The Globe Gazette
Mason City, Cerro Gordo County, Iowa
Monday, June 01, 1953
Centennial Edition, Section 8

[Section 8, Page 10] First place of worship to be complete in the city's recent large church building program was the Central Lutheran, the interior of which is shown above with the Rev. Marvin O. Lee at the altar.

NOTE: Central Lutheran Church was organized in 1927, the first services held at the Chamber of Commerce rooms. Ground breaking for the church was celebrated on October 14, 1927 and the basement portion was dedicated on March 25, 1928. The basement portion served the congregation and as the foundation of the superstructure as it was being constructed and later dedicated on April 16, 1950. Central Lutheran Church and Immanuel Lutheran Church merged on June 3, 1962, becoming Saint Paul Lutheran Church. All movable contents that could be used, including the Wicks Memorial Pipe Organ, was moved into the Central Lutheran building, located at 329 East State Street. The Immanuel Church and parsonage were rented out but eventually sold. Ground breaking ceremonies for a new Educational Unit was observed on September 6, 1964, and dedication services for the structure was held on Sunday, May 16, 1965. During this time the chancel area was enlarged to accommodate a free-standing altar with more kneeling area. SOURCE: stpaulmc.com

Central Lutheran Church and St. Paul Lutheran Church merged in 1962.

Transcription by Sharon R. Becker, January of 2015