The Mission was started by John C. Lewis, layreader at St. Luke's, Bustleton under the Rev. S. F. Hotchkin, Rector. 

The first services were held on October 3, 1897 in the home of Mrs. Thomas Franklyn on Somerton Avenue. Ten people attended. 

The congregation increased to 35 people, which necessitated a larger place in which to worship. 

Mrs. Taylor, one of the members, offered Taylor Hall located on the Northeast corner of Bustleton Avenue and Byberry  Road as a meeting place. 

During the first year, the congregation had grown from ten to 61 persons. The total expenditures for the year were $35.64 and the yearly offering amounted to $261.91. 

In October, Mr. Lewis resented plans from several builders. The plan of Mr. Albert Kuhn was accepted at the cost of $1180.00 for the erection and completion of the chapel. 

On Thursday, October 26 at 3 pm the laying cornerstone of St. Luke's Somerton Mission took place. 

Among the articles deposited in the cornerstone were copies of the Philadelphia daily papers, a copy of the Frankford Herald, a list of contributors to the building fund, a history of the Mission and historical events of the Protestant Episcopal Church.