Immanuel Lutheran Church celebrated its 125th anniversary in 2008. Founded by Norwegian immigrants in 1883, the congregation served the immigrant community during the first decades of its existence. The congregation has since lost its Norwegian identity, although it celebrates its ethnic heritage by sponsoring a Norwegian Bazaar in the fall. Today, Immanuel reflects the transient nature of modern society as a large majority of its members have moved to Wausau from neighboring states and other Wisconsin communities. Immanuel is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA).
The congregation built its current worship facility in 1949 and has added or remodeled educational and office facilities at various times since. Currently the congregation is debt free and is concentrating extra resources toward benevolences.
Immanuel historically has been open to new practices within Lutheranism. It was one of the first congregations to extend the right of women to vote on congregational policy and to hold elected office, a practice that was in place at least by 1922. It has been a leader in ecumenism. It has enjoyed good relations with our Roman Catholic neighbors and currently participates in Palm Sunday marches, Thanksgiving worship services and Vacation Bible School with the parish of St. Michael, a close neighbor. The congregation encourages youth participation in its activities. A college scholarship program is supported by the congregation. For several decades children have been encouraged to participate in the Lord’s Supper.
In recent years the congregation has encouraged its members to get to know one another better through dinner groups, outdoor activities, and member visits to those who are no longer able to attend worship. A Senior Luther League for those who need physical assistance has been formed.
Currently, the congregation is reaching out to more people in need in the community. These actions reflect Immanuel’s recently adopted mission statement to nurture, serve, learn, tell, give, and grow.
