The Dubuque mission began in the late 1950's when Pastor William F. Reddel and some members of St. Paul Lutheran Church, on Jackson Street in downtown Dubuque, sought the Lord's will concerning a mission congregation in the western part of the city. With the blessings of our Triune God, the Iowa District East of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod secured 3.5 acres of land in the fall of 1959. The tract of land was along the Old Timers Road, which consisted of gravel. This is now John F. Kennedy Road. This would be the site for the new mission congregation. On July 5, 1960, Pastor Kenneth Rogahn was called to serve as Missionary at Large. Pastor Rogahn assisted Pastor Reddel at St. Paul's, and also canvassed homes in the western side of the city to discover prospective members for the new congregation. On Sunday, November 6,1960, the first Divine Service of the "Dubuque Mission" was held in the rented quarters of the Farm Bureau building (still on John F. Kennedy Road). Worshippers numbered 56. On August 13, 1961, groundbreaking ceremonies took place. The strong hand of God was certainly resting on the mission congregation. The Voters' Assembly was led to choose the name, "Our Redeemer," for the congregation. In January 1962, Pastor Kenneth Rogahn was installed as the congregation's first pastor. The dedication of the new sanctuary was among his first duties. The $50,000 structure consisted of a combination parish hall and worship area. March 1966, saw the addition of an educational unit. The young congregation numbered 269 souls, with 147 communicants. In May 1980, the new nave and sacristy were dedicated to the glory of our Triune God. The congregation had grown to 474 souls, with 329 communicants. Throughout its forty-year history, Our Redeemer Lutheran Church has faithfully carried out the mission of our crucified and risen Lord Jesus Christ. The inerrant Word of our Lord has given the increase, as our congregation has grown to 640 souls, with 475 communicants, the largest number of souls in our history. On the day of our fortieth anniversary, we thank our Lord for His countless and priceless blessings. For what has been, we thank our God. For all that will be, we trust our God.