Our Story
1973
The first worship service was led by Alaska Missionary David Zietlow of Anchorage on March 3rd - 22 souls were present. The following summer, Vicar Keith Kuschel arrived from Anchorage to do exploratory work in Fairbanks.
1974
Pastor Norbert Meier accepted the call to be Syndoulos’ first pastor.
1975
Syndoulos Evangelical Lutheran Church of Fairbanks, Alaska officially organized on May 18th, with a total of 54 souls. Members chose the name Syndoulos for their congregation, a Greek word meaning “fellow servant.” The name not only identified them but also their purpose: to SERVE CHRIST TOGETHER in Fairbanks and throughout the world.
In the coming years, Syndoulos began to establish their roots...
Dec. 16, 1975
Purchased current property on Geist Rd.
July 5, 1976
Construction began on parsonage, where services were held while the church building was being constructed. Services had previously been conducted at Chapel of Chimes Funeral Home on Illinois Street and the Seventh Day Adventist Church on Farmers Loop.
Aug. 28, 1978
Excavation for the new church building began.
July 1, 1979
The newly finished church building was dedicated.
On March 25, 2012, the congregation made history as they voted to change their name from Syndoulos to Light of the World Evangelical Lutheran Church. The name change became official on May 20th as the congregation re-dedicated themselves and the church to carry out the work of the Lord as his lights of the world.