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Our Heritage

Oak Lake Evangelical Free Church is affiliated with the Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA). Scandinavian immigrants formed this association of churches over 100 years ago. Having experienced religious persecution in their homeland, these pioneers were seeking the freedom to worship and serve God according to their understanding of the Scriptures Thus the name "Free," indicating that they were no longer under the authority and rule of the state churches of their homelands (i.e., Norway, Denmark, Sweden). Each church had the privilege and resolve to determine its own form of government and practice of faith before God.

Although the early Free Churches had a predominantly Scandinavian heritage, today's churches are fellowships of people from diverse ancestries, cultures and denominational backgrounds. Because of its commitment to outreach and meaningful ministry, the Evangelical Free Church of America has been noted as one of the fastest growing denominations in this country.

This local gathering of believers is a relative newcomer to the fellowship of Free Churches. Our church was incorporated in 1977, having its roots in the Evangelical Mennonite church family. In 1983, the church dissociated from the Evangelical Mennonite group and became an Independent Bible church. In February, 1996, the congregation of Oak Lake Bible Church voted unanimously to affiliate with the Evangelical Free Church of America. Thus was born Oak Lake Evangelical Free Church. Though formally identifying with the EFCA, Oak Lake EFC occasionally joins with other churches in the Lincoln area for cooperative efforts and community activites. Though "Free," we are also "interdependent."

We believe the better part of our history has yet to be recorded. Perhaps the Lord will lead you to be part of the chronicles of Oak Lake that have yet to be written.