Our Story

As we look back at the humble beginnings of St. John’s Lutheran Church, we reflect on the tremendous growth and abundant blessings it has experienced in its first 100 years. Beginning early in 1901, with 25 in attendance, worship was led in the German language by Rev. S. Hoernicke, visiting pastor from Immanuel Lutheran Church of Fresno. In the fall of 1902, Rev. R.M. Norden was placed as the first resident Lutheran Missionary in Bakersfield. The Rev. C.F. Bauer was sent to Bakersfield in the fall of 1903, and St. John’s was formally organized in January 1904 with 12 charter members.
Moving forward 100 years...
On the tenth day of the tenth month of the tenth year of the century (10-10-2010), St. John's congregation began worshipping in our current facilities.  Our state of the art Worship Center has theater seating for 850, advanced audio/video capacity with five large screens (80' X 12'), and stage and backstage areas for major events such as concerts and conferences in addition to our Christmas dramas and contemporary Sunday worship. Our Sanctuary is an intimate setting acoustically designed for organ, choir, orchestra, and congregational singing. Adorned with a beautiful stained glass windows, and unique altar furnishings, it is a delightful room for our traditional worship, weddings, and choir and musical presentations.