Welcome to St. John’s! If you’ve come to this page, it’s likely you’re searching for something: a church, a community, an encounter with the sacred, a place for your kids, a place to serve—or maybe something else entirely! Whatever it is you are looking for, St. John’s would love to accompany you on the journey. We don’t have all the answers, but we promise to work through the questions together. We are glad you’re here!

 

We know it can be intimidating to try something or someplace new. We hope these FAQs will help you feel more at ease. You can also contact us with any other questions!

 

Am I welcome? Are my children welcome? 

Everyone is welcome to join us in fellowship or worship. You do not need to be Lutheran! All you need is a desire to find out what God is up to here. 

Your children are absolutely welcome as well! 

 

What can I expect at Sunday Worship?

We follow an ancient pattern of worship: Gathering, Word, Meal and Sending. This pattern goes all the way back to the earliest Christian communities. 

We are a liturgical church, meaning that portions of the service, taken from scripture, are repeated each week. There is a "back and forth/call and response" between the leaders and the people--which gives both the chance to proclaim God's word! Though the texts may change seasonally, they are often the same from week to week. Repetition helps us to remember God's word and carry it with us throughout the week. 

Music is important to us and is woven throughout the service. Some tunes may be familiar, some may not be, but as the old song goes, "All God's children got a place in the choir!" There are no mistakes to be made when worshiping God.
For More, see our Worshiping page.

 

What opportunities are there for Bible Study or other faith formation?

There are various Bible Studies and small groups who meet weekly or monthly. For a detailed description, please see our Growing page.

 

What is Lutheran? What do you believe?

"Lutheran" refers to the tradition inspired and begun by Martin Luther in the 1500s.

First and foremost, we as Lutherans believe in the Triune God. God created and loves all of creation -- the earth and the seas and all of the world’s inhabitants. We believe that God's Son, Jesus Christ, transforms lives through his death on the cross and his new life, and we trust that God's Spirit is active in the world. We are part of God’s unfolding plan. When we gather for worship, we connect with believers everywhere. When we study the Bible or hear God’s word in worship, we are drawn more deeply into God’s own saving story.

For More, see the What We Believe section on this page or check out the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America's Teachings.

 

Do I need to be Lutheran? Do I need to be baptized?

You do not need to be a Lutheran to worship with us, or be baptized. God's house is open to all!