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WELCOME to a great story about the people of God in a place called Gloria DeiI  Inside the pages of this book, you will disvover the unfolding account of God's grace shaping the 100 year history of this congregation.  With the vision and leadership of countless saints, Gloria Dei has grown from a mission conrgegation formed out of the hopes and dreams of First Lutheran Church into a vibrant caring, healing and welcoming community solidly grounded in God's abundant grace!

How does one recount the history of a community of faith?  We might thing of the landmark events that have captured significant moments in time and moved this community from its past into the future.  And we might also think about the buildings and landscapes that have housed this congregation opening doors to all people who seek sanctuary and a growing relationship with their God and with one another.  After all, it is the heart of a community that faith is truly challenged and encouraged to grow. But above all, it is the gift of God's people working together shaping the missionand ministry that best tells the story of the life of this congregation giving glory to God!

I invite you to take in the history of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church not as an accounting of years and accomplishments, but as another wonderful sign of God's spirit breathing life and hope into a people called together to be signs of God's grace.  Gloria Dei has been richly bless with resources to accomplish many things. We are proud of our past, and we are challenged by the future.

It is the rhythm of life that God has established in us and for us that now grounds us in what has been and opens us to what lies ahead.

By God's grace, for 100 years the vision of Christ as servant and Lord has led us in our journey to this place and time.  Having come "This Far By Grace" we are confident that God will continue to accompany is in the next 100 years of mission and ministry as the people of God who seek to proclaim the love of Jesus Christ in the world.  And for all that has been and all that is yet to be, we give thanks.

Rev. M. Susan Peterson
Senior Pastor