The Life, Times, and Some of the Accomplishments of Pastor Henry W. Grigsby

Abstract

Brady E. Coleman’s biographical essay chronicles the life and ministry of Pastor Henry W. Grigsby, the first Black minister in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). Born in 1906 in Camden, Alabama, Grigsby overcame early adversity, including a debilitating hip injury, and pursued theological training at Immanuel Lutheran College. After graduating in 1931, he served multiple congregations in Alabama, often under strenuous conditions. His journey eventually led him to Detroit, Michigan, where he helped revive a congregation that became Zoar Lutheran Church. Grigsby’s leadership and persistence brought Zoar into fellowship with WELS, and he was called as its full-time pastor in 1956. He served faithfully for two decades before retiring to Siloah Lutheran Church in Milwaukee. Grigsby’s legacy includes fostering over 100 children, mentoring countless individuals, and embodying the spirit of Christian service. The essay offers a heartfelt tribute to a pioneering figure in WELS history. —Abstract by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)