About Zion
Welcome to Zion Lutheran Church, a community rooted in Christ and dedicated to sharing God’s grace across generations. For well over a century, our congregation in Embarrass, Wisconsin, has gathered to worship, grow in faith, and serve our neighbors both locally and across the globe.
Our Roots: A Century of Grace
Zion’s story began in the late 1880s when German settlers moving into the Embarrass area sought a local place to worship. In August 1888, a small group of local residents set out to establish a neighborhood church. By November 13, 1888, the congregation was officially organized as part of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod.
-
First Church Home: The charter members quickly built a simple rectangular church building, which was dedicated on the first Sunday of December 1888.
-
Early Ministry: In the early decades, services were conducted entirely in German, and the church regularly hosted a parochial school to provide Christian instruction to local children.
-
Transition to English: Services gradually transitioned from German to English under the long-standing leadership of Rev. Walter List, who served the congregation for 31 years.
Building for the Future
As the congregation expanded, so did the need for a modern facility. In April 1970, the decision was made to build a brand-new house of worship.
The New Sanctuary
On October 8, 1972, Zion formally dedicated its current building, featuring historical elements like the original bell and stained glass integrated into a new, expanded space.
Expanding Ministry
In 1998, a major addition was voted on to provide a new conference room, a secretary's office, an elevator, and a lower-level youth center and chapel.
Physical Upgrades
The physical property has continued to evolve over the years, including the addition of a beautiful white steeple in 2004, new colored glass window overlays in 2007, and sanctuary air conditioning in 2022.
Our Life in Christ Today
Today, Zion continues to move forward with a vibrant ministry that emphasizes active worship, fellowship, and a strong heart for missions. Under the leadership of Pastor Todd Jerabek, our congregation remains deeply connected to both our local neighbors and the global church.
Through the dedicated work of the Christian Women of Zion, our church family stays connected with the broader community by hosting beloved annual traditions like the "Pig 'n' Polka Picnic" and community soup dinners. We also embrace modern outreach; our digital video ministry allows us to record and broadcast our services online, ensuring that shut-ins, nursing home residents, and remote members can always worship alongside us.
Beyond the borders of Embarrass, Zion’s passion for the Gospel takes on a truly global impact. We actively support international mission fields, a commitment highlighted by our direct ties to global pastoral education—including Pastor Jerabek’s opportunity to serve as a guest seminary professor in Nigeria.
Quick Links
Follow
Location
118 Church St., Embarrass, WI, United States, 54933
Contact
(715) 823-3889