Gethsemane Votes to Close

Manchester, NH—The Church Council of Gethsemane Evangelical Lutheran Church, 65 Sagamore Street, Manchester, released the following statement on January   :

                  “After great thought and prayer, the Gethsemane Evangelical Church congregation voted that to close on May 18th 2025.  Gethsemane, a congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) has existed at its location on Sagamore Street in Manchester since the 1880’s, when a group of Swedish immigrant workers from the Amoskeag Mills constructed its church on land donated by the Amoskeag Company.  It has proclaimed the Gospel of Jesus Christ in that location continuously since its founding.

                  “Services were held in Swedish until the early 1950’s, when English became the language used.  In recent years, declining membership, increased expenses and the dispersal of families has led to the decision to close.

                  “Services will continue this winter and spring, under the direction of Interim Pastor Don Larsen, with a Service of Celebration for the congregation, community and fellow worshiping communities to be held on May 4th, and a final service for the congregation only on May 18th.  Specific times will be announced.

                  “The real estate of the congregation has been listed for sale, and closure is being coordinated with the New England Synod of the ELCA.”

                  Anyone wishing more information can contact the church office at (603) 623-3451.