Our History

Since 1865

The Call to Andhra Pradesh

In 1865, Rev. Father Milianus, representing the Hermannsburg Mission Society (Germany), arrived in South India and established the first mission station at Sulurupeta. This marked the birth of the Hermannsburg Indian Lutheran Mission (H.I.L.M.). With unyielding faith, early missionaries navigated immense challenges—learning Telugu, enduring harsh climates, and advocating for the basic rights of marginalized communities.

Over decades, the mission grew exponentially. By 1904, the Joint Synod of Ohio assumed responsibility, initiating the Ohio Indian Lutheran Mission (O.I.L.M.). The foundation built by these pioneers laid the groundwork for a robust indigenous church body that would eventually encompass 95,000 members, schools, hospitals, and hundreds of congregations across Rayalaseema and coastal Andhra.

By 1877 the Mission Had Grown:

Twelve years after the first missionary arrived, the gospel had taken deep root in the soil of Andhra. The initial seeds sown by the German missionaries rapidly multiplied into a thriving network of faithful congregations, dedicated native teachers, and established mission stations across the region.

Congregations

Teachers

Baptized

Mission Stations

A Legacy Unfolds

Interactive Timeline

Click on any event below to expand and read the full historical details.

1865

First Station at Sulurupeta

Rev. Father Milianus establishes the very first mission station of the Hermannsburg Mission Society at Sulurupeta, laying the cornerstone for the South Andhra Lutheran Church.

1866

First School Opened

Believing that education and the Gospel walk hand-in-hand, the first elementary school is opened at Nayudupeta, beginning more than 160 years of Lutheran educational ministry.

1872

Milianus holds Satyagraha

Decades before India's independence movement, Rev. Milianus held a satyagraha (peaceful protest) at Bolapothula Rajavaari Gruham to secure land rights for the church and its marginalized members.

1879

First Telugu Hymn Book

The printing of the first SALC Telugu hymn book significantly enhanced regional worship, embedding Lutheran theology into the melodic traditions of the Telugu people.

1892

Seminary & Women's Work

A Theological Seminary is founded at Nayudupeta to train native pastors. Simultaneously, the historic 'Bible Women's work' begins at Gudur, transforming the outreach to rural families.

1927

K.L. Hospital Established

The Katharine Lehmann Christian Hospital is established in Renigunta, bringing modern medical care, compassion, and healing to thousands across the district.

1931

Gurukul Theological College

SALC students and staff formally enroll at the newly established United Lutheran Theological College (Gurukul) in Chennai, cementing higher theological education for SALC clergy.

1945

SALC Formally Organized

In January 1945, the South Andhra Lutheran Church officially organizes as an autonomous church body. The First Convention is held and the First President is elected, transferring leadership to native clergy.

1952 & 1954

Global Recognition & Registration

In 1952, SALC joins the global communion of the Lutheran World Federation. In 1954, it is officially registered under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860.

2014 – 2015

150th Anniversary

The entire denomination gathers for the 150th Anniversary Golden Jubilee Celebrations, praising God for a century and a half of sustaining grace, growth, and vibrant ministry in Andhra Pradesh.

"I can do all this through him who gives me strength."

PHILIPPIANS 4:13