What to expect

We understand that it can be somewhat scary to walk into an unfamiliar place, in particular if you are not used to churches.  We would love to make it as comfortable and non-threatening as possible, so we have outlined some essential information about what you could expect for your first time at Trinity Lutheran Church.

Dress

One may ask, "How should I dress for the worship service?"  Like most people, our members try to make their worship time an important and special time.  This is often demonstrated in the way they may dress. 

But dress is a personal matter of worship before God.  One may dress casually and rejoice that in having a God who will accept us as we are. Another may dress to reflect the awe and reverence we have for our Lord and Savior.  Bottom line remains ....  when a person dresses out of love for God, the choice of dress (casual or formal) is acceptable to God .... and us.

Offerings

There are many questions one could ask regarding church offerings.  Some examples may include: "When do they take the offering?" "How is the money collected?" "How much am I expected to give?" "Do they want contributions from visitors also?"

The Bible teaches us that our offerings to God should reflect the belief that all we have is His gift to us.  With our offerings, we worship and honor God.

Like many Christians,  our members present offerings to God through their church.  Since offerings are gifts for the love of God, no one dictates what each person shall give.  We pass an offering plate during the service so that our worship may include bringing gifts to our Lord.  (Worshippers can use offering envelopes to keep gifts a private matter which is not known to other members, but is known to God).

Children may bring change their parents give them.  Someone may give cash or write a check.  Whichever way, we are remembering Jesus and giving gifts out of love for him. 

Initially, you may wish to learn more about Trinity Lutheran's ministry before bringing your offerings through our church.  But you are welcomed to participate as you heart leads you to give.

The Worst that Could Happen

Going to church for a first time can be intimidating.  Here are some common worries:

"What if they make me stand up and say something?!!"  Rest assured, we won't embarrass you in any way.  Our church wants you to be as comfortable as possible. Worship should always be enjoyable and uplifting experience.  We will do all we can so that you can learn about our Savior.

"I just know my child will be noisy and will bother everyone."  We welcome all children to attend our services.  If you do feel uncomfortable with your child's noise level, we do have a cry room located in the back of the sanctuary, and a nursery in the Child Development Center during the 10:30 service.

"I know I will feel out of place." I hope that this visitor's guide will help you to feel at ease.  If you do have any questions, don't hesitate to ask the host/hostess at the information desk in the lobby.  Our members and staff will offer their hospitality and guide you in the right direction!

"I am scared I will say or do something wrong."  Every one of us has felt this way in a new situation.  We hope you see the folks at Trinity Lutheran Church to be ordinary, friendly people like yourself.  We will accept you as you are and help you become what Christ wants you to be. 

"I just want to watch at first, and I know they will try to sign me up in activities right away."  It is unpleasant to receive undue pressure as if we were victims of some "membership drive" looking for numbers only. We feel that church membership should be on a volunteer basis, and that the most important aspect is to trust in the Lord Jesus Christ for forgiveness and salvation.  It does take time for this to be cultivated.  We respect the need for you to evaluate your faith and decide your involvement.  While we do encourage worship attendance and Christian involvement, we try to do so in a comfortable and pressure-free environment. 

"I don't know that much about the Bible."  Worship services and Bible Study are opportunities to grow in knowledge of the Bible and faith in Jesus.  You will not have to answer any questions you don't feel comfortable answering.  Remember, as Christians we do not always have all the answers, and sometimes the best response to a question can be, "I don't know."

A Final Thought

We pray that this page has helped answer some of your questions and helped alleviate your fears.  Our goals as a congregation are quite simple.  We want to grow in faith and share that faith with people like you. All we do is meant to work towards those two goals.  We pray that nothing more stands in your way from learning about your Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Please do not hesitate to email or call if you have any questions, or if there is anything Trinity Lutheran can do for you. 

God's blessings, and looking forward to seeing you in church.

Pastor Paul Cloeter   (320) 252-3670