View more images for the Lutheran Church of Guam entry here.

History in Guam

The Lutheran Church of Guam was established in 1969 and is supported by the Lutheran Church in America and the Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod. The church first came to Guam in 1963 as the Lutheran Serviceman’s Center with a congregation consisting mainly of military personnel. While the congregation continues to reach out to the military population and their families today, the church is a primarily local congregation. The Lutheran Church of Guam is an affiliate of the Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ since 2009.

The Lutheran Church

Lutherans follow the 16th century, Bible-based teachings of Martin Luther. Luther, an Augustinian monk pursuing a doctorate in theology, challenged the differences he noted between the Bible and Catholic practices. On 31 October 1517 Luther posted his challenge on the door of Wittenberg University to debate ninety-five theological topics, with the hope that the Catholic Church would reform its teachings. What ensued instead was a complete separation, with followers of Luther calling themselves Lutherans.

Luther’s teachings can be summarized in three phrases:

  • Grace alone
  • Faith alone
  • Scripture alone

We are saved alone by God’s grace alone; Our salvation is through faith alone; and the Bible is the only true standard by which teachings and doctrines are to be judged.

Worship and Ministries

Sean Patrick currently serves as the pastor of the Lutheran Church of Guam. Traditional services are held on Sundays at 9:30 am. Contemporary services are held on Sundays at 10:30 am. Services are also held live on Facebook at Lutheran Church Guam.

The church also offers several classes – Vacation Bible school, Confirmation classes, Adult Bible Studies, and First Holy Communion classes. Sunday school for all ages, including adults, is available from September through May.

The church also operates a preschool as an outreach ministry. The Tender Shepherd Preschool is open to children ages two through four.

By Vanessa Estella, MA

For further reading

Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. “History.”

Lutheran Church of Guam. “Lutheran Church of Guam’s Facebook Page.” Facebook.

–––. ”We’re not just for Lutherans!” Last modified 31 May 2021.

Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC). “Homepage.”

The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod. “Beliefs and Practice.” Last modified 16 April 2021.