I'm New...
What Can I Expect?

Come as you are. It doesn’t matter what you wear or what shape your spiritual life is in. God meets you and loves you where you are, as you are. We will do our best to do the same.

Holy Communion. We are welcomed to Christ’s table, and he invites you to “come and eat.” Christ has promised to be present in the bread and wine (gluten-free wafers and juice are available). If you are hungry for grace, mercy, and forgiveness through Jesus Christ this meal is for you. It is free. No strings attached. Blessings are offered to those who would prefer not to receive communion.All children are welcome to commune at the parent’s discretion, if you have questions about this, please speak with the Pastor.

Sit, stand, kneel…when, where, what? We move around in worship. Our bodies express and experience God’s presence.  We stand for some readings; we sit for some. We stand for some singing; we sit for some. We kneel or stand around the altar for communion. In all circumstances, it is your choice. 

What about accessibility? We offer large print bulletins. There are several hearing assistance devices. St. Paul Lutheran is an accessible building with entrances and bathrooms with no stairs. Our bathrooms are not handicap accessible. 

Can my kids be in worship? We love kids. There is a children’s time with the pastor in worship after which little ones are invited to Sunday School where they will hear the Bible story, sing, and learn with children-friendly activities. You are also welcome to keep your children in worship. Being in worship is how children learn to worship. If your little one is expressing needs and you need an escape, the room at the back of the sanctuary is available to you. There are color sheets and crayons also available to help keep active hands busy. There are changing tables in the bathrooms and highchairs available.

Worship is liturgical. Our expression of worship is liturgical, isn’t that a strange word? It comes from a Greek word that means ‘work of the people.’ Liturgical worship means that it follows a pattern and is participatory; we pray, sing, listen, and speak together. We speak ancient words in new ways. We sing new hymns with timeless theology. We sing old hymns that never get old. We explore where our life story intersects with the eternal, living story of God’s saving work in the world.

God doesn’t need our perfect worship. God longs for us to love God and one another (otherwise known as the Great Commandment). God gives us this gift of worship to find rest, nourishment, and connection as we practice being the people of God together. This is not a rehearsed production. We are not trying to be perfect or right; the purpose is participation more than excellence.

It lasts about an hour, but sometimes longer.

Financial offering. Giving generously is part of an active faith life. It looks different for each person. Your monetary gifts support the building, staff, and ministries of this church and are truly appreciated. We’re here because people gave.

Did someone mention food? We share the Communion meal during worship and then we move after worship to share snacks, coffee, and conversation in the hall next door. Please come, we want to get to know you.

Be in touch. We welcome your questions and thoughts. If you would like more information or would like to visit and talk to the pastor, please contact the office or Pastor Melissa directly. (phone messages and emails are not checked daily)