What to Expect

When we speak of "liturgy," we generally mean a set or prescribed plan of worship. We do not use the liturgy to be "fancy," but rather because it ensures that all of our worship is centered around Holy Scripture. Every part of the Lutheran liturgy is directly taken out of Scripture or is adapted from it. We sing hymns that glorify God, generally with the accompaniment of the organ. We generally use the liturgies from Lutheran Service Book. We rotate through the "settings" throughout the month, which means that the music may be a bit different, but the structure and message will be the same. Don't worry if you're not familiar with it right away! We also have projection screens to follow along with the service, so don't be nervous about having to flip through the hymnal and keep up.

You'll encounter people dressed a variety of styles, from "Sunday best" to jeans and a polo shirt. Don't let this be a hindrance to coming to church, though--our Lord call us to come to worship as we are to receive His gifts.

Absolutely! We hope that you'll bring your children to worship, and if they're not yet baptized, schedule a baptism for them. As kids get more familiar with the flow of the service, they'll become more comfortable. In the meantime, we really do consider the noises of little children the future of the church. As our Lord Jesus Christ said, "Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven." (Matthew 19:14)

Only if you considered being "singled out" being welcomed! Our greeters will hand you a bulletin as you walk in, and since we're in a small town, they'll probably recognize you as a visitor. If you're unsure about anything, don't be afraid to ask! They'll guide you in the right direction.

No. All of our worship services are provided free of cost.

During worship, an offering plate will be passed through the congregation. If this is your first time visiting, you are free to contribute, but please do not feel obligated to do so.

For our members, special services such as weddings and funerals also have no cost - these are among their rights and privileges as members.

Communicant members of any other congregation within the LCMS are welcome to commune at our altar.

We practice "closed communion" out of care and concern for your spiritual well-being. If you are not a communicant member of another LCMS congregation, you may come to the table and receive a blessing or remain in the pews and sing the distribution hymns along with the rest of the congregation that is not at the altar.

You may sit anywhere in the sanctuary. There's an old joke among Lutherans that you'll be around more people in the back, but our sanctuary has plenty of room and all of the pews are padded. If you or one of the members of your party is in a wheelchair, there is a reserved pew in the back of the sanctuary where you can sit next to your party.

You are welcome to participate to the extent that you are comfortable. If you're not ready to sing the hymns or confess the creeds, you are not obligated to do so. Generally, it is considered polite to stand when the rest of the congregation does, if you're able to do so.

There will be announcements in the bulletin that you'll receive, and there are also copies of the church newsletter in the narthex. If you'd like to receive the monthly newsletter, you can send an email to the Church Office and they will be happy to put you on our distribution list.

We hold new member classes as needed. Call the Church and School Office (618-495-2246) and we'll "get the ball moving."

It depends. In general, these services are considered "public acts" and are therefore belong to members only. If you have questions, please contact the Church and School Office (618-495-2246).