The story of Bethany Lutheran Church begins on a significant day in Vacaville’s history—October 26, 1952—when Pastor T.B. Gohlke, then serving at Trinity Lutheran in Fairfield, led the first Lutheran service in town. In the humble setting of the Legion Hall, 52 faithful souls gathered, marking the birth of what would soon become a vibrant congregation. Fueled by faith and a shared mission, the group quickly expanded, organizing Sunday School and continuing regular services. What began as a small gathering soon blossomed into a movement of dedicated individuals determined to establish a lasting Lutheran presence in Vacaville.
By July 27, 1953, this dedicated congregation had formally organized as Bethany Lutheran Church, joining the California-Nevada District of The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. With their numbers steadily growing, it wasn’t long before the Legion Hall could no longer contain their growing church family. In 1954, ten generous members came together to donate enough money for a down payment on land that would eventually become the permanent home of Bethany Lutheran. With unwavering faith, volunteer labor, and financial support from the District, construction on the original church building began in 1955 and was completed in 1956. It was a labor of love—a symbol of the congregation’s deep commitment to their faith and each other.
The following decades were marked by incredible growth and progress. In 1961, Bethany took a major step forward by becoming self-sustaining, no longer needing mission church support. The church continued to flourish, adding an education building in 1965 and opening a preschool in 1974. The current church building, a beautiful testament to the congregation’s faith, was completed in 1977, providing a new space for worship and community.
Bethany’s vision didn’t stop there. In 1988, the church purchased adjoining property and expanded its Early Childhood Education program to include extended daycare. Then, in 1996, a new fellowship hall was completed to better serve the growing needs of the congregation. With each new addition, Bethany remained focused on its mission of serving both its members and the wider community.
Perhaps one of the most exciting chapters in Bethany’s history came with the expansion of Bethany Lutheran School. With the vision of offering kindergarten through eighth-grade Christian education, Bethany acquired a second site on Ulatis Drive. Today, the school serves over 230 students, providing them with a quality education rooted in Christian values. Now entering its eighth year on the Ulatis campus, Bethany Lutheran School stands as a shining example of the church’s enduring commitment to faith, education, and community.
As Bethany Lutheran Church continues to meet the challenges of today and plans for the future, the focus remains on its mission—to share the Good News of the Gospel with the people of Vacaville and beyond. This is not just a story of buildings and milestones, but of faith, fellowship, and a community united in love for Christ and one another. The journey continues, and all are welcome to be a part of it.
By July 27, 1953, this dedicated congregation had formally organized as Bethany Lutheran Church, joining the California-Nevada District of The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. With their numbers steadily growing, it wasn’t long before the Legion Hall could no longer contain their growing church family. In 1954, ten generous members came together to donate enough money for a down payment on land that would eventually become the permanent home of Bethany Lutheran. With unwavering faith, volunteer labor, and financial support from the District, construction on the original church building began in 1955 and was completed in 1956. It was a labor of love—a symbol of the congregation’s deep commitment to their faith and each other.
The following decades were marked by incredible growth and progress. In 1961, Bethany took a major step forward by becoming self-sustaining, no longer needing mission church support. The church continued to flourish, adding an education building in 1965 and opening a preschool in 1974. The current church building, a beautiful testament to the congregation’s faith, was completed in 1977, providing a new space for worship and community.
Bethany’s vision didn’t stop there. In 1988, the church purchased adjoining property and expanded its Early Childhood Education program to include extended daycare. Then, in 1996, a new fellowship hall was completed to better serve the growing needs of the congregation. With each new addition, Bethany remained focused on its mission of serving both its members and the wider community.
Perhaps one of the most exciting chapters in Bethany’s history came with the expansion of Bethany Lutheran School. With the vision of offering kindergarten through eighth-grade Christian education, Bethany acquired a second site on Ulatis Drive. Today, the school serves over 230 students, providing them with a quality education rooted in Christian values. Now entering its eighth year on the Ulatis campus, Bethany Lutheran School stands as a shining example of the church’s enduring commitment to faith, education, and community.
As Bethany Lutheran Church continues to meet the challenges of today and plans for the future, the focus remains on its mission—to share the Good News of the Gospel with the people of Vacaville and beyond. This is not just a story of buildings and milestones, but of faith, fellowship, and a community united in love for Christ and one another. The journey continues, and all are welcome to be a part of it.