1884

St. Paul's Lutheran Church was founded in Durango, Colorado. It was the 4th organized Lutheran Church of the Western District in the state of Colorado.

Black and white photo of a small wooden church with a bell tower, in a rural area with sparse bushes and trees, and a hillside with houses in the background.

1890

The first church building was constructed in Durango in 1890 on East 4th. Ave.

Black and white photo of a small church building with a sign indicating its name as Church of Christ and service times. The church has a steep roof and a tree casting a shadow on the facade. The ground is partly covered with snow, and there are trees in the background. Text at the bottom reads: '4th Ave. Church - present day.'

1892

The first parochial school was founded in 1892, which is the same year the congregation voted to join the Missouri Synod.

A metallic decorative object with a heart-shaped cutout featuring a cross and the letter 'i', embedded in a floral-shaped design.

1953

St. Paul’s Lutheran Church renovated and remodeled in the fall of 1953.

1961

The congregation remained in the 4th Ave. location until it built a new church on the present day location in 1961.

A church building with modern and stone architectural features, a large cross to the right, and a clear sky background.

1971

The church was burned to the ground by an arsonist in October, 1971.

Interior of a church with wooden walls and large windows showing a mountain landscape, altar with two lit candles, flowers in vases, and crosses.

1973

The church was rebuilt and dedicated in September, 1973.

A group of men standing outside in front of a new church building, dressed in mid-20th century suits, celebrating the cornerstone laying ceremony on September 30, 1973. The men include John Koosmnan, Mick, Pastor Bergmann, Bob Boucher, Al Murdock, Gene Endorf, and Emmett Olbert.

1980

A 2,000 sq. foot addition was added to the church in the 1980's.

Interior of a church decorated for Christmas with an illuminated cross on the stone wall at the altar, a Christmas tree with ornaments, and lit candles.

2006

Another addition was added to the church in 2006.

The exterior of St. Pauls Lutheran Church with a brick and stucco facade, arched windows, a small bell tower, and surrounded by tall trees on a sunny day.

2026

The most recent renovation is all about the people.

People seated in a church sanctuary during a service, with a large illuminated cross and stone fireplace at the front. Green banners with Greek letters and symbols decorate the altar area.