WHAT TO EXPECT
Whether you are a visitor from near or far, we are honored and excited to have you with us. Please join us in worship and feel the warmth and joy of “LCGS!” Here are answers to frequently asked questions about our congregation. Informational brochures about many of our ministries are available at the Welcome Counter in the Narthex. Please take copies of anything that interest you. When are services? Sunday services are at 8:30 and 11 a.m. (one service at 9:30 during the summer) Holiday Worship Times may vary from the normal schedule. Please check the announcements on the home page for Holiday worship times. Can I receive communion even though I'm not a member or Lutheran? Holy Communion is celebrated at every Sunday service. We welcome to the table all who proclaim with us that Jesus Christ is truly present in the bread and the wine. Children who have not yet received First Communion instruction are welcome to come to the front to receive a blessing. Pew communion is available if you are unable to come to the altar rail. Please ask an usher if you need assistance. I have young children. Is there any help during services? Yes! Good Shepherd has many families with young children, and children are always welcome in our services. Items from the "Worship Tools Bar" or a children's bulletin (both located in the Narthex) may help our younger friends engage at their own level during worship. However, if you should feel the need to step out of the service to calm a little one, we have a Family Room off our sanctuary at the rear, where you can see and hear the service via a window and speakers. How can I meet people? One great way to meet new friends is to attend our Sunday Connect Hour between services. There is a coffee social , Adult Bible Study, Adults Connect group with education and discussion opportunities, and KidsConnect program for children ages 3 through grade 12. If you would like to have your children visit KidsConnect, please check with an usher or a greeter and they will be happy to show you and your children our meeting spaces, and introduce you to our KidsConnect leaders. Connect programs begin at 9:45 a.m. and continues for an hour, from the second Sunday in September through mid-June. What should I wear? Dress as you feel most comfortable, whether in jeans or business casual or suit and tie. Your dress is a personal matter before God. It’s up to you! Should I bring anything? No, but if you wish, you could bring a Bible and a pen and paper to take notes. Be sure to pick up a bulletin from one of our ushers so you can participate in the worship service. The announcement booklet contains our contact information and news about our ministries and activities. Will I have to stand up and introduce myself? No! You may notice people wearing name tags. Please make yourself one (blank ones are located in the coatroom and in the folders in the pews) so that we may greet you by name. If you would like a permanent name tag made for you, please fill out a yellow request form (also in the coatroom) and hand to an usher or drop in the offering plate. If you have a question, please ask someone for help. Don’t hesitate to say, “Hello, I’m visiting. What is this about?” Our congregation is friendly and happy to have the chance to welcome you! Where should I go once inside the building? The covered walkway on the right side of our Emmorton Road entrance leads you to our offices and sanctuary. The door on the left leads you to the Ministry Room and education wing, where Sunday groups meet. The main walkway at the rear of our complex leads you to the sanctuary on the left or education wing on the right. If you’re not sure where to go, please ask one of the greeters or anyone for assistance. Our main complex is wheelchair accessible. Where should I park? You can park in any of our lots. The sanctuary and education wing are located at the rear of our complex. Our offices and Good Shepherd Lutheran Preschool are located at the front. Can I get baptized, receive First Communion, or be confirmed or married at Good Shepherd? Please speak with Pastor if you have any questions about baptism, Holy Communion, confirmation, marriage, or any other special needs. I don’t know much about the Bible or the Lutheran Church. We’re all on a journey of learning and faith, so don’t worry. Church and Bible study are opportunities to grow in our knowledge and faith in Jesus. You don’t have to know anything about the Bible or religion to attend our services. You don’t have to be a member to join in Bible study. I have children. Do you have any activities for them? Yes! There are many opportunities for youth at LCGS, including: • Quarterly Family Fun Nights • Youth group for youth in grades 6-12 • And much more! Please see the Youth Tab for more information. |
