Our History

Establishment and Early Growth (2009-2011)

Christ the Victor inaugurated its initial service at the old 84 Lumber building on December 13, 2009, drawing a crowd of 102 attendees. Many present were Victory Lutheran Church members, who came to show their support. Don Thompson, our first pastor, emerged from retirement to spearhead the church’s establishment and remained with us for six months. Despite lacking a permanent pastor until January 2011, Christ the Victor remained active, hosting Sunday School, Women’s Ministry, Vacation Bible School, Craft Fair, Food Pantry, and Habitat for Humanity initiatives.

Growth and Leadership Stability (2011-2014)

Moreover, in January 2011, Pastor Charles Newman joined as our part-time pastor, introducing consistency and on-site leadership. By March 2013, he transitioned into a full-time role. Under his guidance, additional ministries flourished, including a choir, men’s breakfast, women’s retreat, a book club, and regular Bible studies, alongside welcoming a non-denominational church for Saturday afternoon services.

Transition and Consolidation (2014-2021)

In June 2014, Pastor Larry Kassebaum assigned Pastor Bruce Lerum from Victory Lutheran to Christ the Victor for a year, injecting fresh perspectives into our congregation. Pastor Bruce invigorated our community, actively listening to concerns and visiting members in their homes. The Council responded to a request supported by church member signatures, and Victory Lutheran voted in December 2014 to make Pastor Bruce’s assignment to Christ the Victor permanent. Subsequently, Christ the Victor became an autonomous congregation of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC). On June 13, 2021, Pastor Bruce retired, and on August 16, 2021, Pastor Mark Neumann assumed the role of Interim Pastor.

Continuation and New Leadership (2021-2022)

During the interim period, Pastor Mark Chase answered the call to become Christ the Victor’s new full-time pastor, commencing his service on August 16, 2022.

Ongoing Growth and Blessings

Throughout the years, God has continued to shower us with blessings! We witness growth across all facets of our ministry, including worship services, Sunday School, Confirmation programs, Bible studies, small groups, and community Food Pantry. On average, our Food Pantry extends assistance to over 1,000 people monthly! We remain humbled by the Lord’s work among us and pray for the courage to tread whatever path He sets before us! We invite you to join us and experience firsthand that “God is good, all the time!”