Welcome to First St John
Embracing all in Jesus Christ’s name
Welcome, we hoped you might stop by…
Not everyone feels welcome at church, and visiting for the first time can be intimidating. Here at First St John, we embrace all with grace and acceptance. Regardless of background or beliefs, we invite you to share in our community, understanding, and care. Together, let’s cultivate a space of warmth, support, and understanding, where each unique individual enriches the vibrant tapestry of our congregation’s life.
From Our Pastor
First St John Lutheran congregation has a long and rich tradition of ministry and service in the name of Jesus Christ. We continue to look to the future for new possibilities and blessings from God. We believe God makes all tings new, and we hope this is true for your life.
We are a community of people called through faith by Jesus Christ to make disciples of all whom we serve. As we gather in worship, we proclaim the gospel by sharing Scripture, Sacraments, and song. We are empowered to go forth to serve the community to the glory of God.
It is our desire that people come to place their trust in Christ to forgive them and lead them, and that they grow in their relationship with him. We feel God is doing extraordinary things among extraordinary people and would love to see you be a part.
We give thanks for the love, community, and joy revealed to us through Jesus Christ, and we look forward to sharing these wondrous gifts with others.
May the power of God’s presence strengthen and bless you always.
Sincerely in Christ’s Love,
Pastor Jerald K. Rayl
P.S. One of the best ways to get engaged at First St John is to join us for worship. We know that visiting a Church for the first time can be overwhelming, so we hope to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Please read through our FAQs, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is worship like?
Picture this: as you walk through the doors of First St John, you’re greeted by warm smiles and a sense of belonging. The sanctuary is filled with a peaceful ambiance, as soft music resonates in the air. Take a seat among a diverse group of individuals, all united in their faith journey.
As the service begins, the melodic sound of hymns uplifts the room, and the gentle glow of light creates a serene atmosphere. Our pastor’s words are both comforting and thought-provoking, guiding us through scripture and inspiring reflections.
If you prefer you can watch worship online, we provide live feed of our service, as well as recorded video of previous services.
I have children. How does worship work for us?
Children ages 3 through 5th grade will meet at 9:15 am for Sunday School in the basement of the church (JAM Room). 2nd year catechism classes will meet every other Sunday at 11:45 am. Our nursery is in the church basement and is currently unstaffed; you are welcome to sit with your child. Adiaper changing table is available in the ladies restroom in the basement of the church.
How should we dress for worship?
Our congregation typically dresses casual and comfortable. Men wear slacks and a collared shirt, while woman may choose a modest dress, skirt, or dress pants with a blouse. We don’t judge a book by the cover, so come dressed so that you are comfortable.
During Communion what should I do?
All baptized Christians, believing that our Lord Jesus Christ is truly present in the bread and wine of Holy Communion, bringing to us the gift of forgiveness and the promise of eternal life, are welcome to gather at the Lord’s table. Infants, children and others who have not be baptized are welcome to come to receive a blessing; please make an X with your arms across your chest. If you wish to receive apple juice instead of wine, place your hand over your shoulder as you approach the person distributing the wine.
Do we need to give an offering? How does that work?
We believe a guest’s presence is their gift. However, if you do want to give a donation, there are offering envelopes in the pews. Just place your gift in the envelope to be collected by the ushers during collection. All donations are placed in general fund unless specific designation is annotated. In addition, you can use the DONATE button on top right of this page to make an online donation, using our secure payment transaction process.
How do people follow along with worship? Will I be able to keep up?
First St John is blessed with overhead monitors which presents all service-related content. Although we distribute a service bulletin, so you can use it as well and/or take it home for further review. However, you can follow the service very easily by just watching the monitors. If you would like to be paired with someone to share the service with, contact the church office or ask an usher.
Where should I park? How do I get to the worship area?
First St John is blessed with very large parking lots across the street from the church and handicapped parking beside and behind the church. Enter the church from either the front or side doors. Greeters will meet you at the door and assist you with any questions or directions needed.
A church property map and directions can be seen by clicking on this link.
I'm nervous in new social situations. Will I have to talk to people?
Worship can be a private thing for folks, if that’s you please know we respect your feelings. Get involved as much or little as you would like. We don’t judge anyone and always try to make visitors feel at home. It’s OK to come right as the service is starting and leave immediately afterward. You can also try out the online worship.
I have a disability. Can I still participate in worship?
Of course you can, and please ask the greeter or usher for any assistance you need. We provide the following:
* Lift chair to get from the side door upstairs to the chapel and downstairs to the restrooms.
* Elevator service to the Dayschool floors which connects to the chapel.
* Limited wheelchair access
* Handicap Parking
* Large overhead monitors to view service content
* Hearing devices for hearing impaired
Ask the greeters/ushers, or use our CONTACT button on the top right of the screen, for assistance with anything.
People like me aren't welcome at every church. What about yours?
Our Dayschool families and multi-generational families provide First St John with many age groups and interests. Children from baptism to seniors; young families, single parent families, retired families, and homebound families, we have them all.
We try to view people as Jesus did, excited to include all Gods children. We believe in fairness, diversity, and have family-friendly restrooms.
Great Groups for Getting Started
Building Maps and Directions
