October 8, 2008

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a difference in Lutheran Churches?
Yes the Evanglical Lutheran Church in America emphasizes God's grace as its heart and center. We welcome everyone to worship with us.

Can non-members particapate in youth and church activites?
Certainly! Everyone is welcome.

Do you baptize, marry, and perform funerals for non-members?
Yes. We view these activities as outreach and strive to follow Jesus call to minister to the whole world.

Do you serve open Communion?
Yes. The only prerequisite is to be a sinner in need of God's forgiveness.

Do you have both traditional and contempary Services?
Yes. Please see the services listings under the Worship link.

Do you have a "Cry Room" and Nursery during services?
Yes. Conveniently located with worship audio "piped in."

Can your members join Service Clubs?
Yes, at the same time we recognize that there is only one Lord and Savior - Jesus the Christ.

How many members does St. Paul's have?
There are 1700 baptized members. Our average worship attendance is 375.

What is confirmation and when does it begin?
Confirmation is the program for youth in grades 7-8 where students are encouraged to learn about and grow in faith.

What is the age of First Communion?
Since we understand communion as God forgiving us, Holy Communion is offered to all the baptized. The age of first communion is determined by the parents in consultation with the pastor. First communion is offered to any age level and is usually completed by the time a person is in 5th grade.

What are our core beliefs?
We are a church that proclaims that God is known through the Trinity, God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. We are saved from our sinful selves by God's grace (God's love in action) given to us as a gift through Jesus Christ. God's grace comes to us through the word and the sacraments of Holy Baptism and Holy Communion. Sacraments are those actions commanded by Jesus Christ that have a physical element and bring us God's grace. In Baptism, God reaches out to us and claims us as God's own. "You are mine," says God. From this time on we are part of God's family. The water of baptism washes away our sinfulness every day of our lives. In Holy Communion, God brings us forgiveness of sins through the body and blood of Christ. Christ is present in the bread and wine. We can feel God's forgiveness spread throughout our bodies and our lives.

How do I join?
If you are Lutheran, we can simply transfer your membership. If you are from another denomination and are already baptized, we simply ask that you visit with Pastor to become acquainted with St. Paul's. If you are not baptized, then membership comes when you are baptized. We recognize all Christian baptisms.