St. Paul Lutheran came into existence on August 22, 1889 through the efforts of eleven men who, as members of St. John Evangelical Lutheran in Albina, Missouri Synod, had become dissatisfied with the introduction of the doctrine of predestination. Under the direction of Rev. J. W. Theiss, they first worshipped at a Lutheran church at East Seventh and Lincoln streets. Later, they decided to solicit pledges for a new church of their own. When a part of the congregation wished to acquire the property of the disbanded St. John congregation, a new split occurred. One group formed Trinity Lutheran, and those who remained as St. Paul Lutheran made application to the Joint Synod of Ohio and Other States for a pastor and mission support. In March of 1896 a site was purchased at East 12th and Clinton Streets. On May 17 of that year the cornerstone was laid, and in August the building was dedicated to the service of God. The construction of a parsonage began in 1899 and was completed the following year. In 1909 the church was enlarged to accommodate the growing congregation. The 25th anniversary was celebrated in 1914, and the 50th anniversary on October 9, 1939.
In the summer of 1946, a building site was purchased at 39th and Brooklyn Streets in Southeast Portland for $3,084. Groundbreaking ceremonies for the new church were held June 25, 1950. The last service in the old church was held May 25, 1951, and the new church was dedicated September 9, 1951.
From the guide to the St. Paul Lutheran Church, Portland, Oregon, Records, 1889-2012, (Pacific Lutheran University)
