Our Story
Messiah Congregation, circa 1967
On August 1, 1966, a VW “bug” driven by a young, enthusiastic Lutheran pastor, Ruben Olawsky, arrived in Mauldin. After moving into the parsonage on Bethel Drive with his wife, Jane Anne, and their three children, William, Keith, and Mira, he began the task of developing a Lutheran mission congregation in the Golden Strip area. His boundless enthusiasm was evident at the first worship service, held at Mauldin Elementary School on October 23, 1966, with an attendance of 99. Pastor Rodney Parrot served Messiah after Olawsky's departure, helping Messiah grow sturdy roots in the community. Pastor John Yost followed, bringing a mission of developing vision and stamina to Messiah. "Pastor John" was part of Messiah for over 30 years, helping its ministries and numbers grow significantly. Over the years, a faithful group of associate pastors, lay ministry professionals, and volunteer leaders have helped Messiah expand its ministry in Christ.
Our Values
Messiah is a warm congregation with a heart for service. Rooted in the Good News of Jesus Christ, Messiah equips its parishioners to respond to God's gifts of grace through spiritual formation, worship, learning, and support of God's hurting ones. A member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Messiah recognizes that the Church is strongest when Christian denominations honor their historical and sacramental ties. We welcome people of all backgrounds, and strongly support the ministries of our neighboring congregations in the Upstate of South Carolina and beyond.
Our Mission
- Knowing Jesus
- Sharing Jesus
- Serving Jesus
