Welcome to our new site! Peace of the Lord be with you!
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 our congregation our church family stays connected with the broader community events. 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