Luther Memorial began as a mission congregation, which influenced its location and development. After survey work in the Broadview area, the Board of American Missions gave Emmaus Lutheran Church exclusive assignment in the area. North Emmaus Branch Sunday School was begun in January of 1948 with worship services following in October. In November of 1949 Rev. Neale E. Nelson accepted a call to Emmaus and the North Emmaus Branch.
Property was purchased in the name of Emmaus on Greenwood North in 1950. The existing house there became a parsonage. With subsequent purchases of adjacent land came another large residence which was converted for a meeting place and became known as the “Church House”.
On March 23, 1952 the congregation was organized. Rev. Nelson continued to serve both congregations until August of 1953 when he became full-time pastor of Luther Memorial. From February of 1953 until the church was built in 1957, worship services were held in the Lutheran Bible Institute Chapel located nearby. The parish education wing was dedicated on February 11, 1962. In May of 1962 Luther Memorial hosted the last annual convention of the Columbia Conference.
From the guide to the Luther Memorial Lutheran Church, Seattle, Washington, Records, 1952-2012, (Pacific Lutheran University)
