OSLC History

In the fall of 1908 eight people, new to the United States and new to the city of Rockford, met together with Pastor P.W. Erikson to discuss their need to worship God and to fellowship with others.

The first meeting of this group was in a home on West State Street and a name was chosen for their family of faith - First Norwegian-Danish Evangelical Lutheran Church. In 1910 the church found a home in the first block of East State Street.

In 1938 the congregation voted to change its name to Our Savior's Lutheran Church as a reflection of its diversity. Soon the need for a change in location also became apparent. The first service at 3300 Rural Street was held on October 4, 1953. In 1953 Rural Street was recognized as the very end of Rockford; yet today Our Savior's stands in the heart of the city.

Expansion was necessary for the quickly growing church in 1960 and 1986. Recent additions to the building were completed in 1998. At that time a multi-purpose facility named Shepherd's Gate was dedicated to outreach in the community. In 1999 an 800 seat Worship Center was completed as a center for the worship and praise of God as well as an outstanding arena for community concerts and events.

Baptized membership at Our Savior's stands at over 2000 members. Our Savior's is served by a staff of 15 full and part time people. This staff brings various skills and abilities to the mission of the congregation.

Our Savior's is committed to the city of Rockford and the neighborhood in which it stands. Join us as we worship God, share the love of Christ with our neighbors and dedicate our gifts and talents to the community and to the world.