St. Pauls Episcopal Church

Mission
"The mission of St. Paul's Episcopal Church is to live out the love of God as seen in Jesus Christ. We will with God's help: Discover God's presence in Word and Sacrament, Share God's word, Nurture God's people, Encourage congregational and personal growth on our shared journey, and Act justly and peaceably."

History
St. Paul's Episcopal Church was founded in 1947 and has served Lakewood and the surrounding communities in the western area of Denver for over 50 years. During the first three years of existence, St. Paul's flourished as a mission and actively supported many ventures outside of the parish. Ainsley Carlton was ordained as the first priest for St. Paul's in October of 1947.

Early in 1951, the building that was to serve as a temporary worship structure was completed. However in 1953, a building program was undertaken to construct a more permanent structure. This funding effort was finalized during the beginning of 1956 and the ground-breaking ceremony was held on May 6, 1956. The building was completed in November of 1957 with a
dedication ceremony that same month.

In 1967, the church acquired the property at the northwest corner of 10th and Garrison. The property was paved to accommodate necessary parking spaces for members of the congregation. In 1971, the Vestry announced that it had elected the Rev. Robert F. Royster to become rector of St. Paul's following the resignation of Rev. C. Norman Middleton. During the first twenty five years as a Mission and Parish, St. Paul's became a strong stable and influential church within the Lakewood
community, contributing willingly toward many worthwhile activities through both church and community services.

St. Paul's second twenty five years has been a continuation of the physical and spiritual growth of the parish which had begun with energy, hope and involvement among clergy and laity in 1947.

The opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments of the first twenty five years was summarized in an anniversary festival prepared in 1972 honoring the founders of the church. The celebration of several days included fun, music, prayer, praise and fund raising activities. On January 25, 1975, the right Reverend William Frey consecrated St. Paul's main church building, which had been built in 1955. A burning of the mortgage was performed and a Festival Eucharist was celebrated.

After ten years as Rector of St. Paul's, Father Royster offered his resignation to the Vestry in October,1 1980, to take effect in January, 1981. In 1981, the Reverend Robert A Buck was selected to be the new rector. The charge to Father Buck was to develop lay ministry, youth ministry and outreach. Institution of the new rector took place on September 16, 1981. During this time, improvements were made to the existing Sunday School facilities, kitchen area, and the Sacristy.

St. Paul's 50th anniversary events were held during January of 1997 and included various services and festive functions which were attended by both past and present members of St. Paul's congregation. The church continues to participate in activities both within and outside of the community to better serve the teachings of our Lord and Savior. As stated by one member of
the congregation, "The future will surely bring a continuing quality of spiritual depth on the corporate life of the parishioners and their clergy, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit". (Mrs. Clara Anker, 1997).