Going for the first time...

[Mk85stl]

Hello, I'm new here, obviously.

This weekend I'm going to be attending a Lutheran church for the first time. I've been to baptist (about 90% of the churches around here) and pentecostal, but they didn't seem to fit. I've read a lot about different denominations and Lutheran speaks to me.

The problem I'm having is that I'm a very shy person and I'd like to know what to expect in general when going. Any advice would be helpful Also, should I bring my own bible with me?

Thanks in advance.

 

[LilLamb219]

Which synod? Do you know if it's a traditional or contemporary service you'll be attending?

Normally, the readings from the bible are either printed out or there are bibles in the pews, so you probably don't need to bring one unless you're also planning on staying for the Bible Study (if they have one).

At my church, it is very traditional and follows a liturgy. There are 4 different ones in our hymnal and you just follow along. Don't sit in the very first pew unless you plan on standing still while everyone else is seated! That's happened to some newbies who went for a baptism even though people around them were trying to get their attention to sit.

And don't sit in back either

You might be greeted at the door by a greeter and just let that person know you are new to the church and even to Lutheranism. If the pastor is available you might be introduced to him at that time...if not, most likely you will meet him after the service.

Take heed of all the scripture used within the liturgical service (if you go to a traditional church) and also the hymns are filled with God's Word Enjoy and let us know how it goes!

 

[Mk85stl]

Sorry, I forgot to mention it's LCMS and it's very traditional from what I've been told.

Thanks for answering, it sounds like about what I was expecting

 

[Luther073082]

Sorry, I forgot to mention it's LCMS and it's very traditional from what I've been told.

Thanks for answering, it sounds like about what I was expecting

Lutheran services are usually pretty easy to follow along. The trick is more or less to learn the meanings and importance of each part of the service.

If there is communion you probably should avoid taking communion until you are sure that you agree with our teachings and doctrines. When/if you come to agreement with the teachings of the church then you should speak with the pastor about communion. By this time hopefully he'll be working with you anyways.

Decisions on who should take communion and who shouldn't are up to the pastor, so you should talk to the pastor and get his ok before taking communion.

As Lillamb said, Lutheran churchs don't usually require one's bible to be with them during services. You might want to bring one if you go to a bible study before or after service, however even then most churchs will have extra bibles around to supply to people who forgot one. I personally bring my bible but leave it in my car during worship and then go out and get it and my Book of Concord before bible study.

If you have any questions about the service or confessional Lutheran teachings, don't be afraid to ask them on here.

 

[LilLamb219]

The Lutheran Liturgy - It's Biblical Roots

I love the above page because it's a wonderful explanation of the liturgy as it flows through the service

 

[MaryEmily]

In most parishes I've been in, the liturgy for the most part is printed out in the bulletin that is handed out. On the song board up in the chancel is the page the service starts on along with the hymns.

It flows pretty quickly and goes along in the book (minus the readings which aren't printed in the hymnbook - the OT, Epistles and Gospel readings). The confession may be in a different spot but the pastor usually says "join with us as we say the confession on page...." and then he will clue you in on which creed is recited, either Nicene or Apostles. For communion Sundays, it's the Nicene and Apostles when there isn't communion.

Hope you enjoy it. You in St. Louis? (I am) guessed from your sig

 

[Mk85stl]

Thanks again for the info. I'm so excited to go!

Also, I'm not in St. Louis, it's just where I was born. I live about 60 miles south of there now.

 

[Mk85stl]

Enjoy and let us know how it goes!

I went tonight and it was wonderful. I think I've found a new home.

 

[MaryEmily]

Congratulations! I'm so glad you found a good home.

 

[Mk85stl]

I have another question...how do I know when I'm ready to receive communion?

The reason I ask here instead at church is because I'm pretty shy...it feels very awkward not to do it, but I want to make sure I'm doing the right thing.

Thanks for your answers

 

[MaryEmily]

Give the pastor a call and talk with him. He'll be used to the question so don't worry.

 

[bach90]

Glad you found a new church home! The best person you could speak to is the Pastor. He will be more than happy to speak with you about communicant membership. Generally most Churches have an adult membership class where you learn the Small Catechism which is "a Short and Brief Summary of all the Holy Scriptures." After instruction you are confirmed and receive the Sacrament. Blessings as you explore communicant membership in the Lutheran Church!

P.S. I can understand feeling awkward about not receiving communion. However keep in mind that the people at Church aren't going to be eyeing you to see what you do and if you do or don't receive communion. Most Churches also allow people to approach the altar for a blessing if you don't want to stay in the pews while people are going up.

 

[bach90]

Also you can check out Steadfast Lutherans » Notes on the Liturgy for some mini-articles on the different part of the liturgy so you can gain a deeper understanding of it. Don't be discouraged if you don't get it right away, the best way to learn is by attending!