Zion Lutheran Church Celebration of 75 Years in Historic Building, May 3–4, 2025
- jdelrosario5
- 12 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Zion Lutheran Church, SW 18th Ave. and SW Salmon St., is a Portland Historic Landmark and on the National Register of Historic Places. In May of 1950, Zion opened its doors as the first modern style church in Portland, and seven thousand attended the event. Even in 1964, the church was still unique and a twelve-foot-high photo of it was exhibited to the World's Fair in Belgium.
On Saturday May 3, 2025, Zion Lutheran Church will host a 75th Anniversary open house of the Pietro Belluschi designed house of worship. The general public is invited to this celebration of Zion's appreciation of their special sanctuary. This is a unique opportunity to experience the inspiration of a Belluschi sacred space, as Belluschi himself said “... space that is more than a shelter, space that gives a hint of other more satisfying purposes.”
Acoustics in Belluschi designed churches and music venues are highly praised, including at Alice Tully Hall at The Juilliard School. For this celebration, in addition to remarks, attendees will be treated to an organ recital by Zion organist Floy Berentsen.
The presentations on May 3 include remarks from Pastor Jim Pressnell and Brian Fleener, an architect congregant, about the congregations' appreciation for the building and its beauty; and an overview from Tony Belluschi about his father’s love of church architecture and his ability to convince the Zion congregation to look to the future by embracing the elegant simplicity of Mid-Century Modern designs while still maintaining their traditional symbols. A reception will follow with display of original blueprints and other memorabilia.
On Sunday May 4, a festive worship service will follow the 1950 dedication liturgy with guest preacher Rev. Dr. Paul Linnemann, President Emeritus Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Northwest District.
There are no fees for these events. Please join in sharing the joy and history of this significant spiritual space and its importance to Portland. An e-booklet describing the church is available—request at zion@zion-portland.org.
75th Anniversary Celebration
Zion Lutheran Church, 1015 SW 18th Avenue, Portland,
May 3, 2025, open house and presentations starting at 2pm.
May 4, 2025, festive worship starting at 10:45
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