Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (Salem, Or.)

On December 3, 1950, Rev. Homer Berner led the first worship service for a group in south Salem. The organizational service for Good Shepherd was held at St. Mark Lutheran on April 22, 1951. A month later the charter had 88 names. Temporary quarters proved insufficient and on September 11, 1955 the first unit, consisting of a chapel and nine classrooms, was dedicated. Five years later a parsonage was built. The growth of the city of Salem followed a pattern other than anticipated. It became apparent that a different location would prove advantageous. Under Pastor Eller’s leadership the original property was purchased on Oak Hill. In June of 1964 a new church was dedicated. An organ was added in 1979, and by 1985 all indebtedness was fully paid.

From the guide to the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Salem, Oregon, Records, 1951-2012, (Pacific Lutheran University)