St. Matthew Lutheran
A Legacy Built in Faith: Remembering Our New Church

Mr. Dan Burk • Principal
May 8, 2026

4 Minute Read


As we continue to celebrate our 90th anniversary at St. Matthew, we look back with gratitude on the moments that shaped who we are today. One of those defining moments came on May 16, 1965, with the dedication of what was then our “new church.” What was once new is now part of a rich legacy—a testament to faith, vision, and the blessings of God.

At the time, the new church complex was more than just a building—it was a bold step forward in ministry. Situated on a beautiful five-acre wooded property, the campus was thoughtfully designed to serve not only as a place of worship, but as a center for education, fellowship, and community life. The complex included three main parts: the church sanctuary, an educational unit with classrooms and offices, and an activities and fellowship building. Even then, there was a clear vision that St. Matthew would be a place where people could gather, learn, grow, and serve together.

The church itself was built with a contemporary design, using natural materials like wood, brick, and fieldstone to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. It was intentionally crafted to reflect both beauty and purpose. The heart of the sanctuary was—and still is—the chancel. With the altar at its center and a large cross rising above it, the design draws the eyes and hearts of worshippers to Christ. The architectural elements, including the seven columns rising behind the chancel, create a sense of reverence and awe, reminding all who enter of God’s presence.

Every detail of the space was thoughtfully planned. As you moved away from the chancel, the church widened and rose in height, creating an open and welcoming space for worship. The craftsmanship of the woodwork, including a unique screen made of oak, cherry, and mahogany, added both warmth and character. Even practical elements—like ventilation, lighting, and layout—were carefully considered to support a growing congregation.

Beyond the sanctuary, the educational unit reflected a commitment to Christian education that continues to define St. Matthew today. With classrooms ready to serve students and space designed for future growth, it was clear that the congregation saw education as a vital part of its mission. That vision has carried forward through the decades and continues to impact students and families in powerful ways.

The activities and fellowship building further demonstrated the congregation’s understanding of community life. Designed for athletics, gatherings, and events, it featured spaces for basketball, fellowship, and shared meals. It was more than a building—it was a place where relationships would be built and strengthened.

None of this would have been possible without the dedication and generosity of so many. From the architects and builders to members of the congregation who gave their time and resources, this project was truly a labor of love. Special thanks were given to individuals like John Sawyer for his commitment, and to Dr. W. H. Kern and his wife, Iola, for their generous gift of land—an incredible blessing that helped make this vision a reality.

Just a couple of years later, in 1967, the dedication of the church organ added yet another layer to the worship life of St. Matthew. Built by the Fouser Pipe Organ Company, the instrument enhanced the beauty of worship and continues the tradition of lifting voices in praise.

As we reflect on this chapter of our history, we are reminded that those who came before us stepped out in faith. They built not just for their time, but for the future. Today, we are the beneficiaries of that vision and faithfulness.

And just as they once looked ahead with hope, so do we.

As we celebrate 90 years of ministry, we give thanks for the foundation that was laid and the countless lives that have been touched within these walls. May we continue to build—on that same foundation of faith—trusting God to guide us into the future.

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April 1, 2026 • 3 Minute Read
Faith Through the Fire: Building, Betrayal, and Unshakable Trust (1963–1965)
As we continue our walk down memory lane in this 90th anniversary year, we come to one of the most defining chapters in the history of St. Matthew Lutheran Church—a story marked by bold vision, deep trial, and unwavering faith. On November 24, 1963, the congregation took a courageous step forward by partnering with the American Church Finance Company to launch a comprehensive building, financing, and stewardship program. The goal was ambitious: $500,000 to build a new church, school, and fellowship hall on 5.2 acres at Venoy and Beechwood. Over an acre of this land was generously donated by Dr. W. H. Kern and his wife, Iola, a gift that helped make the vision possible. In December of that same year, the congregation purchased a home on Warren Avenue to serve as the new parsonage for Pastor Friedrich and his family, preparing for the next phase of ministry. By April 1, 1964, bond subscriptions began—and in a remarkable act of faith and generosity, the full amount was raised even before construction started. Since not all funds were immediately needed, the congregation agreed to loan $205,000 to a non-profit nursing home in Ohio, with repayment expected within six months. Ministry continued to grow during this time. In the fall of 1964, Rev. Herbert Daenzer began assisting Pastor Friedrich with preaching. Then came a day the congregation would never forget. On May 16, 1965, members gathered one final time at 5900 Middlebelt Road. Following a valedictory devotion, the Elders carried the sacred items from the old church as the congregation processed to their new home at 5885 Venoy Road. There, they entered together for a Service of Dedication, celebrating with worship, meals, and fellowship. The school was dedicated the following week on May 23, completing the new campus. But soon after, an unexpected challenge arose. As the final contractor payment came due, the congregation learned that $111,000 of the loaned funds had not been returned. Further investigation revealed that a large portion of the money had been misused, leaving the loss without recourse. Though shocking and disheartening, the congregation responded with faith—not fear. As Pastor Friedrich shared, “nobody panicked… what this did was solidify the people.” Members sacrificially gave, raising $50,000 toward the loss, with some even donating their bonds back to the building fund. Through God’s guidance and faithful leadership, what could have divided the congregation instead unified and strengthened it. The mission continued, grounded not in circumstances, but in Christ. In time, the Middlebelt property was sold and eventually became the site of today’s Kroger Shopping Center—a reminder of where St. Matthew once stood and how faithfully God has led His people forward. This chapter reminds us: The Church is not built on buildings, but on faith—and God’s faithfulness never fails.

Mr. Dan Burk

Principal

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May 8, 2026 • 4 Minute Read
A Legacy Built in Faith: Remembering Our New Church
As we continue to celebrate our 90th anniversary at St. Matthew, we look back with gratitude on the moments that shaped who we are today. One of those defining moments came on May 16, 1965, with the dedication of what was then our “new church.” What was once new is now part of a rich legacy—a testament to faith, vision, and the blessings of God. At the time, the new church complex was more than just a building—it was a bold step forward in ministry. Situated on a beautiful five-acre wooded property, the campus was thoughtfully designed to serve not only as a place of worship, but as a center for education, fellowship, and community life. The complex included three main parts: the church sanctuary, an educational unit with classrooms and offices, and an activities and fellowship building. Even then, there was a clear vision that St. Matthew would be a place where people could gather, learn, grow, and serve together. The church itself was built with a contemporary design, using natural materials like wood, brick, and fieldstone to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. It was intentionally crafted to reflect both beauty and purpose. The heart of the sanctuary was—and still is—the chancel. With the altar at its center and a large cross rising above it, the design draws the eyes and hearts of worshippers to Christ. The architectural elements, including the seven columns rising behind the chancel, create a sense of reverence and awe, reminding all who enter of God’s presence. Every detail of the space was thoughtfully planned. As you moved away from the chancel, the church widened and rose in height, creating an open and welcoming space for worship. The craftsmanship of the woodwork, including a unique screen made of oak, cherry, and mahogany, added both warmth and character. Even practical elements—like ventilation, lighting, and layout—were carefully considered to support a growing congregation. Beyond the sanctuary, the educational unit reflected a commitment to Christian education that continues to define St. Matthew today. With classrooms ready to serve students and space designed for future growth, it was clear that the congregation saw education as a vital part of its mission. That vision has carried forward through the decades and continues to impact students and families in powerful ways. The activities and fellowship building further demonstrated the congregation’s understanding of community life. Designed for athletics, gatherings, and events, it featured spaces for basketball, fellowship, and shared meals. It was more than a building—it was a place where relationships would be built and strengthened. None of this would have been possible without the dedication and generosity of so many. From the architects and builders to members of the congregation who gave their time and resources, this project was truly a labor of love. Special thanks were given to individuals like John Sawyer for his commitment, and to Dr. W. H. Kern and his wife, Iola, for their generous gift of land—an incredible blessing that helped make this vision a reality. Just a couple of years later, in 1967, the dedication of the church organ added yet another layer to the worship life of St. Matthew. Built by the Fouser Pipe Organ Company, the instrument enhanced the beauty of worship and continues the tradition of lifting voices in praise. As we reflect on this chapter of our history, we are reminded that those who came before us stepped out in faith. They built not just for their time, but for the future. Today, we are the beneficiaries of that vision and faithfulness. And just as they once looked ahead with hope, so do we. As we celebrate 90 years of ministry, we give thanks for the foundation that was laid and the countless lives that have been touched within these walls. May we continue to build—on that same foundation of faith—trusting God to guide us into the future.

Mr. Dan Burk

Principal