St. Paul’s held its first meeting on March 29, 1986 and was chartered on April 12 of that year. The church was named “St. Paul’s” in honor of the great missionary apostle of the first Christian church. The church became part of the German evangelical synod of North America. This synod became part of the evangelical and reformed church, which in 1957 became a part of the United Church of Christ giving the church its current name, St. Paul’s United Church of Christ.
A church building was constructed in the northeast section of Oshkosh, and it was dedicate don October 18, 1896.
In June 1901 the church called a young man as pastor in hopes he could guide them in the years to come. They called the rev. Theodore Irion and he stayed for fifty-three years! Under Rev. Irion’s leadership the church grew and prospered.
A congregational meeting called in 1908 resulted in a vote to rebuild and enlarge the church building which had been used since 1896. An entrance area with a balcony was added to the front, a new chancel at the north, and a two story wing to the west were added for additional sanctuary seating and classrooms for the Sunday school. A new basement was placed under the entire structure which added a kitchen, toilet rooms, boiler room, and a large Sunday school room, that could also be used for banquets and other large functions.
The greatest change, however, came on October 4, 1914 when the first service in the English language was conducted in St. Paul’s. Throughout the previous years German had been used exclusively in Sunday school, worship services, and society meetings.
In 1922 an opportunity presented itself to acquire the house and property on Evans St., immediately to the rear of the church. The house was called the Parish House and used for Sunday school and meetings. One room became the printing room for the church newsletter, “The Tidings.”
Since the beginning of St. Pauls, choirs were a part of worship. This continues today with the Chancel Choir at the traditional service and the Praise Team at the contemporary service.
As the 100th anniversary approached, several major problems faced St. Paul’s. Over the years, numerous changes had been made in the laws governing public buildings. Man of these involved ease of access for handicapped. After much prayerful consideration and discussion, it was decided to build a new church at the Leonard Point location. The beautiful new facility has enabled the congregate to grow and flourish. The contemporary Services now include keyboard, drums and guitar providing modern music.
The congregation gives thanks to God for all the years of blessings, and looks forward to many years to come as we continue to be the church, the Body of Christ.