Valley Lutheran Church

FIRST VISIT

First time Sunday worship visitors often wonder: "What should I expect?"

Allow me to answer that before you visit...

1. When? Sunday worship service 10:00am.

2. Where? The old Highland Park School, 1301 Avon Street, just 2 blocks S of the hospital.

3. What to wear? Dress nice or casual, whichever you prefer.

4. What to bring? Not a thing, just a desire to worship God and grow in Christian faith.

5. What will happen as I enter the old Highland Park School lobby? A friendly member or I will be there to greet you and invite you to enter our worship area--the first room to the left after you enter the lobby. We’ll also hand you a hymnal and worship service bulletin.

6. Where do I sit? Anywhere you wish, except on the chair near the altar...that's my seat. Families with small children may wish to sit in back, in case they need a short break from the service.

7. What's in the hymnal? The hymnal or hymn book contains the liturgy (order of service) that we follow, plus the hymns and psalms that we sing.

8. What's in the bulletin? The bulletin or service folder contains an opening prayer or theme, the outline of the service, plus Bible readings, and the sermon outline.

9. What does the pastor do during the worship service? I lead our worship of God, introduce hymns, lead the liturgy & prayers, read and summarize Bible readings and preach a 20-minute sermon on one of the readings. By the way, when I face the altar, I'm leading our worshipers in prayer. When I face the audience, I'm speaking God's word and joining you in words of praise. I also wear a gown to help you focus on what I'm saying, not what I'm wearing.

10. What do members and visitors do during the worship service? Sing hymns, offer prayers, listen to Bible readings and the day's sermon and apply it to your life. At times during the service, the audience is asked to stand, ie. the confession of sins, the gospel reading, or the day's prayers.