The first step for a new church near the Progress/Beaverton/Portland area began in 1954, when leaders of the former Evangelical Lutheran Church laid plans for starting a congregation in the area. In April of 1960 the Washington County Planning Commission issued a certification for the construction of a church in Progress, Oregon, later known as 7400 Scholls Ferry Road, Beaverton. The contract for construction to begin was signed in February of 1961. Rev. Herbert W. Siefkes was called as the first pastor of the church, beginning his ministry on May 1, 1961. He helped to facilitate the building project, purchase a parsonage and organize a steering committee for the new congregation. The first service was held in the church on June 18, 1961 and the first Sunday School a week later. Rev. Siefkes was installed on November 5 of that year, that date also marking the dedication of the building. The congregation had 41 charter members. Rev. Christianson was the next pastor of Atonement, and his music is remembered as being a significant part of his ministry, as he wrote many songs for the congregation to use.
From the guide to the Atonement Lutheran Church, Beaverton, Oregon, Records, 1961-2012, (Pacific Lutheran University)
