WHAT TO EXPECT

We realize that it can be scary to walk into a new place – especially if you’re not used to attending church. We would like to make it as easy and non-threatening as possible, so here’s some basic information  about what to expect your first time here.

The atmosphere in worship is casual and relaxed. You don’t have to worry about  making a mistake – no one will be judging how you act. Come as you are –  there’s no dress code. You’ll see men and women wearing jeans or  shorts, business suits, and everything in between. Children of all ages  are welcome in the services. When you arrive there will be greeters at  the front door. Their purpose is to welcome you and help you to feel at  home. At the entrance to the Sanctuary there will be ushers, who will  provide you with a bulletin for the worship service. You can sit  anywhere you feel comfortable. The content of the worship service is all  included in the bulletin or visible from the video screens at each side of the alter area. You will be able to follow along easily and  participate as completely as you like. Traditional Lutheran hymns that  will be used in the service are in the red hymnals (Lutheran Service Book), found in the pews.  Directions will be provided for when to sit or stand at different times  during the service. You will not be asked to stand up or identify  yourself as a visitor. We would like for you to fill out your name and  address in the red Attendance Book at the end of each row so that we can send a welcome letter after the service (we also have a weekly email that is sent out). During the  offering, please do not feel obliged to give any money unless you feel led to do so; we want you to just enjoy the service. Many church members give monthly rather than weekly, so no one  will notice or care whether you give or not. If you do want to give  something, there are offering envelopes in the seat rack in front of  you. 

Our worship services include the Lord’s Supper “Communion”, on the  first, second and third Sundays of each month. Baptized Christians who  believe Christ is present in the bread and the wine, who see their need  for forgiveness, and who want to confirm their life to Jesus’ example  are welcome to participate. You’ll find more information about Communion here (see below) and in the worship folder. Prayer is an important component of our  worship service. Early in the service you will be invited to fill out a  prayer card with any requests for prayer that you may have and any request  that you submit will be prayed for during the service. If you have  other questions, please feel free to ask anyone you see, or to contact  the church before you come the first time.

The Lord’s Supper, or Holy Communion, is held on the first, second and third Sunday of each month as part of the worship service. In Holy  Communion the bread and the wine are the real body and blood of Christ,  given and shed for the forgiveness of our sins. Baptized Christians, who  believe Christ is present in the bread and the wine, who see their need  for forgiveness, and who want to confirm their life to Jesus’ example  may receive Holy Communion. If you do not wish to receive Communion, but  would like to receive a blessing, you are also invited to come forward  with those who are taking Communion. Simply fold your arms across your  chest to signal the clergy that you do not wish to commune, but wish to  receive a blessing. Or if you do not wish to go up at all, you may  remain in your seat.