Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis is a grantmaking ministry of 81 St. Louis area Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod congregations.

Our history began over 160 years ago with Reverend Johann F. Buenger, who had a vision for a “place where sick fellow believers and also other sick, led to us by the Lord, could be taken up and cared for physically and spiritually.” Rev. Buenger, a German immigrant who had lost his wife and three infant sons to various illnesses, launched a campaign to build a new hospital for those in need here in St. Louis.

In 1858, with financial support from Lutheran congregations across the city, Rev. Buenger founded the hospital that would later become the Lutheran Medical Center. Over the years, the hospital grew – providing quality care, outreach and nurse training to the community in the name of Jesus. From its earliest days, Rev. Buenger recognized the guiding hand of a gracious God as the hospital undertook its healing ministry.

When the Lutheran Medical Center was sold in 1984, an endowment was created with the proceeds. Today, that endowment is managed by Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis. For the most part, our 81 Delegate Member congregations are the same churches that owned the Lutheran Medical Center.

Inspired by Rev. Buenger’s vision and the compassion of Christ Jesus, we continue to support efforts that improve the physical, mental, intellectual and spiritual health and well-being of all people in our community.

To the honor of Christ Jesus, Lutheran Foundation of St. Louis seeks the improved care of people in the greater St. Louis metropolitan region.