The First Charter

As Phoenix continued to grow amid wartime needs, Faith–La Fe began as a mission of Grace Lutheran in early 1944. The first worship service took place on May 20, 1945, and by July 8, the congregation had 76 charter members. Services were held at Madison School until the chapel was dedicated on February 23, 1947, by which time the congregation had grown to 180—and today, descendants of those original members still worship with us.

Expanding for Education

By the fall of 1949, crowded classrooms and Sunday School spaces pushed classes outside—even into the parsonage living room. In response, the congregation broke ground on the education wing in February 1950, and just five months later—by July 1950—it was already serving our needs. Today, this wing houses church offices and Faith Lutheran Preschool.

Building the Sanctuary

Our sanctuary reflects a modified Spanish Mission style, complete with cloistered walkways leading to a central patio, and a towering belfry topped with an iron cross. A rose window above the altar portrays Christ praying in Gethsemane, surrounded by symbols of the twelve apostles and accented by blooming anchors—symbols of Christian hope. The nave seats 420, and the balcony holds 96—including a sound-proof room for children with their caregivers.

Faith-La Fe Today

In the late 1990s, we partnered with ReconcilingWorks and became an Official Reconciling in Christ congregation—affirming all in the name of God’s boundless love. While demographics have shifted over the decades, we remain a vibrant community of about 150 regular worshippers, rooted in faith and service beyond our walls.

The Organ Project

One of our most cherished traditions is our music—anchored by a beautiful 57-rank Moeller pipe organ. In the learly 2000s, the congregation rallied to acquire an organ from a Midwestern university. Through volunteer time and shared effort, it was transported to Phoenix and reassembled in our chancel by congregational volunteers with the instruction of organ experts. Today, under the leadership of Paul Lee, Director of Music Ministries, it stands at the heart of our 9am worship service.