A Journey of Faith
Our History
Zion Lutheran Church has grown from its humble beginnings in a purchased church on 12th and Division to become a cornerstone in the community. Over the years, it has achieved significant milestones, including the construction of a new church at its current location on 4th and Garfield, the addition of a brick parsonage, and various renovations and expansions. Today, Zion Lutheran stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the early visionaries who laid the foundation for a Lutheran presence in Camas over a century ago.
Zion Through the Years
Zion Lutheran Church of Camas, Washington was founded on May 9, 1897, by fourteen German men, with the help of Rev. J.J. Kern of Portland. The original church, located at what is now 12th and Division, was purchased from the Evangelical Church at the end of 1897 for $325.00. This served as Zion’s place of worship until 1938.
The first organ was purchased in 1898 for $58.00 with a down payment of $10.00 and the balance paid off at $5.00 per month!
From its humble beginnings in a purchased church on 12th and Division, through the changing leadership and growth over the years, the church has evolved to become a cornerstone in the community. With each passing decade, new milestones were achieved, including the construction of a new church at its current location on 4th and Garfield, the addition of a brick parsonage, and various renovations and expansions. Today, Zion Lutheran Church stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of those early visionaries who laid the foundation for a Lutheran presence in Camas over a century ago.
Our Historical Timeline
Take a look back at the significant milestones and events that have shaped Zion Lutheran Church over the years.
1897
Founding of Zion Lutheran Church
Zion Lutheran Church, established by dedicated believers, has been a cornerstone of faith since 1897. The original church, purchased for $325.00, served as a place of worship until 1938 when the vibrant community expanded. The first organ, acquired in 1898 for $58.00, symbolizes the rich history and deep commitment to worship at Zion.
1916
Ladies Aid Society
The Ladies’ Aid society was formed in 1916. In 1919 the women of Zion Lutheran Church were given the right to vote in church affairs.
The first congregational minutes were recorded in English by Gus Lorenz and English replaced German as the language used at church services in 1925. The church was renovated under the tenure of Pastor Phillip Rusert.
1936
Expansion and Outreach
In 1936, Pastor Weitzenkamp oversaw the construction of Zion Lutheran Church at 4th and Garfield in Camas. The church experienced rapid growth with the addition of a new parsonage and the support of the local paper mill. By the 1940s, Zion’s membership and finances thrived, leading to plans for a social hall and an expanded sanctuary.
2024 -Forward
Centennial Celebration
Zion Lutheran Church celebrates its upcoming 130th anniversary in 2027, showcasing a legacy of faith and dedication that spans well over a century. Established by a few visionary German families over 127 years ago in Camas, Zion Lutheran Church remains steadfast in its commitment to serving the community with love and compassion.
Moments in Time
Historical Photo Gallery
Get in Touch
Contact Us
We would love to hear from you! Whether you have questions about our history or want to get involved, please reach out.
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Discover the dynamic activities and heartfelt community involvement at Zion Lutheran Church. We invite you to be a part of our ongoing story, where faith and fellowship flourish.