Pilgrim and St. Stephen Vote to Merge

On Sunday, April 26, Pilgrim Lutheran Church and St. Stephen Lutheran Church of Wausau each voted to approve a merger, marking a hopeful and Spirit‑led milestone in a journey of deep discernment, relationship‑building, and shared vision.

Pilgrim began a season of intentional discernment in early 2023 and entered into conversation with St. Stephen’s in early 2024. Over time, the congregations explored several possible partnership models before beginning focused conversations about merging in June 2025. Throughout the process, there were moments when it was tempting to move more quickly—but again and again, the congregations slowed down, trusted God’s timing, and allowed the work to unfold faithfully.

Since June 2025, a joint task force and many lay leaders from both congregations have worked together to tend both the relationships and the practical work of bringing two congregational cultures into one. Along the way, the congregations partnered with a coach who helped them listen deeply—to God’s call, to one another, and to what new life God might be shaping through this merger.

In October, both congregations collaborated to discern and name a shared purpose and guiding values for the future. That work has served as a steady light throughout the process, shaping conversations and decisions as the congregations tended both the work and the relationships required for a healthy merger.

The official date of merger will be June 8th. A service of leave‑taking from Pilgrim’s building is planned for July 19th, honoring Pilgrim’s long and faithful ministry while making space for what is being born. With gratitude for the journey behind them and trust in God’s ongoing leading, the congregations look forward to a vital future together as St. Stephen’s.

Pastor Dara Q. Clifford
Associate to the Bishop,
Director for Evangelical Mission