After 78 years, Glendale Lutheran Church may be closing its doors (and huge pipe organ) on April 23

Glendale Lutheran Church in Burien is facing closure after 78 years, with a final worship service scheduled for April 23, 2023. The church's leadership has made the difficult decision to sell the property, which features one of the largest pipe organs on the West Coast. Once a thriving community with about 1,600 members, attendance has recently plummeted to around 20, prompting the decision to close. The church hopes that the property will be purchased by another congregation rather than a developer. In a letter to members, Pastor Jim Kruse emphasized the importance of community participation in the closing discussions, which have been ongoing since early March.

The church, established in 1944, has a legacy of community service, including the first food bank in the area and support for Vietnamese refugee families. As they prepare for closure, church leaders remain committed to ensuring that Glendale School continues to receive support. Conversations are ongoing about the future of the property and its role in the community.