St. Paul’s Lutheran Church located at 2009 South Garfield Avenue in Monterey Park celebrated their 100th anniversary on May 18. The Church is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

Pastor R. Sheldon Hess and the Centennial Planning Team invited longtime members to join with current members at this wonderful celebration.

The Welcoming Committee invited everyone to join them in the Meeting Room to enjoy the many pictures, documents and memories on display that tracked the 100- year history of the church.  Two displays tracing the church timelines were also available for review.

Wood carved pictures of St. Paul and Martin Luther created by Ken Fiebelkorn were proudly displayed on the wall for all to see. The Fiebelkorn Family is well known in Monterey Park.

Giulio Baruini, Pat Haar, Jo Anne Mitchell, Millie Powell and Susan Ramirez led the 200 plus congregation in the songs of the day.

Pastor Hess welcomed everyone to this special 100th anniversary celebration.

Bishop R. Guy Erwin was the guest speaker. He spoke about his great pleasure to be here today to at the celebration of the church’s 100th anniversary. He explained the shepherd’s crook to the children. He also addressed the adults and read from the Gospel of John.

Pastor Shel Hess and Bishop Guy Erwin visited with church members after the service.

A delicious Mediterranean luncheon was served to all of the guests.  Daves Deli Catering located at 213 S. Mednik Avenue in nearby Los Angeles catered the meal.

The tables were decorated with fruit baskets created by Carol Sullivan.

Armen Sebastian, husband of Councilmembers Teresa Real Sebastian, presented Pastor Shel Hess with a proclamation from the City Council for their long time support of the community.

Linda Wilson presented a proclamation to Pastor Shel Hess on behalf of Family Promise for supporting their cause.

Council President Ed Sais and Pastor Shel Hess took turns cutting into the beautiful birthday cake.

Don Haar, a member of the congregation, recalled the past history of the various church functions that included youth programs, Easter Breakfasts, a 4th of July fireworks stand and more. He said that this church was a great place to be brought up in. He hopes the new families have as much fun at this church as he did.