Frequently Asked Questions

What is St. Paul's worship style?  We believe God has given us a rich heritage to celebrate and learn.  Our worship is a blended service of both contemporary and traditional Christian music, designed to be understandable and inspirational for everybody.  We are non-liturgical and the Pastor wears a suit, not a robe.  The worship is simple and prayers are spontaneous, not read. 

How does someone become involved in our church?  Just come on Sunday morning at the Service time at 9:15 AM.  Following worship you can attend Sunday School, which is offered for people of all ages.  We have a special class for those of college and post college ages.  Throughout the week there are activities for folks of all ages and different interests, which are listed in our Sunday morning bulletin and on our website. 

What do I wear to worship?  St. Paul's has no "dress code"!  Some tend to dress up a bit, dresses and sport coats, but others come as they are, sweaters, Dockers, jeans, whatever is comfortable.  The European-American Christian tradition was to dress in your best for Sunday.  Today we dress comfortably, but generally wear what we would for a nice casual time with friends.  

How can I become a member? Several times a year St. Paul's offers a New Members' Class that meets for three Sundays during the Sunday School hour. These sessions cover 1) What does it mean to be a Christian?  2) What does it mean to be a Lutheran?  and 3) What does it mean to be a member of St. Paul's?  These sessions are informal, have a little homework reading, class discussion, a movie and a fun time of meeting some new friends!  St. Paul's receives as members both those who profess faith in Jesus Christ or are seeking a relationship with Him. 

Does it cost money to join our church?  No.  There is no financial requirement.  Christians do live a life in response to God's love.  St. Paul's supports missionaries all around the world and does bold creative ministry in the core city.  We invite all who attend to become a part of these ministries.

What is Communion and who is eligible to receive it at St. Paul's?  We believe that Jesus Christ comes to us in his supper, as we receive him as bread and wine (or grape juice).  Because Jesus said, ' (John 6:51-57)    I am the living bread that came down from heaven. If anyone eats of this bread, he will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world..."   [55] Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise him up at the last day... [56] Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in him.  [57] Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me.'  

We invite all who believe Jesus is present in his Supper to receive him when we share his Supper, normally the first Sunday of every month, plus Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Easter Sonrise service and other special occasions.  Children may be trained to receive the Lord's Supper whenever their parents feel it is appropriate for them, typically in mid-grade school.  All children who are not yet communing are invited to the altar with their parents for a blessing prayer.