God loves us and the whole creation. That is the beginning and summary of what Lutherans share with most other Christians. The God in which we believe is one who comes to us--seeking to have a relationship with us. It is in Jesus, the Christ, that we see the extent of how committed God is to bringing people back into a close and loving relationship. While no one can earn or even work his/her way to God, the Good News is that God bridges the gap. Our privilege is to respond, and to respond with worship, thanksgiving, and lives that try to live out what God is creating in us.
Some people are interested in some of the more specific beliefs or teachings of the Lutheran Church. Below are a few of those. Questions or concerns about these brief descriptions are encouraged! Let us know what they are: Contact us
All people everywhere and of every time who believe in God. The Holy Spirit calls people into fellowship in local gatherings of people to worship God and to be nurtured and strengthened for daily life.
Lutherans recognize differences in how to interpret Scripture. It is neither a science book nor a history book, but a book of faith that speaks to the Truth, and witnesses to the drama of God's saving care for God’s creation from beginning to end. The Bible helps to reveal the real Word of God, which is Jesus the Christ, who is the Word made flesh.
Special means by which God has promised to be present in physical ways. They are gifts of God, not something we earn. Because they are for our benefit, they are not magic. Our receiving them in faith helps us see up close what we sometimes think of as the "far-away" God. Lutherans have chosen to recognize the Lord's Supper and Baptism as two sacraments.
Baptism
This establishes a relationship and creates a new life within us. It is God's gift. Lutherans therefore emphasize that we can only respond to the gift. We baptize people of all ages.
Holy Communion
The Body and Blood of Christ are present in, with, and under the bread and wine. We say that Christ is really present in the giving of himself. Lutherans have varied practices on how frequently communion is offered.
Each congregation has freedom in worship details. Most Lutherans use a regular pattern for worship, including confession, hymns, scripture readings, sermon, offering, prayers, (communion). The use of symbols (such as a cross, clergy robe and vestments--stole, altar hangings, banners, etc.) helps us recognize that God comes to us in more ways than just a sermon. The purpose of worship is to help draw people close to God and to each other. It is to be a joyful and meaningful expression of God's love.
Dialogue with God--it involves speaking and listening. Prayer is personal, and also a part of the gathered community in worship. It is direct conversation with God.
Service
Lutherans have a wonderful tradition of reaching out to others in need. Through giving of ourselves, we practice what God has already done in our lives and the world. It feels good to serve. Such service is not limited to serving in the church. People serve others in community organizations and in the small ways they serve their neighbors.
Giving
Lutherans understand all of life to be a gift from God. We feel grateful for what we have been given and what we have "earned". We want to return thanks to God, as well as enable ministry in our midst. Included in that thanksgiving is wanting to give time, talents, and money. We do not go around saying what people "must" give. But we do feel good sharing a vision of life that knows the joy of giving--our time, our talents, and our money.