Faith Lutheran Church (Salem, Or.)

Rev. George Holmquist organized faith in the Keizer area of Salem, with a membership of 92 adults. The suggestion for the new congregation came from Rev. Getzendanner of St. Mark Lutheran in Downtown Salem. After a house-to-house survey, the first service was held on February 5, 1950. Property was purchased on River Road but services continued in rented quarters until 1959, when the first unit of the church was completed. In 1975 the educational unit was added. The church proper was completed and dedicated June 7, 1981. An eight rank organ was added in 1982. In 1981 the congregation also enlarged its kitchen facilities so that a church-sponsored Meals on Wheels program could begin. By 1984 the congregation was providing some 32,000 meals yearly. Such community service has been characteristic of Faith.