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What if I haven’t been to church in a long time? Not a problem! In fact, we don’t care if you have never been to church. We hope and pray you will find us welcoming and thankful to meet you like many before have experienced. We are planning a more contemporary and relational service just for those who may not have been ‘brought up in the church’.
What if I am not Lutheran? While Immanuel is a Missouri Synod Lutheran Church, we are open to all people seeking to grow in a relationship with Jesus Christ. Being Lutheran isn’t as important as having a heart to seek Christ. If you want to learn more about Lutheran doctrine, that’s an option in our Discovery classes. But it’s certainly not a requirement for attending.
What can I expect when I come to Immanuel? You can expect to be greeted warmly at the door and receive a bulletin for that worship service. The worship service will include music, with the words to songs projected on large screens so everyone can follow along. There will be a message from a pastor that will last about 20-25 minutes. An outline for the message is typically provided in the bulletin, so that the learning is more interactive. Depending on the service, there may also be baptisms and Holy Communion. During the service we hear and speak different passages of scripture that we call the "liturgy," and the pastor will lead us in prayer.
What should I wear? We do not have a dress code and we certainly wouldn’t want you to worry about this! Some people wear jeans and a t-shirt, while most come in "business casual" attire. Some people prefer to dress up, while others prefer to dress down. Wear what you feel is appropriate for meeting God with others. We are more concerned about God’s love and your needs than we are about your clothing.
Is there something for my kids to do? Absolutely! During our bible study hour on Sunday we have a wonderful Sunday School program for children pre-school through 5th grade. We also offer bible study for the Jr. High, High School and adults. During our sermon, we offer a "Children’s Church" experience where the children are invited, if you the parents desire, for children 3 years old through 1st grader. They will follow the leader out for a children’s message. After the sermon the children will return to sit with you for the rest of the service.
What if I want to receive Holy Communion (the Lord’s Supper)? Baptized adult Christians who know they need God’s daily forgiveness, who are sorry for their sins and seek God’s forgiveness, and who believe that the very body and blood of Jesus Christ is truly present in the Lord’s Supper are invited to share this great gift of God with us.
Jesus called us to celebrate Holy Communion until He returns so that we may have forgiveness of sins, strengthening of faith, and the power to live God-pleasing lives.
God’s Word tells us that when we receive the Lord’s Supper, we are not merely receiving bread and wine, but the true, real body and blood of Jesus Christ. Jesus said in Matthew 26:26-30, “This is my body… this is my blood;” not “this represents my body” or “this symbolizes my blood.”
We ask that children experience our Communion Preparation classes in the 7th and 8th grades before communing. We also offer adult instruction through our Discovery Class. If you have doubts or do not understand our beliefs about the Lord’s Supper, please call our church office and ask to speak to the pastor, who would be happy to help you understand the meaning of the Lord’s Supper before communing.
Red grape juice is located in the inner ring of the Communion tray for those who prefer.
What goes on at Immanuel? One great way to find out is to check out our calendar and news and events! You may also want to look at our individual ministry departments to see what is happening in those areas. There are also community projects, mission trips, service projects and volunteer opportunities. And we hope to keep growing and sharing Jesus in more ways.
How do I get involved? The opportunities are endless. Possibly you want to get involved in Bible study or join a small group study. (Small groups are an awesome way to get connected to other Christians in fellowship, Bible study and spiritual growth!). Maybe you simply want to see where you can volunteer or what’s available for your children or teens. Upcoming events would also give you the chance to fellowship with other believers.
How do I become a member? We don’t like the word ‘membership’ because the bible talks about discipleship. Jesus calls people to know Him, celebrate His love for them, and to share Him with others. Our Discovery Classes introduce you to Immanuel, but are in no way the end of one’s discipleship. If you want to connect with Immanuel our Discovery Classes are offered two or three times a year.
What if I want to get married at Immanuel? Please contact Danella Joslin, our Administrative Assistant. Click here to download our Wedding Guideline book.
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