Mount Olive, St. Paul, Minn.

Enhancement: Mount Olive is a historic congregation located between downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minn., in a highly populated urban neighborhood. With a debt-free facility and a creative, mission-minded core group, Mount Olive is uniquely positioned to serve as a healthy WELS presence in the urban core. Lay leaders have long been involved with other WELS churches, including a Merge for Mission effort, while continuing to invest locally in worship, children’s ministry, and community engagement. This enhancement grant will support a full-time pastor who will build on existing momentum as Mount Olive grows as a vibrant city church reaching people across the Twin Cities.

Fast facts:

  • Mount Olive is in the Midway area of St. Paul, with an identified mission field of approximately 100,000 people and proximity to major universities, cultural centers, and residential neighborhoods.
  • The congregation already owns a debt‑free, well‑maintained facility, providing a strong platform for worship, community gatherings, and outreach ministry.
  • A committed core group of 30+ leaders and volunteers have continued to lead worship, small groups, children’s ministry, and outreach during their pastoral vacancy.

Prayer: 

Gracious Lord, we thank you for the mission enhancement at Mount Olive in St. Paul and for the vision you have given them to serve as a vibrant city church in the Twin Cities. Bless their outward‑facing focus as they foster a culture of invitation and personal evangelism, empowering them to share your gospel with confidence and love. Make their church a welcoming hub for the community and let their members shine as faithful lights of hope and mercy in their neighborhood. Guide their leaders and congregation to remain mission‑driven, faithfully investing in the next generation and reaching those who have not yet heard your saving truth in the urban core. May this work bear lasting fruit for your kingdom and bring glory to your holy name. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

Contact:

Mr. Jacob Swogger, Church President
jswogger@gmail.com
612-801-6609