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Lutheran Church of Our Savior burns its mortgage
Celebratory event held in Rehoboth in honor of congregation’s 75th annivesary
Gathered for a mortgage-burning ceremony outside the Lutheran Church of Our Savior are (l-r) Terry Hesterman, church council president; Vacancy Pastor Don Schaefer; Bill Harmon, bishop of the Southeastern District; and Bill Dietal, chair of the 75th Anniversary Celebration Committee. TED PFIRRMANN PHOTOS
July 20, 2025
The Lutheran Church of Our Savior celebrated its 75th anniversary in Rehoboth Beach by burning its mortgage July 13.
The mortgage, originally for $454,683, was taken out in April 2011, and paid off in December 2024, but staff wanted to wait until the weather was warm enough so everyone could attend.
“This marks the 75th anniversary of when services began here on the Boardwalk in 1950,” said Vacancy Pastor Don Schaefer. “This has been a sign of the amazing generosity and faithfulness of this congregation. This has been a long time coming, and trying to pay off a mortgage is always a challenge. They were determined to do it, and they did.”
Showing off books that are for sale are (l-r) Donna Fellows, Peter Oswald and Lois Peregoy.
Several members of the church take pride in lighting the mortgage document on fire.
Dioramas showcase the early life of the church.
