Early on, mission developers started canvassing the area for Lutherans. Some of these dedicated men were the Revs. John Barthel, W. H. Bewie, C. Scheiderer, and A. J. F. Meier. Quarterly services were being held in the homes with these ministers as early as 1920.

Grace Lutheran Church in Lamesa, as we know it now, is actually the second Grace Lutheran Church in Lamesa. The first one began in 1932 and then disbanded in 1939 because they had never acquired property and Pastor Authur Bruns accepted a call to another area.

The existing plant started in February 1948. Some members of St. Paul Lutheran church of Sparenberg, who had moved from the country into the city, asked permission to start a church in Lamesa. With St. Paul’s blessing and the aid of St. Paul’s minister, the Rev. E. J. Riske, nine men drew up and signed a constitution. They then began seeking funds to build their house of worship. Eventually they received funds from a bank in Albany, Texas. A 30 ft. by 60 ft. sanctuary was built, along with a modern 3-bedroom parsonage. June 19, 1949, the church was dedicated, although the church had not been successful in obtaining a minister at that time.

One week after dedication, Rev. Riske, vacancy pastor, confirmed the first group of 4 young people. (Betty Geltmeier, Karlene Kaddatz, Dalton Noack and Claudine Schneider)

The Rev. A. J. Rebber accepted Grace Lutheran’s call. He moved his family into the parsonage in August 1949.

Grace Lutheran Church grew steadily, but received its biggest boost when St. Paul Lutheran of Sparenberg closed its doors and the two congregations united in March 1958. The old mother church at Sparenberg was dismantled and became the fellowship hall, Sunday school rooms, and kitchen for Grace Lutheran. Also used from the old church were its beautiful stained glass windows and handsome light fixtures.

Many faithful men have served the Lord in bringing to the people God’s Word and sacraments for over 50 years. Grace Lutheran Church will continue to be a dedicated family of forgiven sinners seeking first God’s kingdom and sharing the grace-filled hope of eternal life in Jesus with all His children. To God Alone Be the Glory!