What to expect your first time at St. John

We understand that it can be somewhat intimidating to walk into an unfamiliar place. To make it as comfortable and non-threatening as possible, we have outlined some essential information about what to expect your first time at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Dress

Dress

Most people dress nice, but casually, please come any way YOU want. You will see people in jeans and a shirt, you will see other people in suit coats and dresses. Our desire is for you to feel comfortable and welcomed in every way.

 

Offerings

We believe that all we have is a gift from God. Giving an offering is an opportunity to give back a portion of what God has blessed us with. No one dictates what each person shall give.  We pass an offering plate after the sermon. This is also the time to put your attendance slip, with your first and last name, into the offering plate. The attendance slips help staff know how many bulletins to print, how many communion cups to fill, etc, so please fill them out every week.The attendance slip can also be used to get our staff a message.  Offerings support the many ministries that are happening at and because of St. John. You are welcomed to participate as you heart leads you to give.

 

Time

Our worship services usually average about 60 minutes; sometimes shorter in the summer, and sometimes longer during special events like confirmation.

 

Worship

The order of worship is printed in the bulletin. Sometimes the words to music not found in a children's sermonhymnal will also be in the bulletin along with some prayers and responsive readings.  Please feel free to participate as much or little as you feel comfortable doing. After the service, we invite you to greet the pastor and introduce yourself. He’ll be standing at the back, shaking hands and chatting.

 

Sermon

Our preaching and teaching is biblically based and is most often delivered by our pastor.

 

Music

Our music incorporates both the modern contemporary music and more traditional hymns. At our traditional worship service the congregation is accompanied by an organ. Our contemporary worship services sometimes include instruments such as piano, guitars, drums, and other instruments.

 

Communion

At St. John, the Lord’s Supper is celebrated on the first and third Sunday of the month at each worship service. We believe everyone is welcome at the Lord’s table. You do not have to be a member or the congregation, or even Lutheran, in order to partake. All we ask is that you believe Jesus’ promise that he is here giving himself to us in the bread and wine. An usher will direct you to communion by coming to your row and inviting you to come to the front of the church. Hold your hands out to receive the bread. Gluten-free wafers are available on the organ side, if desired. Select an individual cup of wine from the tray. The center cup of each tray is grape-juice. When you return to your seat we invite you to take time for prayer.

 

Questions?

Let us know and we will happy to answer any questions you might have.

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