Tree of Life’s history began in July 1988 when the Delmarva Conference Ministry Planning Committee was appointed and charged with evaluating the MOT area for potential mission and ministry opportunities.  The first worship gathering was held on May 19, 1991, in the Barr Chapel of St. Anne’s Episcopal Church and was attended by 12 people.  The church began monthly worship services under the name of St. Mary’s Lutheran Community Church.  With weekly worship services, the congregation outgrew the chapel, moved to a store front at the corner of Broad and Main Streets in Middletown, to Brick Mill Elementary School, and to its current location at 505 Osbourne Street, Odessa, DE.  Although the church and congregation have gone through many moves, some growing pains, and a name change -- changing its name to Tree of Life Lutheran Church in July of 2000 – Tree of Life remains a close, friendly and open congregation that does God’s work and shares His Love.  In May 2016 Tree of Life celebrated its 25th anniversary. On June 26, 2022, Tree of Life celebrated with a picnic and a mortgage burning ceremony. The story continues.  Click the links below to learn more about Tree of Life’s beginnings and history.

Click HERE to view Tree of Life's 25th Anniversary History Booklet.
Click HERE to view Tree of Life's most recent History.

Click HERE to view photos from the 25th Anniversary Party.

Click HERE to view photos from the first service in our current church building.