100 years of Lutheran worship in Wagga Wagga
Bethlehem Lutheran Church joyfully marks 100 years of worship, ministry, and community in Wagga Wagga. We honour a legacy shaped by Scripture and service — from humble beginnings to today’s worship and thriving Lutheran school. Whether you’ve worshipped with us, served in leadership, sent children to the school, or simply share in this story, you’re warmly invited to reconnect, rejoice, and give thanks.
Join us as we celebrate “A Century of Grace — a past to cherish, a future to shape.” on Sunday 26 October 2025.
Lutheran worship in Wagga Wagga has stood firm, through every season of change, a living testimony to enduring faith, gracious fellowship, and shared purpose. Guided by Scripture and sustained by grace, God’s people have journeyed together in worship, witness, and community.
The roots were planted in the 1920s, when Pastor W.W. Fritsch of Milbrulong’s UELCA congregation held services in Wagga, forming St Paul’s Lutheran Church in 1925. Pastor M.J George of Henty’s ELCA congregation soon nurtured what became Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in 1945. Though distinct, both communities shared a foundation in Scripture and service — guided by rural pastors who travelled widely to shepherd their flocks.
Photo of Our Redeemer congregation
Wagga later became a hub for Lutheran radio outreach through the local station 2WG — sharing sermons and devotionals reaching many with the voice of faith. Listeners found connection and comfort in weekly broadcasts — a voice of faith echoing through static and silence.
Outside Damschke Hall Dedication 1951
In 1969, following years of growing unity, the two congregations joined under the newly formed LCA to become Bethlehem Lutheran Church. Since then, Bethlehem has embraced change in worship, leadership, and outreach while remaining anchored in grace.
Damschke Hall Dedication
The founding of Lutheran School Wagga Wagga in 1982 deepened our ministry, creating a vibrant K–6 community where students “Learn and Grow in Christ.” More than classrooms, the school became a nurturing ground for faith, character, and lifelong learning
Guided by our mission, “The disciples of God caring for the people of God,” Bethlehem continues to nurture faith through worship, pastoral care, and its enduring partnership with the school.
As we honour the past and embrace the promise ahead, may this centenary stir fresh faith, deepen community, and renew our shared commitment to God’s work — in Wagga Wagga and beyond.
Bethlehem Wagga Wagga today
A special service to celebrate will be held on the Sunday 26 October at 2pm followed by afternoon tea.
Pr David Cherry
