History of Perry Highway Lutheran Church

Welcome to the history page of Perry Highway Lutheran Church, a community of faith that has been a cornerstone of spiritual life for generations. Founded in 1951, our church has been guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ to foster a compassionate, welcoming environment for all. From our humble beginnings in a modest meeting space to our current sanctuary, our history is a rich tapestry of faith, community outreach, and inclusive love. As part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), we have evolved over the years to address the needs of our diverse congregation while upholding the timeless Lutheran tenets of grace and faith. Whether you are new to our community or a lifelong member, we invite you to explore our history and join us on our ongoing journey of faith and fellowship.

PHLC Formation

On September 9, 1951 Reverend C. J. Loehr, at the request of the Pittsburgh Mission Society, began conducting worship services in the Wexford area. Perry Highway Lutheran Church began conducting worship services in a local storeroom without heat. On September 19, 1951 the place of worship changed to the American Legion Hall on Pine Creek Hill.

On September 1, 1952 Reverend J. Robson continued the work started by Reverend Loehr. A constitution was adopted with a charter membership of 35 people and the congregation was received into the American Lutheran Church. Land was purchased and plans were drawn up for a sanctuary.

First Church Building

Reverend E. Zick began his ministry with PHLC in September of 1953, while also serving the congregation of Lovi in Cranberry Township. The first sanctuary and parsonage were constructed and on September 19, 1954 the first service was held in the new structure.

Reverend L. Knauff was called to serve both congregations in 1959. The congregation was taken off Mission status and became self-supporting in 1961. At that time, the second major phase in the physical development of the church was undertaken and the construction of a new educational unit began. In 1962 Perry Highway Lutheran Church extended a full time call to Reverend Reiss. The new educational unit was declared in 1966. In May of 1973, a carillon and bell tower was constructed and dedicated to the memory of Reverend Reiss’s daughter, who lost her life in a tragic accident. The congregation continued to grow in size and spirit, including the Pre-Kindergarten program started under the direction of Reverend Reiss.

Reverend T. Andersen was called in January of 1974. The Pre-Kindergarten program continued to grow along with the congregation. Phase three of the building program, a new worship center, was begun. During Reverend Andersen’s tenure, ecumenical relationships with area churches were initiated.

Opening of our Current Church

Reverend H. Wagner began his ministry in October of 1981. Plans for Phase Three were again reviewed, and construction of a new worship center, gathering area, offices, and social halls began. The new church’s first worship service was held on Palm Sunday, April 4, 1987. As the topography and makeup of the community was rapidly changing, the congregation experienced some decline in membership in the coming years.

Reverend Dennis J. Ferguson was called and began his ministry in September 1993. Intentional long-range planning was done and the congregation once again began to see growth. For a couple of years, we became the fastest-growing Lutheran congregation in the Synod.  A vibrant Worship and Music Program, a focus on Youth and Children and Outreach Ministries became the community’s priorities.  During these growth years, it has been necessary to add staff;  a part-time Associate Pastor, full-time Secretary, Administrative Assistant, Music Director, and full-time Youth Director have been added to the staff.  The Pre-kindergarten continued to grow.

Embracing Inclusion in a Time of Change

The late 2000s and 2010s were transformative years for many ELCA congregations, including Perry Highway Lutheran Church (PHLC). The broader ELCA decision to support all individuals, irrespective of their sexual orientation, resonated deeply with the values at PHLC. In 2009, the congregation took a proactive step towards inclusivity by supporting the welcoming initiative, and by 2017, PHLC proudly became a Reconciling in Christ (RIC) congregation, publicly affirming its commitment to full inclusion.

However, this journey of transformation was met with a mix of enthusiasm and hesitation:

• Aligning with broader ELCA experiences, PHLC saw some long-standing members struggle with the evolving stance on LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Believing the church was moving away from traditional teachings they held dear, a few members sought spiritual homes that aligned more closely with their perspectives.
• Conversely, PHLC’s clear commitment to inclusivity, love, and acceptance was a beacon for many in the community. Individuals and families, both from LGBTQ+ communities and allies, seeking a space where all were genuinely welcomed, began to join PHLC. The church’s stance, rooted in values of unconditional love and acceptance, resonated with many who believed in a faith that transcended divisions and embraced diversity.
• While PHLC faced challenges, this period also brought the congregation closer. Open dialogues, discussions, and prayerful reflections allowed members to voice their concerns, ask questions, and deepen their understanding. This ongoing engagement fostered a sense of unity, even amidst differing opinions.
• The decision to become RIC in 2017 was a testament to PHLC’s commitment to its values. While it acknowledged the losses and challenges of the past, PHLC looked to the future with hope, seeking to be a space where all God’s children felt loved, valued, and affirmed.

In reflecting upon this era, it’s evident that while PHLC’s journey mirrored the broader shifts and tensions within the ELCA, it also carved its unique path. Even in the face of adversity, the congregation’s unwavering dedication to inclusivity and acceptance speaks to its deep-rooted belief in a faith that embraces all.

Today, with the calling of Pastor Ryan, we are now in a period of growth and program development in our church.  We endeavor to live the life that we believe Jesus would call us to here in this time and place in the North Hills of Pittsburgh.