Luther's Seal

1991-2000

New Sanctuary - 1992
(Hedrick Archives)

1992

A new 4-classroom wing was completed and dedicated. St. John took the lead in organizing and completing the first Roanoke "Lutheran House" in the Habitat for Humanity program. In the fall, the first congregational retreat since 1969 was held at Camp Bethel in Fincastle, Virginia. There were approximately 35 in attendance. There has been a retreat every year since and, due to increased numbers of attendees, the location was moved to the 4-H Educational Center at Smith Mountain Lake in February 1998. There were 133 attendees at the 1988 retreat.

1993

The Property committee developed, designed, and supervised the installation of our new sign. In January, St. John began a Stephen Ministry with Debbie Kluttz and Sandie Gleichauf as the first formally trained leaders. The first 11 Stephen Ministers were commissioned in June 1993. The Stephen Ministers are lay ministers trained to give confidential and compassionate Christian care to people going through difficult times in their lives. In the past year, 19 Stephen ministers provided care to those in need. In July of 1993, the Reverend David K. Delaney was called as the congregation's first associate pastor. He accepted and began his ministry in August of 1993.

1994

A new congregational library was designed and built by the Property Committee.

1997

A new Children's Ministry was formed. In September of that same year, a ground breaking ceremony was held for the Columbarium. This is a place with niches for ashes to be interred and a Memorial Wall for remembrance of loved one. There are also brick pavers inscribed with names and dates.

1998

On March 15th, the Service of Dedication was held for the Columbarium. Donated benches and landscaping have helped to make this a lovely, peaceful place in which to come for meditation, prayer, and remembrance. In August, St. John became a host congregation in the Interfaith Hospitality Network. This is a ministry among the churches in the Roanoke Valley focusing on helping homeless families find jobs and places to live while providing the caring touch of compassionate, enabling friends. As a host congregation, we provide food, sleeping space, and Christian fellowship for families in temporary crisis. On November 7th, St. John's 40th Anniversary Celebration Dinner & Program was held at the Holiday Inn, Tanglewood. On the 8th of November, St. John's 40th Anniversary Worship Services and Reception were held. A new Sunday contemporary service was started at 5:00 p.m.

1999

Fall - Pastor Mark began a Walk through the Bible Sunday School class that lasted 2-1/2 years. Advent - Barbara Chandler returned to St. John as Minister of Music. The Praise and Worship Team was formed.

2000

During 2000, a Building for Ministry team was formed to develop plans for a new building and classrooms. The church website was developed and put online.