Welcome to Worship

We're thrilled that you'll be joining us for worship! When you arrive, our Greeters will give you a warm welcome and an Usher will provide you with a worship bulletin. The bulletin contains important information, including introductory explanations, the order of service, and announcements. Take a moment to look it over and get ready for worship. Don't hesitate to say hello to those around you and make yourself comfortable.

Our worship service usually starts with a joyful hymn or a moment of reflection, like remembering our baptisms or standing together to remember our humanity. After a prayer, we read one or more lessons from the Bible, followed by the sermon. The sermon is based on the readings for the day and highlights their meaning for our everyday lives. Then, we sing another hymn and continue with prayers and the offering. When we celebrate Holy Communion, there are readings and songs that emphasize the special meaning of this sacrament. If you want to receive Holy Communion, the minister will give you bread and an individual cup of wine. You can leave the small cups in the basket nearby. Holy Communion is offered to all baptized Christians who practice receiving the sacrament. The service ends with a blessing and a closing hymn.

Singing hymns is an essential part of Lutheran worship. We use the Evangelical Lutheran Worship hymnal (ELW) and With One Voice (the blue book), which have a wide range of hymns and songs from different cultures, times, and traditions. We carefully select hymns to enhance the meaning of worship and the celebration of the season. Although the hymns are not usually printed in the bulletin, you will find their numbers in it. You'll also see the hymn numbers on a board at the front of the church.

We believe that active participation in worship is crucial. On any given Sunday, you'll see many people in the congregation reading lessons, singing, greeting, serving, and helping. If you have any questions, our ushers are here to help. Don't be afraid to ask the person next to you for assistance if you need it.

Our goal is for you to have a meaningful experience that enriches your daily life when you worship with us. We're excited to welcome you!