Our Story

Your life and your story have value, because you were created by God. That’s why your story matters to us - and ultimately, why it matters so much to God.

A Legacy of Faithfulness

We are not a church that only exists “in this city,” we are a church that exists “for this city.” Jesus loves our community - and so do we - and we will always be a church where Jesus is for all people. Our story is the story of God at work among us to bring life and salvation to those in need.

Our Church
Our Church

In 1855, a group of 13 families from the community of Plymouth began to hold monthly worship services. We met in school buildings and in farm houses until a church building of our own could be constructed. We were supported by other congregations until we could grow large enough to support ourselves. The pastor rode in a horse and buggy to visit people living in the area. We spoke German and were originally known as Evangelische-Lutherische St. Johannes Gemeinde.

So much has changed. And so much has stayed the same. Thousands have called downtown Plymouth their spiritual home as, together, we proclaim God’s Word and reach out into the community with service and love.

Our School
Our School

Since 1864, we have committed ourselves to nurture and grow generations of Christian leaders. From a one-room schoolhouse to a large student body – Our Lutheran School provides a safe and loving Christian atmosphere to children in PreK 3 through 8th Grade with extended Child Care.

We partner with families to provide our students with a strong spiritual and academic foundation giving the advantages they need to succeed in high school, college and beyond. Each child is a precious gift from God, is loved and respected by our staff, and is blessed by our Lord who teaches us each day.

School Tagline & Motto: Learning for Life + Living for Christ

Classes, Retreats, and More
Classes, Retreats, and More

From 2006 to 2020, we owned the Tree of Life Retreat Center. Located about six miles from downtown Plymouth on a seven-acre site in the Kettle Moraine area, we provided opportunities for learning, reflection and small group ministry. The Tree of Life Retreat has had a rich history of providing life-changing encounters with the living God for people all ages.

Since 2007, we have intentionally partnered with families to strengthen and support marriages, parents and children. Through educational classes, marriage retreats, small group bible studies and other opportunities, families grow strong in the Lord.

In 2015, we brought in a missionary-at-large to work among Sheboygan County’s growing Hispanic community. Lord willing, new congregations will be established and many more will come to know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

In the Community
In the Community

From one generation to the next, we have responded to the amazing blessings of the Lord, possessed a consistent willingness to take risks, and have boldly lived out the faith of Jesus Christ. From living rooms to classrooms – from farms to office buildings – We share God’s story in our local community and throughout the world.

At St. John Lutheran, you’ll notice our contagious spirit – responding to the Lord in very generous ways. We are committed to needs beyond our own. We step up to serve. We give of our financial resources. We welcome and pray together. We share in each other’s lives – always pointing to God’s story of life and salvation.

We’re your neighbors and friends, teachers and students, and we’re here to see lives transformed.