Immanuel Lutheran Church

Immanuel Lutheran Church is a church building in Altenburg featuring a limestone exterior and a tall steeple on Main Street. The structure displays traditional Lutheran architectural design and serves as the gathering place for the local congregation.

The congregation was founded in 1857 when Pastor Georg Albert Schieferdecker and members separated from Trinity Lutheran Church over theological differences regarding biblical interpretation. The first stone church was built in 1858 after the group initially gathered in private homes and later in a temporary wooden structure.

The church maintains German language traditions during its Christmas Eve services, where the congregation sings Christmas carols in their original German versions. These practices connect visitors to the heritage of the German-speaking settlers who established the community.

The church is located at 8201 Main Street and is part of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod denomination. Visitors should check ahead for service times, especially if interested in attending the traditional German language Christmas observances.

Before the stone building was constructed in 1858, congregation members first gathered in private homes. The group then built a temporary blockhouse, showing how the early Lutheran community relied on simple means and strong commitment to establish their place of worship.

Location: Altenburg

Website: http://lutheransonline.com/servlet/lo_ProcServ/dbpage=page&mode=display&gid=20110604255913153901111555

GPS coordinates: 37.63090,-89.60840

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:45