St. John Lutheran Church
located in the heart of Salem, Oregon
Pastor Harry Stratton
Pastor Harry Stratton of Stayton, Oregon is a second career pastor. He came into the pastorate late in life having been in business for most of his life. He felt the call of the Lord some years back studying the word of God many hours every day. In 2005 he injured his right knee, had three operations with over two years of rehab. During that time, he took many classes in college and took the SMP program provided by the LCMS church. He was then ordained in 2014.
Pastor Harry loves working with his hands, creating and building which brings him great joy, but his greatest joy is in learning and teaching the "Word of God." There's no greater joy than to be in fellowship with God's children and he longs to see the lost come to the Lord.
Pastor is married to Judy, the love of his life. Judy has two daughters, Melissa and Kristina and one grandson, Vincent.
Pastor Harry has one son and three daughters, Robert, Tracie, Melissa, Cassie and six grandchildren.
Mission Statement
Our mission at St. John is to "Seek the lost, disciple the found, multiply disciple makers & churches locally and globally."
Community
St. John is a community of Christians and extended families in the community. It is a place for little ones to learn and grow, and families to be blessed through the school. It is a place to worship God, follow Jesus, and love one another through the congregation. Together we serve Salem and beyond.
All are welcome.
"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
"I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (The words of Jesus)