Welcome!

Whatever brings you to First Lutheran--whether curiosity, a search for a church home, or a visit with friends or family--we're glad to have you with us.  We're a people who live assured of God's love for us in Christ Jesus, and we invite you to worship with us in celebration of that love. Here are some tips to guide you in your first visit.

When you arrive at First Lutheran...

Enter the main doors (at the north side of the building) and our greeters will welcome you.  Feel free to ask them directions to the restrooms or the supervised nursery for those who would like to drop off their young children during 10:30 a.m. service, or any other questions you might have.

Please sign our guest registry in the narthex, just to the right of the entrance doors.  We love to see where our visitors are coming from.

If you would like to wear one, visitor's badges are available in the racks as you enter the sanctuary.  This helps us greet you more personally.

Between services there is coffee and snacks in the fellowship center, right across from the sanctuary--please help yourself and take a few moments to give us a chance to greet you.

Our worship service...

Is central to our lives as people of God.  By word and by sacrament we encounter our risen Lord.  Please join in the singing and follow the liturgy as boldly or quietly as you wish.  We want you to be comfortable!  Large print hymnals and bulletins, as well as sound enhancers for the hearing impaired are available--ask any usher.Uses both the (green) Lutheran Book of Worship and the (burgundy) Hymn Supplement.  The book and pages numbers are listed in the order for worship in the bulletin.

All baptized Christians are warmly invited to join us for Communion.  We believe that through this bread and wine, Jesus makes Himself present to us and strengthens us for service.  At the time of communion, an usher will direct you to the altar rail.  If you are unsure where to go, follow the ushers' directions or simply follow the person to your left in the pew.  You may take an individual cup from the tray at the head of your seating area, or you may partake of the common cup or pre filled cups of grape juice offered at the altar. Wheat-free wafers are offered in place of the bread for those who need.  Children and adults who are not taking communion are welcome to come forward to the altar rail to receive a blessing from the pastor. 

The service finishes with the leader saying, "Go in peace, serve the Lord.” To which the congregation responds:  “Thanks be to God!"  Leave the sanctuary by the doors you entered where a pastor will be ready to greet you. 

After worship...

If you would like a pastor to visit, or have a prayer request, there is a short form on the back of the visitor's badge you can fill out and hand to any church member or staff person.  Be sure to read your bulletin to find out what's going on at First Lutheran this week.

We're genuinely glad you came to worship with us.  Our purpose is to be the head, heart, and body of our loving God, so please don't hesitate to contact us if you have questions, concerns or a need.