About us
Welcome to Emmanuel Lutheran Church, a place located in the heart of Venice, Florida on the Gulf. Individually we make up the body of Christ and together we work to make this community a welcoming home.
We strive to be a welcoming community of Christians that use our ministry of faith to make a better and brighter footprint in the local community and worldwide. We have over 675 members and are growing! We are expanding our youth program and would love for you to be a part of our journey.
Worship is uplifting and the message of the Gospel is reflected through the ministry of the church.
You will sense the joy of the Lord when you enter this community of faith.
Emmanuel is passionate about serving others and is a community that lives out our mission and vision:
To Know Christ and Boldly Make Him Known
Lead PASTOR
The Rev. WILLIAM A KITTINGER, JR
I joined Emmanuel Lutheran Church as Lead Pastor in July of 2023—but in many ways, it felt like coming home. Born in Sarasota and raised in Venice (Go Indians!), I was baptized, confirmed, married, and ordained here at Emmanuel. This congregation has shaped my entire journey of faith and is largely responsible for my call as a pastor. Before returning to Venice, I served for six years as Associate Pastor for Mission Development at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Naples, Florida.
I’m blessed to share my life and ministry with my beloved wife, Jacqui, and our amazing daughter, Elisha. I’m as passionate about my family as I am about the work God has called me to do. In our free time, we love exploring the arts in our community, savoring the great restaurants, and spending quality time with our wonderful neighbors here in Venice.
info@emmanuel-elca.org
941-488-4942
VISITATION PASTOR
The Rev. DAVID HESS
Hello, I am Rev. David L. Hess and I'm the Visitation Pastor at Emmanuel. After 42 years of ordained ministry serving two congregations, I retired and became a snowbird with my wife, Linda, enjoying Venice’s seasonal beauty. When Emmanuel saw a need for pastoral care, I was honored to step in part-time.
info@emmanuel-elca.org
941-488-4942
