Who We Are

Grace Lutheran is a vibrant & growing congregation in the heart of Ada, MN. We seek to provide ministries relevant to all ages and walks of life. We see ourselves as messengers of God’s good news in both our words, but even more so in our actions. As you look through the different ministries here at Grace Lutheran please let us know if you have any questions or wish to get involved. All are welcome in this place of Grace in the Red River Valley!

Mission Statement

Guided by God's Word and Grace;
Received into Christ through baptism;
Anchored in the Gospel to be Christ's ambassadors;
Called as a community to serve God in the world:
Empowered, enlightened, equipped to share God's love.

Long History of Ministry

Grace Lutheran was founded in 1878 and has continued to be a vibrant part of the Ada Community for many years. We have had many wonderful pastors and other ministry staff over the years. We hope to continue to be a vital ministry many years in to the future.

Where did we come from?

Grace Lutheran's origin began with the Lutheran congregations of Our Savior's, established in the fall 1880 and Trinity established in 1887. These two churches merged in 1921 to become First Lutheran. Over time other Lutheran churches in the area closed and many of their members joined the First Lutheran congregation. These churches include Zion (no connection to the present Missouri Synod Zion) and Scandia Lutheran. In 1964, First Lutheran and Petri Lutheran established in 1878 joined the congregations forming Grace Lutheran.

Grace Today

Grace is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). The current church building was built in 1948. Over the years the building has been well maintained, enhanced, and upgraded to ensure worship is a calm and visually meaningful experience. The building is handicap accessible. In 1956 a parish education building was erected with classrooms for Sunday School, church offices, a Youth Room and Petri Chapel which includes the altar from the old Petri Lutheran church.

The original parsonage built in 1938 was replaced in 2010 with a modern parsonage designed to meet the needs of today's family.

Our Staff

Jack Carlson - Pastor

Amy Traut - Office Mgr

Dale Andersen - Custodial Engineer

Brenda Wagner - Director of Christian Education

Liz Vaughn - Financial Secretary 

Grace Lutheran Church is a proud member of the Northwestern Minnesota Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.