After five attempts by various groups in Elma to start a Lutheran congregation, Rev. Orville R. Kleppe was sent on August 8, 1960 to organize a Lutheran church. The first service was held on September 11 of that year, with the first service in the new sanctuary taking place the following Christmas Day with 145 people present. Beginning in 1972, an educational wing was built with trees from the property and by volunteer labor. Following the resignation of Virgil Wood in 1983, Faith entered into dialogue with LCA sister congregation Village of Montesano to share a pastor. After months of negotiation Faith agreed with Village to call Rev. Paul R. Hermansen in a first time two-point parish. The call began on October 1, 1983 as a two-year trial. After 18 months the congregations unanimously decided to extend an open-ended call to Rev. Hermansen.
From the guide to the Faith Lutheran Church, Elma, Washington, Records, 1961-2012, (Pacific Lutheran University)
