Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church (Startup, Wash.)

For years, Lutherans in the Startup area had hoped for a congregation of their own. Many of them drove to nearby communities. Some of the synods promised to start work there, but it never materialized. However, under the persistence of such persons as Pauline K. Lagner, the Rev. Kenneth Daugs and his congregation, Prince of Peace in Everett, stated their willingness to establish a congregation. The congregation was served sporadically until 1983. Rev. Gerald Hefty came as the first full-time pastor in 1984. Services are held in the Seventh Day Adventist Church.