As our church celebrates this centennial milestone of turning 100 years old, we look back with humble gratitude for our Heavenly Father's steadfast faithfulness, our glorious Lord Jesus' grace and mercy gifted to us, and the Holy Spirit's overflowing blessing. As we look ahead for the decades to come, we anticipate continuing to share the good news of Jesus — both across the street and around the world. Bethesda church family, congratulations on this milestone birthday! Truly, by God's grace, we are still bearing fruit that reflects the Kingdom of our Lord. He is moving in our midst, friends. Each of us has an important part and a calling to join Jesus in what He is already doing in someone's life. So, let us keep fixing our eyes on Jesus until He calls us home or He comes to get us. Either way, we win.
— Pastor Kirk Militzer
Our History
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It was 1920 when the Church of the Lutheran Brethren came to Eau Claire to host tent meetings. That first tent was set up on First Avenue, with Rev. O.M. Flugstad preaching the gospel and Mr. P.O. Langvang sharing the gospel through song. This message of truth and grace found ready hearts. Those who believed gladly accepted God's gift of salvation, and several of these men and women became the charter members of Bethesda. The North Side Presbyterian Church on Fay Street was God's answer to their prayers for a location to gather and worship together. With a location secured, Bethesda Lutheran Brethren Church was incorporated on April 14, 1924.
God blessed the ministry of this new congregation and this growth in numbers led to the need for a larger church building. In 1955 two acres of land in Putnam Heights were secured, and the following year a parsonage was built. In June 1958 the congregation broke ground for their new church home and on April 12, 1959, this new location on Polk Avenue was dedicated to the Lord's service. God continued to bless this congregation with growth to the point that in 1973 there was a need for two services each Sunday morning. In 1976 a planning committee was formed to discuss expansion of the Polk Avenue facilities. However, after much prayer and discussion, it was decided to once again step out in faith.
In 1979 land was secured for a new church home at the intersection of West Hamilton Avenue and State Street. The congregation was blessed with a number of builders who were willing and available to assist in the work, as well as many members who expressed a desire to volunteer their services. As a result of these combined efforts, Bethesda's new location was completed and dedicated to the Lord on September 7, 1980. The Lord continued to bless the ministry of Bethesda, and in 1991 the decision was made to offer three Sunday morning worship services and two Sunday School hours. Overcrowding and lack of classroom space led to the formation of a new building committee in 1992. After years of prayerful and thoughtful consideration, the congregation approved a 15,000 square foot addition. This addition was completed and dedicated to the Lord on April 19, 1998.