The Racial Transition of Emmaus Lutheran Church of Chicago, Illinois

Abstract

This paper by Theodore G. Bodjanac chronicles the racial transition of Emmaus Lutheran Church in Chicago from its founding in 1888 as a German-speaking Missouri Synod congregation to its present identity as an all-Black member of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod (ELS). The essay highlights pivotal moments, including the leadership of Pastor Carl Rusch, whose ministry helped break down racial barriers and foster outreach to the surrounding Black community. Through interviews and historical records, Bodjanac illustrates how Emmaus adapted to demographic shifts, overcame prejudice, and remained faithful to its Gospel mission. The congregation’s withdrawal from the Missouri Synod in 1962 and eventual affiliation with the ELS in 1986 marked significant theological and cultural milestones. Despite changes in membership and neighborhood, Emmaus continues to proclaim the unchanging message of Christ. The essay affirms that the Gospel transcends racial divisions and flourishes wherever God’s Word is faithfully shared. Generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)