Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
The Central Lutheran congregation was founded in 1919. The current building was completed in 1929 without the bell tower and carillon, which were added in 2005, competing the original building plan.
What is your primary product or service?
Central's congregation is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Our primary mission is to share the gospel of Jesus Christ. Christ has directed his followers to love God and to love and serve the neighbor. Central does so in many ways. Weekly worship services glorify God through biblical preaching, soaring choral and instrumental music, and Holy Communion. The Restoration Center provides direct service to people experiencing homelessness within the city, and to all people in need, with a Monday worship service and meal; a free store, nursing center & other resources; and advocacy for policies to end homelessness.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
Central is the only ELCA church in downtown Minneapolis. Its cathedral-style sanctuary seats 1,800, and is a venue for many large choral and orchestra events throughout the year, as well as special worship services, conference gatherings, and speakers. The church is located directly across the street (east) from the Minneapolis Convention Center, so groups meeting there often plan some of their activities within Central's space as well. There is a large parking lot adjacent to the building, and a parking ramp that is shared with the City of Minneapolis.
Provide detailed directions to your location
Central's address is 333 South 12th St. - the corner of 3rd Av. S. and 12th St. S. in downtown Minneapolis, directly east of the Convention Center. Access to parking is from 3rd Av. S. From northbound I-35W, the 11th St. exit leads directly to 3rd Av. Turn left on 3rd, cross 12th, and the parking entrance is mid-block. There also is access to 11th St. from westbound I-94. From eastbound I-94, take the 4th St. exit, turn right on 3rd Av. South (not North) and follow it to Central (8 blocks). From eastbound I-394, exit at 12th St and follow it to 3rd Av. S.
See or download these directions on the website: ow.ly/QeQ0a
Which areas do you service?
The congregation comes from across 24 zip codes in the Twin Cities metropolitan area. All are welcome.
What are your hours of operation?
Building hours are posted on the church website calendar: ow.ly/QeOrW
Worship services are held Saturdays, 5:30pm and Sundays, 8:30 and 10:30am, with additional weekday services during special seasons (Christmas, Easter, Lent). Central's website provides worship times and other information: centralmpls.org
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
The best compliment anyone can give is that they visit and then return, and/or that they tell or invite someone else to come.
What is your favorite quote or Bible verse?
Central's mission is: "Exploring the promise of God for all." And all means ALL.