About

Who We Are

First Immanuel Lutheran Church is a community of faith in Northwest Portland, rooted in the good news of Jesus Christ and the grace of God.

As a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), we are a people who gather for worship, grow in faith, care for one another, and join in God’s work in the world.

We are also a community of people at different places in life and faith. Some have been here for generations. Others are new to church or are still figuring out what they believe. We value honest questions, thoughtful conversation, joyful worship, and the relationships that grow when we share life together.

What We Believe

At the heart of our faith is the good news that God’s love is a gift—not something we earn. In Jesus Christ, God comes to us with grace, forgiveness, and new life.

As Lutherans, we are shaped by Scripture, gathered around Word and Sacrament, and sent into the world to love and serve our neighbors.

What Matters to Us

Worship
We gather around God’s Word, share in the sacraments, sing, pray, and celebrate God’s presence among us.

Community
Church is more than Sunday morning. We build friendships, care for one another, learn together, and share the joys and challenges of life.

Welcome
We believe God’s table is a place of welcome and belonging. We want people to know that they are seen, valued, and welcome here.

Service
God’s love sends us beyond ourselves. We look for ways to serve our neighbors, our community, and the wider world.

Our Story

First Immanuel has been part of Portland’s story since 1879. Founded by Swedish Lutheran immigrants, our congregation has continued to grow and change while remaining rooted in the Lutheran tradition.

Today, we are grateful for the generations who have shaped this community—and excited about where God is leading us next.

[Learn more about our history →]

Life at First Immanuel

There are many ways to connect at First Immanuel: Sunday worship, music, education and faith formation, fellowship, service opportunities, community events, and simply spending time together.

You don’t have to know anyone or have everything figured out before you come. Just come as you are.

There Is a Place for You Here

Whether you are looking for a church home, returning to church, exploring faith, or simply curious about who we are, we invite you to get to know us.

Come worship with us. Ask questions. Meet some people. See what you think.

We’d love to welcome you.