The Magnolia Lutheran Church Charter was signed February 3, 1942. The members first met in a Magnolia School portable. In March of 1942 they bought “Magnolia Gardens” on the corner of McGraw and 31st Avenue West, and dedication of “the white chapel” took place on September 19 of that year.
In July of 1944 Rev. Raymond W. Hedberg became the first pastor. The new church was completed in June of 1953, and the educational wing in 1962. A steeple was raised in 1966 to “Light the Way” for all from dusk ‘til dawn.
Since the spring of 1977 Rev. Robert F. Winkel and wife Sally have led the congregation through church remodeling and into many new avenues of service and community involvement. The church is the home for the Bloodmobile, Scouts, voting, Seniors groups, and more. They also share with the Columbia Home, the Compass Center, have resettled refugees from Cambodia, provide a Vacation Church School, and participate in Ecumenical Thanksgiving and other worship services, striving to serve God in their church, community and city.
From the guide to the Magnolia Lutheran Church, Seattle, Washington, Records, 1942-2012, (Pacific Lutheran University)
