Gruetli Church

St. Luke’s United Church of Christ, located in Columbus, NE, is a welcoming congregation rooted in the United Church of Christ tradition. Founded in 1872, the church offers Sunday services at 8:00 a.m. at Gruetli Church and 10:00 a.m. at its main campus at 1072 21st Ave. The church is known for its inclusive community, outreach programs like Loaves and Fishes, and a long history of service and spiritual growth.

St. Luke’s United Church of Christ is a congregation with deep roots in the United Church of Christ tradition, tracing its origins back to 1872 when it was founded as a German Reform church by early settlers in Columbus, Nebraska. The church officially joined the United Church of Christ in 1957 and continues to serve the community with a welcoming and inclusive spirit. St. Luke’s UCC offers Sunday worship services at two locations: 8:00 a.m. at Gruetli Church and 10:00 a.m. at its main campus at 1072 21st Ave. Services are also broadcast online and on local radio station KTLX 91.3.

The church is actively involved in outreach initiatives, including the Loaves and Fishes Gathering on the first Sunday of each month, where non-perishable food and supplies are collected for those in need. Outreach also includes hosting Bingo at a local nursing home and supporting the St. Labre Indian School through the Box Tops for Education program.

St. Luke’s is home to the Rainbow Preschool, which provides early childhood education in a Christian environment. The church also supports Kamp Kaleo, a Christ-centered summer camp for youth and families. St. Luke’s History details the congregation’s evolution from a German Evangelical Protestant church to its current identity as a United Church of Christ congregation.

The church is known for its warm community and welcoming atmosphere, as reflected in visitor reviews. Contact information is available for those interested in connecting or attending services.

St. Luke’s United Church of Christ in Columbus, NE, blends historical tradition with a welcoming modern community. First-time visitors may appreciate the dual Sunday service locations (including Gruetli Church), inclusive atmosphere, and outreach initiatives like the Loaves and Fishes food drive. The congregation’s long-standing commitment to spiritual growth and service is evident in its active preschool, summer camp, and community partnerships.

Pros

• Welcoming and inclusive atmosphere with a strong emphasis on community outreach.
• Clear Sunday service times at two locations (8:00 a.m. at Gruetli Church and 10:00 a.m. at the main campus).
• Family-friendly ministries including Rainbow Preschool and Kamp Kaleo summer camp.
• Accessible worship options via online broadcasts and local radio (KTLX 91.3).
• Active community programs like Loaves and Fishes food drives and Bingo events at local nursing homes.
• Historical significance with roots dating back to 1872, preserved in well-maintained facilities.