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Messiah Lutheran Church
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This folder contains a congregational historical record, a booklet from the 50th anniversary, a 60th anniversary booklet, a 1975 directory, various letters, a letter of call, owner's earnest money receipt, notes from a 1975 meeting, articles of declaration, council minutes from 1975, financial report for 1975, message regarding the sale of the Messiah church building in 1975, a copy of a resolution from 1975, options and course of action memorandum 1975, meeting notes from a congregational meeting in 1976, a 1976 and 1974 annual report, AMR Lutheran Ministries report of an Evaluation Study, Packet for Finnish Easter Service/Installation of Atso Eerikainen 1996, church history written in 1995, installation of Paavo Hautala 1991 program, and newspaper clippings.
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General note
Messiah Lutheran Church in Portland was formed when a group of Finnish immigrants decided unanimously at a meeting on September 7, 1902 to organize a congregation. Little by little the horizons broadened and the main language of activities was changed to English. The oldest church facility was purchased in 1914 at North Kerby and Fargo Streets, was used until 1952. The next church was built on North Commercial. After 26 years this building was sold and a new building, originally used as office premises, was purchased in 1978. It was remodeled, enlarged, and dedicated in 1983. The congregational life of Messiah has seen times of strength and weakness. One special period was being part of a church cluster with Augustana and Redeemer Lutheran Church (1972-1975). At the end of that time the congregation was given four alternatives: merge, relocate, continue, or disband. The congregation voted to relocate and continue. Since 1982 the Finnish School has also used the church for its activities.