It was in April of 1956 that Pastor Ralph Sandgren began survey work in the area, and after many months of contacting people the decision to organize was made with 46 charger members committing themselves to Messiah Lutheran on May 5, 1957. The first meeting place was Rocky Mountain College. The first church was erected in 1957 and served until the present church was built in 1974. The first building was sold to St. Elijah Orthodox Church in 1973. Messiah has had strong ministries with emphasis on evangelism, Christian education for children and adults, financial stability, and meaningful worship. Lay involvement has been sought to assist decision making, planning and implementing of the total church program. Steady numerical growth and an expanding church program has brought Messiah’s current membership to 455.
From the guide to the Messiah Evangelical Lutheran Church, Billings, Montana, Records, 1957-2012, (Pacific Lutheran University)
