In 1952 the site for a new church on Manville Road was purchased and plans were underway. This site was the only land big enough for a church left in Pleasantville. The price was $7,000. Messers Stromer and Tichenor met with the seller, Mr. Doherty and after several meetings, they shook hands, one on top of another, and that made a binding contract.

The first step was to build a parsonage, which was completed on Arthur Avenue in Thornwood. This was accomplished with volunteer work and donations. Breaking of the ground for the church took place on May 9th, 1954 and the structure was completed on March 1955.  The first service in the new structure was conducted by Dr. Evald B. Lawson, President of Upsal College.  Membership was at 175.  It wasn’t long until the congregation felt the need to expand.

In 1956 Pastor John Pearson began his ministry at Emanuel. In 1959 and 1960 plans were made to expand the building. The building committee under Mr. Dominico Annese drew up plans and in June 1964 ground breaking services were conducted. The service of dedication for the present worship area, offices and educational units was in September of 1965.

In July of 1955 purchased a house on Manville Road, not far from the church as the parsonage. The house had been built in 1924 by Oscar Bergmark, son of a member of the congregation. The Thornwood parsonage was then sold. 

In 1956 membership was 205. By 1968, parish statistics numbered 644 confirmed and 300 baptized members. 

In 1975 the numbers had swelled to 700 confirmed and 300 additional baptized members. There was a carol choir and a children’s choir. The senior choir of more than 40 members under the direction of Ron Dunn sang regularly. The Emanuel band performed several times a year with more than 35 members. The bell choirs started in 1973. The Katy Club for singles and couples met once a month for social and other types of programs. The Senior Luther League of High School and Post High School age students was very active, as well as the Junior Luther league. A group of retired men organized the GOTHEM “Get Out To Help Emanuel Men.” Sunday School directed by Eleanor Swanson involved more than 200 children and 20 men and women who were teachers and helpers.

Coming Soon: Part 3: 1975 to the Present

 
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