Frequently Asked Questions
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The Worship Service
The services focus on readings from the Bible. Music and singing are an important part of our services, too. Loud or soft, in unison or rich harmony, all our praises are music to God.
Each week our worship services are printed out in a worship folder and projected on TVs. The readings from the Bible for that week and prayers are printed for you. The words to the songs are projected on the screens.
Every church has its own style of worship. We hope you'll enjoy the services at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, but it might take a couple of Sundays to get used to our way of praising God together.
The Services usually include the following parts in a variety of forms:
- The Invocation - We call on the name of our Savior God as we praise him.
- Admitting Sins and Receiving Forgiveness - We acknowledge that we have not been or done what God asks us. Then we are assured of his forgiveness in Jesus.
- Bible Readings - We read selections from God's Word through the Old Testament prophets, Jesus' apostles, and in the Gospels. The pastor gives a short explanation for each reading.
- Message - Our pastor offers encouragement and instruction in a Bible-based message. Expect God's grace and guidance for dealing with problems as well as the promise of eternal life in heaven through Jesus.
- Response to the Word - We respond with offerings and prayers for the things God has promised to us and for strength to do what he has asked.
- Parting Blessing - We hear another assurance of God's care.
Mixed throughout these different parts of our worship are hymns and short songs of praise to God. Our worship uses traditional forms along with modern language and applications. They both give us the best from God's Church throughout the ages, and the Gospel message of the grace we received in our Savior. We hope you enjoy both.
"I rejoiced with those who said to me, 'Let us go to the house of the Lord.'" Psalm 122:1
Does it Matter What I Wear?
Sometimes people wonder how they are expected to dress at a church they've never visited. The Bible gives us no dress code, aside from simple decency and Christian humility, so Bethlehem Lutheran Church doesn't make any rules either.
Like most people, worship time is special to our members. This is often reflected in the way they dress. But the way you dress is a personal matter. You can dress casually and rejoice that we have a God who accepts us as we are. You can also dress more formally to reflect the awe and reverence we have for our Savior King.
On any Sunday at our church you may see running shoes and high heels, jeans and suits, open collars and ties, and even work uniforms. When a person dresses out of love for God, the choice of dress—casual or more formal—is acceptable to God...and us.
"Come! Whoever is thirsty, take the free gift of the water of life." Revelation 22:17
Three frequently heard questions...
"Are they going to made me stand up and say something if they notice I'm new?"
We promise you, we won't embarrass you in this or any other way. We want you to feel comfortable and at home with us. Church should be an enjoyable and uplifting experience. We'll do all we can so you can learn about your Savior. Come, relax and enjoy!
"What if my child is too noisy?"
We love children in the worship service. In fact, a children's bulletin matching the day's theme is available each week. However, if you feel they are causing a distraction, we have family room at the back for your use. Feel free to take your child to this area anytime during the service.
"Won't I feel out of place?"
We hope that this information will ease your mind, but if you have a question, please ask. There are ushers in the back of church (wearing name tags) who are happy to assist you in any way. All of our members are also great resources for answering questions. Feel free to say, "I'm new. What is this about?" Our congregation is very friendly and is happy to help.
Do you have other questions? Please contact a Pastor via email or phone, or ask anyone when you are here. We are happy to help!
