Is this ‘contemporary’ or ‘traditional’ worship? We believe that all worship is both ‘contemporary’ (that is, it is happening right now) and ‘traditional’ (that is, it has familiar/ancient/cultural roots). At this congregation, we follow the ancient order of “Gather-Word-Meal-Send/” We also strive to include a diversity of hymns and language that are meaningful for a broad assembly of people – and accessible for visitors. We also have a praise band that once a month provides all the music for worship.
How should I enter? All are welcome to ‘come as you are”. Many of our members enjoy time for quiet contemplation before worship begins, so we ask that conversation in the sanctuary be kept to a minimum before and during worship – especially during the time when Holy Communion is being distributed. The noises of children are; however, always a welcome sound, at all times.
Please turn your phones to ‘vibrate’ – but feel free to ‘check in’ and let your friends know you’re here!
Why so much standing? Lutherans believe that worship is participatory; we do not gather to watch happen, we are all involved in making worship happen. We invite the members of the assembly to stand when they are active participants in worship (especially praying and singing). If you are uncomfortable or have difficulty standing, you are always welcome to remain seated.
What are the worship leaders wearing? Most of the time, many of the worship leaders wear a white robe called an “alb”. This robe is meant to symbolize being ‘clothed in Christ’ in the gift of Holy Baptism. The pastor wears a long band of cloth called a “stole”. This is a symbol of the pastoral office and is meant to remind us all about the call to bear the burdens of those in need (Matthew 11:28-30). Finally, the pastor who presides at Holy Communion often wears a large circle of cloth called a “chasuble”. This word is related to the Latin word for “house” and the chasuble is a visible reminder that God invites and gathers all people into the household of God where all people share one meal.
When should I clap/applaud? There are times when something happens in worship that is acknowledged with applause-e.g., baptism or the installation of leaders. At those times, the pastor may invite the assembly to applaud. In general; however, we seek to avoid giving the impression that what is happening in worship is a ‘performance’ or ‘entertainment’. Worship happens when God’s people get together to give thanks to God. We do that in lots of ways-including offering gifts of music, etc. After a gift of music is offered, you may consider giving thanks to God in silent prayer for the gift of music-and personally thanking the musicians after worship for being willing to share that gift with us.
Does this church recognize women as pastors? Indeed! Our community of Lutherans has been enjoying the gifts of ordained women for over 45 years.
Who can serve in worship? Anyone! We would love to have you help read, assist, serve, set-up, greet, usher, acolyte, and/or provide coffee fellowship. Just talk to the pastor or contact the office and we’ll get you signed up and trained.
Why doesn’t the pastor do everything? One of the hallmarks of the Reformation (the movement that gave birth to the Lutheran church) was a desire for laypeople to be more involved in worship – and that includes leadership. There are portions of the service that are typically reserved for lay people – readings, prayers of intercession, prayers before and after communion, among others. We enjoy broad lay participation in leading us in worship.