FIRST TIME VISTORS
Visitors are always welcome at Shepherd!
If you’re a first-time visitor, here’s what you can expect.
How We Approach Worship:
Worship is our central activity as a family of faith. It’s our weekly family gathering where we sing, pray, learn, and share a meal together. We gather around the table for communion on the first and third Sundays of the month throughout the Summer.. All are welcome to participate fully in each service. You don’t have to be Lutheran and you don’t have to be a member; all are welcome to sing, pray, learn, and celebrate communion with us. Worship services last about an hour.
Dress:
All ages come to worship in clothing suited to the weather, their personal needs, and comfort. We see everything from jeans, to business casual, to suits and dresses. Please come as you like; we are a no shame zone!
Communion:
Like a family gathering for Sunday dinner, all are welcome at this table where God is our holy parent and host. You don’t have to be a member of Shepherd and you don’t have to be Lutheran to partake in Holy Communion. As we take bread and wine, we remember that life is a gift from God and we are nourished by God’s love just as we’re nourished by food. Ushers will direct you to the front of the church, where a communion ministrer will share bread and wine or grape juice with you. We also have gluten free wafers. After receiving communion, you’re invited to return to your pew via the outside aisles. Don’t worry if your mobility prohibits you from coming to the front of the sanctuary. A pastor will bring communion to you, if it is your desire.
Children:
Children are always invited to participate in worship, and we like to hear our kids rustling around in the sanctuary. We realize there are times when worship is very difficult for young children and their families. We have a nursery and invite families to take advantage of this wonderful play space for their kids. During every service, kids are invited forward for a special children's message on the steps of the altar.
Welcome:
We invite you to visit the welcome desk (near the coat racks) before or after the worship service you attend. There, you’ll find a “connect card” where you can leave your personal information and recieve a free gift from our church family. In the upcoming week, a member of our welcome team, often a pastor, will contact you to learn more about you, and your family, and to answer any questions you may have about Shepherd. We also hope you’ll also introduce yourself to the staff after worship; they would love to personally welcome you to Shepherd.
New Member Class:
Interested in learning more about Shepherd or joining our church family? We offer a brief new member class that provides an opportunity learn about the mission and ministry of the church. One of our pastors will provide an overview of life at Shepherd and the many ways to get involved. Those who attend class will be warmly welcome as members of the congregation on the following Sunday. Please contact the church office for more information.