History and Values

 INCEPTION

 St. Luke Presbyterian Church began organizing in the fall of 1960.  Directed by the Presbytery of the Redwoods, the effort was led by an initial nine families who had a vision for a new church to serve the people in "eastern" San Rafael with a focus on worship for the whole family, with children's programs that were sadly lacking in the local faith community.  With dedication and strength during what all discovered was the long and arduous task of establishing a new church, a blessed breakthrough came when the young Church was offered and acquired its current beautiful site overlooking the Bay in June, 1961.  Donald Powers Smith, a renowned church architect was commissioned to develop a site plan.  In September, 1963, the Reverend Henry Kent was invited to become the congregation's supply pastor to lead the initial ninety members of the St. Luke community.  Services were held in a cottage on the property, with Sunday school classes held in a tent nearby pending the construction of a permanent worship place. 

The sanctuary was opened October 10, 1965 with a service of dedication to the honor of God's most Holy Name.  The litany from that day sets forth the faith of the congregation:

WE DEDICATE THIS HOUSE:

For the Worship of Thy Holy Name,

For the ministry of the Word,

For the administration of the Sacraments,

For comfort to those who mourn,

For help to those who are tempted,

For strength to those who are weak,

For the sanctification of the family,

For the guidance of childhood,

For the summoning of youth to a life of service,

For sympathy and fellowship with the needy,

For brotherhood with all men,

For the unity of all believers in Christ,

For fostering civic righteousness,

For aggression against evil,

For promotion of peace and justice on earth.

FOUNDING VALUES 

With these lofty ideals, St. Luke was off to a rousing start.  The founders' initial vision was a reality, as St. Luke had an active children's and youth ministry, and teaching the Word to young people was an important part of the Church's mission, particularly since the local area was full of young families.  Dedicated members showed their faith by creating beautiful seasonal banners which still adorn our church.  The music program was strong, with adult and children's choirs, and an active bell choir.  An involved women's association was an active spiritual and financial force, and St. Luke began a tradition of involvement in both local and foreign mission projects.  Perhaps most important were the sustaining values of St. Luke:  a place all may feel welcome (hence the motto "the friendly church on the hill"), an acceptance of a diversity of opinion, and a more traditional worship setting which members felt best assisted their individual spiritual growth.