 - Mr. E. Emmerich of Darmstadt, Ill. called as first Parochial School Teacher for St. John's Day School.

1864 - February 22 - Dedication of the new church building at "A" & "3rd" Streets.

1867 - Rev. F. R. Tramm accepted call to pastorate in Michigan. July 10 - Rev. G. Kuechle installed as pastor. July 10 - Mr. Julius Siegert was inducted as teacher of school.

1869 - Death of Teacher Henry Hieronymous. June - Teacher Christ Schmalzriedt succeeded Mr. Hieronymous.

1871 - March - Mr. Ernest Fickweiler accepted call, adding a third teacher to St. John's Lutheran School for the 260 students.

1872 - Rev. G. Kuechle called to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he remained until his death. Mr. Fred Lindemann, a theological student from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO., assisted in pastoral duties.  At that time there were 190 families in the congregation.

1873 - February 7 - Rev. Joseph F. Niethammer became pastor. A new school building was erected around this time, next to the Church, though the exact date is not recorded.

1886 - November - Church building enlarged at cost of $7,340.54.

1888 - January - Louis Wuellner installed as a fourth School Teacher.

1890 - January - Pastor Niethammer reported that St. John's numbered 1,750 souls, including 1,130 communicant and 264 voting members. There were 4 teachers and 327 pupils in the Day School. May 7 - Death of Rev. Joseph F. Niethammer. August 10 - Rev. George Link, Jr. called as successor to Pastor Niethammer.

1892 - Rev. F. Reinhold Tramm returned to St. John's as assistant to the Pastor.

1893 - April 9 - Resolved to build a new school on the old site.

1897- A small monthly parish paper was begun.

1901 - April 26 - Rev. George Link, Sr., father of the local pastor, was called as assistant to his ailing son. October 4 - Rev. George Link, Jr. resigned his office due to bad health.

1903 - October 25 a call was extended to Rev. Paul Eickstaedt. October 26 - Death of Rev. Frederick Reinhold Tramm, first pastor of the church. December 13 - Pastor Paul Eickstaedt was installed by Rev. W. H. T. Dau.

1904 - In March, a paragraph in the church constitution limiting the official preaching of the pastor to the German language was eliminated. In July two vacancies in the teaching force were filled by Charles H. Meier and Charles Streiter of Chicago. Two lots bought on Alexander Street, and residences for the new teachers were built on them, for the sum of $3,909.26.

1905 - September - Eighth grade added to the day school.

1907 - July - Celebration of Golden Anniversary. In 50 years, 3,637 were baptized, 1,952 confirmed, 925 couples were married and 1,421 were buried.

1908 - March 12 - Death of teacher Ernest Fickweiler.

1910 - Teacher T. M. Senne joined the faculty.

1913 - December 16 - Death of Mr. G. F. Brust, last of original 14 founders.

1918 - January 4 - Mr. E. H. Munzel is added to the teaching staff.

1919 - Mr. E. P. Rosenau joined the faculty.

1921 - Congregation spent $76,000 for the erection of a Parish Hall at the corner of B and Third Streets.

1922 - Mr. J. H. Meyer added to faculty.

1923 - On October 15 Mr. G. Burger called as teacher.

1924 - Mr. E. H. Krentz added to faculty.

1926 - January 1 - Congregation numbered 1,900 souls, 1,320 communicant members, 288 voting members, and 265 children were enrolled in the day school. Mr. Elmer Thode, a candidate from Concordia Seminary, St. Louis, MO., was ordained as missionary to China.

1927 - February 22 death of teacher G. Burger.

1930 - January 20 - Congregation decided to call an assistant. May 29 - Death of Rev. Paul Eickstaedt.

1931 - In August a call was extended to Rev. Manfred E. Reinke of Ft. Wayne, Indiana. October 11 - Rev. Manfred E. Reinke was installed into office by Rev. Fred Zucker.  Armin Richard Gesswein, revival editor of Christian Life magazine, was ordained August 2, 1931, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, LaPorte, Indiana and then went on to pastor Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Long Island, New York. He conducted many evangelistic crusades during his career, including participating in several Billy Graham Crusades.

1932 - April congregation resolved to buy a new parsonage at 102 First Street. October 9-16 - 75th Anniversary of congregation celebrated. Church redecorated by Ladies Aid.

1935 - January 6 - New Year's service to be conducted in English. Old parsonage at 308 "C" Street sold for $2,000. April 7 St. John's first established a Memorial Fund. July 7 organization of St. John's Lutheran Layman's League formed. Nov. 17 25th Anniversary of Teacher T. M. Senne celebrated.

1937 - Celebration of 80th Anniversary of the congregation celebrated. June 13 Congregation entered the Synodical Old Age Pension Plan. October 10 Congregation begins sponsoring a Boy Scout Troop.

1938 - January 8 resolved to conduct voter's meetings in English.

1939 - March 26 resolved that midweek Advent and Lenten services be in English. Congregation purchased Accident Compensation Insurance for the Pastor, Teachers, Janitor, Sexton and Assistant Sexton for the first time. April 30 special service for the centennial celebration of the Saxon Immigration to America. (Traveling historical presentation made by Rev. Elvin Riemer for the LCMS)

1940 - October 6 Mr. J. H. Meyer named principal of St. John's School.

1942 - March 22 resolved that communion service be held on Ash Wednesdays. May 24 Church improvement plan adopted.

1943 - July 18 Celebration of 10th Anniversary of Walther League Chorus. Walter Burger honored for his 10 years of service as founder and director. July retirement of Teacher J. H. Meyer. September 26 resolved to have candle-light service on Christmas Eve. Instituted a "Saturday School".

1944 - Celebration of Teacher E. P. Rosenau's 25th anniversary. Resolved to build a new church rather than remodel the old.

1945 - January 7 Arthur L. Amt installed as teacher. April 15 resolved to begin a Kindergarten, and engage a lady teacher. October 7 German Services limited to two per month. Mrs. C. Hahn appointed as teacher of kindergarten.

1946 - April 7 resolved to call a vicar from St. Louis Seminary. July 14 - Miss Dorothy Erdman to teach kindergarten. September 29 - Resolve to conduct two English services on Sundays when no German services were held. October 27 - Rev. Manfred E. Reinke's 25th Anniversary in the ministry celebrated.

1947 - January 12 - Resolved to celebrate the 90th Anniversary of our church, and the 100th anniversary of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. May 27 - Mr. Arthur L. Amt released to serve as director of Christian ducation in N. Wisconsin District. June 18 - Mrs. Philip Tanger asked to teach second grade. Mr. H. W. Gade called as principal of school.

1948 - July 11 - Weekly St. John's Church service broadcasts begun over WLOI. October 3 - Resolved to hold German communion services quarterly.

1949 - July 11 - P.T. L. (Parent-Teacher League) organized in our church. Mrs. William Witte employed as Teacher. Miss Muriel James becomes Kindergarten Teacher and Pastor's Secretary. October 23 - 25th Anniversary of Teacher E. H. Krentz observed. November 27 - Bought property at 311 B Street.

1950 - May - Death of Teacher T. M. Senne. July 17 - Resolved to purchase property of Dr. E. E. Linn on the corner of Monroe Street and Kingsbury Avenue for a future church site.

1951 - February 25 - German services discontinued. March 1 - Sunday burials abolished.

1952 - April 20 - Resolved to publish a News Letter. Decided to remodel dwelling on new church site and use it for a parsonage. July 8 - Resolved to build new church on Kingsbury Avenue and Monroe Street. July 27 - Ground-breaking ceremonies for new church. August 24 - Teacher E. H. Krentz released to sister congregation in Chicago. Mr. Roger Kohlman and Mr. Roland Habanek added to the faculty.

1953 - On January 11 the corner stone laying of new church was held. January 18 Mr. Roland Habanek called as teacher and resolved that 311 B Street property to be used for kindergarten. April 12 resolved that new church windows be ordered from firm of "Giannini and Hilgart" fo Chicago. May 3 - Parsonage on First Street sold. July 7 - Resolve to purchase church furniture from "Manitowoc Co." October 4 - Resolve to let contract for new organ to firm of Henry Schlicker. November 8 - Old church sold to "La Porte Little Theatre Group."

1954 - On May 2 Valedictory service held at old church. Dedication of new Church. May 30 the First Communion was held in the new church. July 6 Congregation resolved to purchase public address system for new church.

1955 - Mr. Harold Banser engaged as principal and Miss Norma Koth and Mr. Marvin Himmler as teachers. Mrs. Carl Hahn was engaged as the kindergarten teacher. On January 6 Mrs. Ruth Hootman becomes church organist. On April 24 Mr. R. Kohlman accepts call to Missouri. On August 2 the Congregation resolved to pave parking area.

1956 - June 12 resolved to build two-room addition on school. Mrs. Eugene Graham hired as teacher. October 7 celebration of the Rev. Manfred E. Reinke's 25th Anniversary as pastor of St. John's.

1957, May 19 - June 16 - Centennial celebration of St. John's Congregation. Speakers: Dr. J. H. Behnken, the Rev. Harold Meister, Dr. O. C. J. Hoffman, Dr. Walter Stuenkel, Dr. Alex Guebert, Mr. John W. Boehne, and the pastor of St. John's, the Rev. Manfred E. Reinke.

1959 - Welcome of Mr. Orv Ulmer to the faculty. Congregation grants pastors right to wear surplice & stole. PTL Scholarship Fund established for any student entering teaching profession. On September 15 Congregation votes to build new Day School at Kingsbury & Monroe, and establish a New School Building Fund.

1960 - Miss Monyean Hagenow contracted as teacher.

1961 - Congregation grant of $250 offered to all students of Lutheran Ministerial Colleges, and all males students of Lutheran teacher's college s. Pastor Reinke honored for 40 years of service in ministry and 30 years at St. John's. Congregation passed a resolution to build a go ahead with the building of a new school, bought two properties and acquired an option on a third home.

1963 - Mr. Carl Garske leaves faculty, & Mr. Dale Will & Mr. Lawrence Ellsworth join faculty.

1964 - Introduced individual cups for communion on the fourth Sunday of each month as of January 26. Time of first service changed to 8:15am with Sunday School at 9:15am on November 29.

1965 - Teacher Will Loeschmann hired to replace Lawrence Ellsworth. Congregation voted to hired the firm of Stade, Dolan and Anderson for the architectural work of the new school. Wells Organization of National Fundraising Services to direct the campaign to raise money.

1966 - Pastor Reinke semi-retired, Pastor Meyer becomes Associate Pastor, then called to be head pastor in November. Mr. Donald Kierstead leaves faculty. Purchase of another property on Kingsbury Avenue.

1967 - Mr. Orv Ulmer serves as interim principal after the release of Principal Roland Habanek. Mr. Blayne Albrecht installed as 3rd Grade teacher. Church sells some of the Kingsbury Avenue properties. Plans made to construct new School and Activities Building in two phases, with gym to be built in 2nd phase.

1968 - Service times changed to 8:15 am & 10:45am, with Sunday School at 9:30am. Mr. Arthur Beyer begins duties as teacher of Grades 4 & 5, then later accepted a position as teacher & principal in Florida. Mr. Florian Felts called to fill position of principal of the school. Building committee awarded contracts for construction of the school to Tonn & Blank Construction Co. of Michigan City, Dye Plumbing & Heating of La Porte, and Foutz Electrical Co. of La Porte. Ground breaking held on April 28. Miss Monyean Hagenow resigned as teacher of Grade 2. LWML organized at St. John's. Rev. Richard Krenzke, assistant Professor at VU, assists our pastors with confirmation classes, and preaching for mid-week services. Cornerstone laying for new School on Nov. 24. Voted to put storm windows on outside of stained glass windows of church. Congregation withdrew all support of Walther League and name of youth group changed.

1969 - Miss Diane Meier assigned as intern teacher to teach Grade 3 for one year. Walter Burger, Walther League Chorus Director for 35 years, passed away. His son, William Burger, assumed leadership of the chorus. Mrs. Anton Hoeppner hired as part-time secretary of the school office. Sudden death of Pastor Reinke on July 28. Dedication service for the new School and Activities Building on Sept. 21. Miss Monyean Hahn returned as teacher of Grade 2. Rev. Reinke memorial Fund established to purchase books & equipment for new school library. Church office moved to new School building and church secretary, Mrs. Elmer Roempagel, began full-time duty. School lunch program started on Nov. 3

1970 - Pastor Robert Schroeter hired to assist St. John's part-time. Prof. Krenzke accepted a call to Southern Illinois . Mrs. Carl Hahn retired as Kindergarten teacher. Mrs. Paul Fenker contracted to teach Kindergarten. Miss Darlene Dobberstein served as intern teacher for Grade 3. Thrift Shop opened in old school building and the women of the congregation will run the shop under the direction of Miss Adelheid Schumm.

1971 - Mrs. Dale Will contracted to teach kindergarten. Old Parish Hall sold to the Eagles Lodge. Mrs. Jeanette Ross resigned as Grade 1 teacher. She was replaced by Miss Karen Hoeppner. Miss Sharon Rahn served as intern teacher for Grade 3. Contemporary Church Services held as an experiment. Rev. Thomas Mroch accepted call as assistant pastor, and installed on June 30.

1972 - Decided members will be allowed to dance in Youth Room. Decided examination of catechumens will be done in a more informal setting in evening in future. Miss Joan Zuck named intern teacher for Grade 3. Thanksgiving Services now held Thanksgiving Eve & Day. Church Council recommended 12 contemporary services be held during 1973 . Old school sold, with 2 year lease on two rooms for use by the Thrift Shop. Celebration honoring Pastor Meyer's 20 years in the ministry.

1973 - Diane Bock assigned as 3rd Grade teacher intern. Decided to no longer print individual contributions of members publicly. Elders recommend 12 Contemporary Services be held in 1974 - all at 10:45am. Voter's voted to retain our stand against lodge membership.

1974 - Board of Trustees signed contract to build school Gym, and later post phoned construction for one year due to lack of contributions. Miss Bonita Hahn assigned as intern teacher for Grade 3. Mrs. Arthur Kemp assigned to teach Grade 1. Mrs. Ruth Hootman resigned as church organist and Mrs. Edwin (MaryAnn) Scholtz named new organist. William Burger named Director of Music for church and Mr. Dale Will Director of Music for the School.

1975 - On Mother's Day children were permitted to accompany parents to communion rail. Mrs. Herbert Mantick hired to replace Mrs. Anton Hoeppner as school secretary on her resignation. Pastor Mroch accepted call to Nebraska.

1976 - Vicar Robert Junkin assigned to serve as vicar. Property purchased on A Street across from old church for Thrift Shop. H. P Demand hired to set up a fund drive for the building of the Gym.

1977 - Miss Lorinda Lehning resigned as intern teacher for Grade 3. Mrs. Ralph Howes hired to take her place. Firm of Charles Vincent Roe hired for completion of delayed building project. Monthly Sunday evening services started as an experiment. Pastor Junkin accepted call as assistant pastor.

1978 - Mrs. Donald Nelson hired as teacher for Grade 3, and intern program ended. WLOI agreed to air "The Lutheran Hour" on Sunday mornings as a public service. A shut-in Tape Ministry was started. Monthly Sunday evening services dropped. Mrs. Elmer Roempagel retired as church secretary and Miss Mary Felts hired in her place.

1979 - Special Communion Services for the elderly and handicapped began to be held four times per year in School cafeteria. Pastor Junkin received a call to Portage, IN. Groundbreaking services for the Gym and Activities Center held on Oct. 14. Mr. David Schoop assigned as vicar at St. John's on a deferred vicarage.

1980 - A group to assist the bereaved was formed and named "Willing Servants". New microphones & recording equipment purchased for church services & broadcasts. Mr. David Schoop accepted a call to serve as Assistant Pastor as St. John's. He was ordained and installed on June 15, Mr. William Loeschman resigned as 5th Grade teacher, and Mr. Patrick O'Neil hired to his position. Mrs. Eugene Dollberg was installed as a part-time Deaconess. A Board of Parish Fellowship representing all age groups of the congregation was established, and the Publicity Committee expanded to a Board of Public Relations. Youth of high school age were representatives on all the boards for the first time.

1981 - Gym dedicated on Jan. 18. First Saturday evening service held on May 9. Mr. Dave Wippich installed as 5th grade teacher on Sept. 20.

1982 - Voters adopted "Lutheran Worship" hymnal for use. Mr. Arthur Fenker Scholarship Fund established. Celebrated 125 anniversary of congregation. A chorus robe fund was established and new robes purchased for the 50th anniversary of the chorus in February 1983. Pastor Schoop accepted call as co-pastor as of Jan. 1, and Pastor Meyer celebrated 30 years in the Ministry and 25 years at St. John's.

1983 - A Food Pantry was opened by the Board of Social Ministry. Mr. Benedict Eder was assigned as vicar. Mr. Ronald Burger inducted as School Principal. St. John's, Trinity & Bethany sponsored joint activities in honor of the 500 th Anniversary of Martin Luther's birth. St. John's Sunday School changed their Advent Service to the Sunday before Christmas instead of on Christmas.

1984 - Began use of Bible Reading & Introit bulletin inserts. Mr. Orville Ulmer & Mr. Dale Will honored for 25 years in the teaching ministry. Congregation assigned Vicar Gary Wickert. Third Grade teacher Mrs. Penny Nelson was given a call to our school. Mrs. Marlene Will installed as a called kindergarten teacher.

1985 - First Men's Prayer Breakfast held. Mr. Dennis Juengel assigned as vicar. Mrs. Mary Ann Scholz resigned as head organist and Mr. Dan Surma took on more organist duties. All organists now to work under the Director of Music. The Lutheran Hymnal to used during Saturday Services. Mrs. Debra Atwood hired as new Junior Kindergarten teacher. Mrs. Willard Schultz retired as Sunday School teacher after 40 years of service.

1986 - Voters adopted a resolution that women be allowed to participate in discussions at the Voter's Meetings beginning in May. Mrs. Marilee Mantick resigned as School secretary and Mrs. Annelie Schoop was hired in her place. Jeffery Dorth assigned as vicar. New playground equipment installed at school. Mr. Ronald Burger installed as Principal and 8th Grade teacher. Fellowship pads use to begin in 1987. Pastor Meyer announced he will retire at the end of 1987.

1987 - Kennedy Evangelism training offered. Mr. Ronald Burger resigned as principal & called as Eighth Grade teacher. Mr. Hank Koehler called as principal. Widow/Widowers Support Group formed. Mr. Paul Robinson assigned as vicar. Pastor Schoop called as Administrative Pastor upon the retirement of Pastor Meyer. Ms. Carol Kemp resigned as first grade teacher, Mrs. Will to become first grade teacher, Mrs. Atwood to become Kindergarten teacher, and Mrs. Karen Koehler to teach Jr. Kindergarten. Remodeled Youth Room dedicated. Elders approve using individual cups for communion. Mrs. Elmer Roempagel retired as church archivist and Mrs. Ellen Hiedel to take over January 1988. A retirement Open House held for Pastor Meyer in December.

1988 - A new Singles Group "EAGLES" has been formed. Members begin to greet each other at beginning of service. Children's messages and use of Lay Reader's begun. Confirmation essays replace examination. Vicar Jerome Mitchell assigned to St. John's. Call committee formed to locate an associate pastor. Space Allocation committee presents proposals for better use of church building.

1989 - A Scholarship Fund established for members choosing to become pastors, teachers or deaconess. Organ purchased for Chapel. Voted to approve Woman's Suffrage in certain areas. Women first accepted as voting members at May meeting. Called Pastor Richard Ungrodt as Associate Pastor, and installed in June. Mrs. Monyean Hahn retires after 29 years as teacher of St. John's School. Vicar Charles Kieschnick assigned to St. John's. Board of Education divided into School Board (for Day School) and Board of Parish Education (for church).

1990 - New women's group "Thirty Something" formed. A clavinova is purchased for church. Miss Laurie Bonczkowski called as 2nd Grade teacher. Voted to make Church, School & Thrift Shop "smoke-free". Mrs. Marci Burger retires as School Librarian after 22 years. Mrs. Penny Nelson resigns as teacher. Mr. R. Ronald Rosenkaimer II inducted as new vicar. Dedication of Gym wall mural, painted by Mr. Richard Ott. First Annual Outdoor Service and Church Picnic held on Rally Day Sunday.

1991 - First Nominating Committee formed. Mr. Blayne Albrecht and Mrs. Marlene Will honored for 25 years in teaching. Food Pantry closes. Mr. Dale Will's call deposed. Mrs. Ruth Radke hired as teacher of 6th grade and School Music Director, Miss Jill Peters to teach Senior Kindergarten and Mrs. Karla Eigenmann to teach Jr. Kindergarten.

1992 - Congregation forms Call Committee for the position of Minister of Youth, Singles & Young Adults. Teacher Mr. Ronald Burger accepts call to Indianapolis. Jr. Kindergarten is eliminated. Pastor Ungrodt's title changed to Assistant Pastor. "Mom's Care & Share" group started. Miss Jill Peters resigned and Mrs. Karla Eigenmann to teach Kindergarten. Mr. Dave Hinkle accepts call as 8th Grade teacher. first Communion program for children in Grades 5 to 8 begun. Mr. Daniel Levenhagen retires as Custodian of Cemetery records and Mr. Calvin Wolfe takes his place. A new fellowship group - "Christian Young Adults" is formed.

1993 - Rev. Donald Love accepts call to be Pastor of Youth, Singles & Young adults, and is installed on Feb. 14. A science lab is completed for the 8th Grade Room. Constitution revised by voters and communion services are now celebrated with both common cup and individual cups. Principal and 6th Grade positions both made full-time. St. John's first float in La Porte July parade. Maternity leave policy established for school staff. Teacher Blayne Albrecht released from his call. Mrs. Kim Engle hired to teach 4th Grade. Mrs. Annelie Schoop retires as School Secretary and Miss Imogene Dahl is hired.

1994 - "Little Saints Sanctuary" formed for child-care during church services. Mr. Hank Koehler resigns as School Principal. Mr. Dave Hinkle called to be full-time principal. Called Miss Jodi Zehnder as 8th Grade teacher. Open house held in honor of Orville Ulmer's 35 years in teaching and at St. John's. Miss Julie Stelter installed as 4th Grade teacher and Mrs. Lois Krider as 3rd Grade teacher. Mrs. Dawn Crum hired as School Assistant Cook. Pastor Love accepts call to Minnesota. "Men with a Mission" is formed. Walther League Chorus annual Christmas Concert at the La Porte Civic performed this year with Lutheran Gospel singers/evangelists Barb & Dave Anderson, and former Lutheran Hour speaker Dr.Oswald Hoffman.

1995 - Mr. Henry Snyder retires as Sunday School Superintendent after 20 years of Service. Mrs. Melody Povlock takes his place. Call committee formed to call a DCE. Pre-school & Day Care Program formed. Mrs. Annette Williams is named director and Miss Theresa Cowgill hired as teacher. Church Library moved to the Ladies Lounge. Mr. Joe Brush retires after many years as custodian. Mr. Richard Ott makes new building sign for exterior of School.

1996 - School secretary title changed to Administrative Assistant. Mr. James Kostielney hired as custodian. A Five-phase program for remodeling the church and school is proposed by the Planning Committee. Bookkeeper position formed for church. Miss Jodi Zehnder accepts call to Michigan. St. John's School awarded full "National Lutheran School Accreditation". Mrs. Melinda Bremer is hired as Preschool Teacher, and later called to the position.

1997 - Summer Day Care Program approved. Mrs. Laurie Ulmer accepts call to Michigan. Mrs. Bea Shelby hired as custodian. Miss Amy Brill (soon to be Mrs. Guse) accepts call as 8th Grade teacher. Miss Shannon Dobler accepts call to teach Kindergarten. Mr. David Hinkle resigns as principal.

1998 - Mrs. Melinda Bremer called school principal. Ms. Mary Rooney hired as Administrative Assistant. Mrs. Amy Guse accepts call to Wisconsin. Mrs. Rio Light installed as Pre-School teacher, Mrs. Sally Fogelsong for 2nd Grade and Ms. Janis Martinsen as 4th Grade teacher. Miss Julie Stelter becomes 8th Grade teacher.

1999 - 7th Grade Teacher Orville Ulmer honored for 40 years of teaching at St. John's. New Hymnal Supplement approved for use. Voter's approve at least one Prayer and Praise Service per month. Every Member Visitation established by Elders. Congregation approves "Project 2000" for repairs and remodeling to Church & School. In August, the position of Congregation Coordinator is established to work with volunteer organizations. Mrs. Debra Riemer Trowbridge is hired for that position. In November a new Youth Board & Board of Public Relations established. Archivist, Mrs. Ellen Heidel, retires in December 31, and Mrs. Debra Riemer Trowbridge takes over her position.

2000 - In January, St. John's begins Internet Web Site & use of e-mail addresses through the Congregation Coordinator. A new Junior High Youth Group established & Youth T-N-T Service established on Sunday nights. A new Staff Care Committee is formed. The 3rd weekend each month is set aside for Prayer & Praise service.  Lutheran Hour Ministries group begins airing "On Main Street" on LaPorte Cable TV & "Woman-to-Woman" on WLOI radio. The Lutheran Hymnal is removed from use during Worship in favor of Lutheran Worship book & the new Hymnal Supplement.  In June, hold retirement service/reception for 7th Grade teacher Mr. Orville Ulmer 41 years at St. John's.  Mr. Stephen Parry called to 7th grade position. Celebration for Pastor Schoop's 20 years as Ordained Minister. School Technology Committee purchases wireless computers. Church Council approves formation of Hispanic Outreach Ministry.  Pastor Richard Ungrodt allowed to pursue CPE studies. In December, Pastor James Link is contracted as a part-time Pastor of Visitation.

2001 - In February, Pastor Link accepts a Call to Wisconsin. Pastor James Beversdorf hired as a part-time Pastor of Visitation. Pastor David Schoop accepts a call to Calvary Lutheran, Sioux City, Iowa. In March, committee formed to contract an Interim Pastor. Pastor Schoop leaves for Iowa March 31, & Pastor Ungrodt for Chaplancy Ministry on April 30. In June, Principal Mindy Bremer accepts a call to Immanuel Lutheran in Valparaiso. Organist MaryAnn Scholz retires and Mrs. Susan Rosselli is hired to become the new parttime organist.  In July, the LCMS CITI program is hired to provide Interpreter for Deaf for Worship services 2nd Saturday monthly.  Rev. Karl Koch is contracted as Intentional Interim Pastor.  Contracted Mrs. Cheryl Hoard as 6th Grade teacher to replace Mrs. Ruth Radke. Mrs. Sally Fogelsong will take over lower grades choir & Mr. Steven Parry will take on upper grades choir.  In August, teacher Mr. David Wippich is contracted as Interim Principal. Contracted Ms. Jennifer Van't Hof as 5th Grade teacher.  In October,  Mr. Matt Nelson takes over Music Department, while Director Mr. Bill Burger is on leave.  Mr. David Wippich is Called as School Principal. 

2002 - In January formed Call committee for Administrative Pastor position.  Church Secretary Miss Mary Felts resigns. Elders ask Mrs. Debra Trowbridge to act as Interim Office Manager along with her Congregation Coordinator duties until an Office Manager can be hired, and Imogene Dahl volunteers as part-time Pastor's Secretary. In May, Voter's hire Mr. Matt Nelson as part-time Directory of Music Ministries. A trial weekly Contemporary/Modern Worship Service is begun during 10:45 a.m. Worship Service.  In June, work begins on a new Church Directory.  7th Grade teacher Steve Parry resigns from teaching at the end of the school year.  Cheryl Hoard takes the 7th grade class and Mindy Bremer is called back to take over the Sixth Grade class.  In July "Project 2000 and Beyond" is put on hold.  In November, Voter's eliminate the Congregation Coordinator position, & approve a Call committee to seek a new Administrative Pastor.  2002 Church directory completed by Board of Public Relations in November.

2003 -  January 1, Mrs. Emily Miner begins as Church Office Manager.  Pastor Beversdorf accepts a call as part-time pastor at a local congregation, while remaining part-time Pastor at St. John's.  School Administrative Assistant Mary Rooney resigns and Ms. Mary Fetters is hired to that position.  2nd Grade teacher Sally Foglesong & 5th Grade teacher Jennifer Van't Hof resigns.  In May, Matt Nelson announces Church Organ will cost $71,023.00 to repair. New handicap ramp constructed by members in May/June. Voter's call Beth Hoeppner as second grade teacher and David Hoeppner as fifth Grade teacher, and both accept. Voter's call Rev. David Young as Administrative Pastor, he accepts and is installed on July 6. Emily Miner resigns as Church Office Manager, and Marilyn Salwasser fills in part-time at Church office. School receives it's Accreditation. November Voter's approve obtaining a Vicar and releasing Rev. James Beversdorf from his contract in January.  Vicar Timothy Sassaman begins December 1.  The 10:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship  service reduced from weekly to the 2nd & 4th Sundays.  Church boiler (furnace) breaks down in October & Worship services are moved to School Building. Special 70th year Walther League Chorus Christmas concert at the LaPorte Civic recognizes 70 continuous years of participation in the chorus by Martin and Elenora Volrath and 69 years by Jeanette Darby. New furnace installed & organ repairs completed in time for Christmas Eve service.

2004 - January 1 Mrs. Linda Woodruff is hired as Church Secretary.  January 31 Rev. James Beversdorf is released from his contract as part-time Pastor of Visitation. The Voter's Assembly voted to have the Board of Parish Fellowship take over the duties of the Staff Care Committee. Voter's Assembly approved a no-limit clause be added to the by-laws concerning the length of term of all board positions.  In February, Contemporary Worship services are discontinued until further notice.  In April, air conditioning is installed in the church.  St. John's celebrates 50th Anniversary of dedication of current church building on May 16 with a special dinner.  In June, Voter's Assembly calls Rev. Ronald Brauer as Associate Pastor.  He accepts the Call and is installed June 27, 2004.  Congregation also votes to discontinue sponsoring Lutheran Hour Ministries programs. A series of fund-raisers are held to pay for the new heating and air conditioning systems. 

2005 - In February, the first LILY fundraising dinner for the school & church is held. In March, the congregation voted to enter into an agreement with Capital Funding Services of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, at a cost of $31,000 for the purpose of leading St. John’s in a sustained giving stewardship emphasis program. In May, a new 2005 church pictorial directory is completed by the Board of Public Relations.  In June, Kristi Georgi is called as 7th grade teacher & installed July 30.  A new women's circle called the "Family Circle" is formed in July. "Our Word, His Joy" is formed as a time for praise and prayer for the youth and others on Sunday evenings. In October, the Capital Funding program wraps up and congregation member three-year pledges are reported. St. John's discontinues support of "The Lutheran Hour" Sundays on LaPorte radio station WLOI after 28 continuous years.

2006 - In January, the music department and pastors decided to move the 73rd annual Walther League Chorus Christmas Concert to the church. (The concert has been held at the La Porte Civic Auditorium for the past 64 continuous years.). In February, the Elders began a member conservation program called "Building Bridges of Friendship." Vicar Arthur Schwenk serves St. John's during the month of May (formerly served Trinity Lutheran, LaPorte); Mrs. Sandy Bangs contracted by the School Board to teach kindergarten. In July 2006 Mr. Matthew Nelson resigned as Director of Music Ministries and Chorus Director. Mrs. Debra Trowbridge resigns as Church Archivist and archivist duties are taken over by archivist assistant, Mrs. MaryJo Uebele. A committee is formed to plan the 150th Anniversary activities for St. John's in 2007.  September 1, 2006, organist Mrs. Susan Rosselli took over as Director of Music and director of the annual Christmas concert. Miss Sara DesJardins, a Valparaiso University senior in Music Education, volunteered to take over the children's choirs for the 2006-2007 school year.

2007 - In January, St. John's begins a 150th Anniversary celebration of the formation of the church, which culminates in a celebration dinner on July 15. In March, two thank offering funds were set up in honor of this anniversary: The first fund, “Reaching Outward,” is for the Indiana District Missions as our district seeks to establish ten new churches by 2009 (On the Sunday of Fulfillment (last Sunday in November) the total monies received will be sent to the Indiana District, designated for starting new churches in the District.) The second fund, “Reaching Upward,” is to the glory of God in our worship, as we receive donations towards the new hymnal for The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, Lutheran Service Book. Memorial designations may be made and recognition made with a bookplate in the hymnal.  In April it was announced there would be one worship service that weekend at 10 A.M. and that Rev. Edward Meyer will be the preacher. It was decided at the May Voter's meeting to change the time of Saturday evening services to 6:00 PM, with a trial period from June 1 through November 30.  also, Contemporary Worship Services will be re-starting in August and will be held on the 1st and the 4th Saturdays of the month.

2008 - In February 2008, Pastor David Young received and accepted a Divine Call to Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in Blue Belle, Pennsylvania. He was installed at Blue Belle on Sunday, March 2, 2008. Pastor Ronald Brauer Called to the Administrative Pastor position by the congregation as of March 2, 2008.  In June, the Day School Board announces that Miss Erin Ponder from Kokomo, Indiana, will be joining our staff as our new 5^th Grade teacher. She will be completing course work this summer and receive her diploma from Concordia University-Chicago.  Also, Megan Nieman, a new graduate from Valparaiso University, is hired to teach 3rd grade.