For Generations to Come


“We will tell for generations to come the glorious deeds of the LORD, and the wonderful works God has done.” ~Psalm 78:4

Your Partnership Makes The Difference. This campaign is more than a building project—it’s about strengthening our community and enhancing our ability to serve God and one another. Your continued support makes possible:

  • Worship spaces accessible to people of all ages and abilities
  • A building that reflects God’s unconditional love through radical hospitality
  • Flexible spaces for spiritual growth and faith formation

Celebrating Phase 1: Sanctuary Stabilization Complete! Thanks to your extraordinary generosity—$4.1 million in donations and pledges—we have successfully completed Phase 1 of our Capital Campaign. Our historic sanctuary now stands secure with a new steel framework extending from bedrock to the new rafters above. This vital stabilization work ensures our worship space will serve generations to come.

The sanctuary improvements have been thoughtfully integrated, maintaining our beautiful worship environment while creating better accessibility for families, musicians, and those using mobility devices. With comfortable seating for 220 on the main floor and 40 in the balcony, plus 30 additional chairs for overflow seating, we’re ready to welcome all who seek God’s presence.

Phase 2: Creating Accessible, Welcoming Spaces. As we move forward with Phase 2, we remain focused on our mission to create a building that truly serves 21st-century ministry. The Council has approved plans within the remaining $3.3 million budget that prioritize:

Key Phase 2 Components:

  • New Gathering Hall – A welcoming space for fellowship and community connections
  • Elevator Installation – Ensuring full accessibility to almost all levels of our building
  • Accessible Entrances – Creating welcoming, barrier-free entries on the west and south sides
  • Updated Nursery – A safe, comfortable space for our youngest members
  • Renovated Bathrooms – Modern, accessible facilities throughout the building
  • Expanded Classrooms – Enhanced spaces for children’s ministry and faith formation
  • Building-wide Fire Suppression System – Ensuring safety for all who enter our doors

Anticipated Construction Timeline:

  • January 2026: Interior construction and remodeling begins
  • March 2026: Exterior construction work commences
  • Summer 2026: Project completion targeted

Celebrating 150 Years: Sanctuary Enhancements. In perfect timing for our building’s 150th anniversary in 2026, we’re also completing sanctuary improvements including:

  • State-of-the-art sound system for crystal-clear spoken word
  • Improved livestreaming capabilities to reach those unable to attend in person
  • New seating that matches our historic pews while improving comfort and flexibility

These enhancements ensure our worship space will inspire and welcome all who enter.

Join Us In Building For Generations To Come. As we prepare for construction, we invite your continued partnership. Whether through prayer, financial support, or volunteer service, every contribution helps create a church home that will serve God’s mission for the next 150 years.

These enhancements ensure our worship space will inspire and welcome all who To learn more or contribute to the campaign, contact Pastor Mike Wilker.


First Lutheran Church has been a cornerstone of the Decorah community since 1863. Our iconic building, constructed in 1876, continues to evolve to meet the needs of each new generation while remaining a beacon of God’s love and welcome for all.