Over Seven Decades of Grace
For the past 70 years, people have been meeting one another and Jesus at Grace Lutheran Church. We are a steady force in a dynamic community. Through the decades the church has continued to meet the changing needs of the Arlington area.
We have placed an enormous value on reaching the next generation. This is demonstrated through our commitment to early childhood education, especially through our preschool program which began in 1975. See more about Grace Lutheran Early Education here: https://grace.lc/earlyeducation
Grace Through The Years
Rooted in the heart of Arlington since the 1950s, Grace first gathered for worship in what was once the city’s former City Hall building. Plans for a new church building initially centered on a site at 406 Summit, before the congregation’s home became the property at 210 W. Park Row Drive, where Grace stands today. The design of our church carries its own significance, reflecting the beauty of God’s creation and the faith at the heart of our congregation.
From Grace to Glory Window
Top left oval and rays: The Grace and Love of the Heavenly Father moves to us in Worship through Word and Sacrament.
The Cross: The message of “Christ Crucified” (1 Corinthians 2) is central to know God’s Grace and Love. The shape of the Cross tells of Christ’s Presence now in Word and Sacrament.
Seven red flames on left: The gifts of God’s Spirit are bestowed for Faith and Service through the Gospel.
Amethyst ellipse in upper right, with gold domes: By Grace we have the sure Hope of Glory, the promise of Revelation 21. The vision of the City of God coming to rest on the Twelve Colored Foundation, a picture of Heaven. Basic 12 colors, starting from bottom (Revelation 21); Jasper, sapphire, chalcedony, emerald, sardonyx, sardius, chrysolite, beryl, topaz, chrysoprasus, jacinth, amethyst: Grace and Treasure for the Church through Twelve Tribes, through Twelve Apostles, by Covenant, by Word, by Gospel.
Twelve triangles, surrounding cross: Gates to Heaven are open through Christ. God’s Grace in Christ unites with all Saints and Angels.
Diamond shape of glass area converging at altar: Interaction between God and His People in Worship. One Lord, one Faith, one Baptism, one God and Father of all. (Ephesians 4)
Accent of physical dimensions: “To comprehend with all Saints what is the Breadth and Length, Depth and Height, and to know the Love of Christ which Passeth Knowledge, that ye may be filled with the Fullness of God.” (Ephesians 3:18-19)
Generations of Grace
Many skilled artisans have blessed Grace, and they love to share their knowledge with younger people. Currently, there is a group of men who greatly enjoy craft BBQ and would love to share their experience through the “Holy Smokers” ministry. Bible Journaling, Braille Bibles, Music Classes and many more opportunities await eager learners.
Deep roots in the community anchor Grace to Arlington. One example is Joeckel Field, named after a longtime pastor of Grace in recognition of the church’s role in creating fellowship and a sense of community in Arlington.
One of the greatest blessings of our life together at Grace has been witnessing generations of families grow in faith, as children are baptized, confirmed, and welcomed into the life of the Church. Each name in our Book of Confirmands represents a unique story and a place in the ongoing story of God’s grace at work among us. We invite you to explore this record of those who have publicly confessed their faith and been confirmed at Grace throughout the years.
Help Us Complete Our History! If you recognize a name or person who is missing from the records, or can help us identify someone in a photograph, we would love to hear from you! Please contact Emily Massey at emassey@grace.lc. Thank you for helping us preserve Grace’s history!
Be a Part of Our History!
Grace’s history is more than dates and milestones — it’s the people, families, and memories that have shaped our life together in Christ. As we look back with gratitude, we know there are countless stories still waiting to be shared!
Do you have old photographs, fond memories, or stories from your years at Grace? We would love to hear from you! Help us preserve these memories for future generations by sharing your photos, stories, or historical information with us. Have something to share? Contact Emily Massey at emassey@grace.lc.
And the story continues! As we give thanks for all that God has done through Grace, we look forward to all He has in store. Whether you have been part of our church family for generations or are just beginning to learn about us, there is a place for you here. We invite you to join us for worship and become part of the ongoing story of God’s grace in our community.
New to Grace? We would love to welcome you! Visit grace.lc/your-first-visit to learn more about visiting us.