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What to Expect

We understand it can be scary to walk into an unfamiliar place, particularly if you are not used to churches.  We like to make it as comfortable as possible so we have outlined some information about what you may expect on your first visit to Messiah Lutheran Church.

“How should I dress for the worship service?”  One may dress casually and rejoice in having a God who accepts us as we are.  Another may dress to reflect their awe and reverence for our Lord and Savior.  The bottom line is, when a person dresses out of love for God, the choice of dress is acceptable to God, and to us.

“Will they make me stand up and talk about myself during the service?”  No.  It’s that simple.  We won’t ask you to do that.

"How long are the services?" Our services are close to an hour.

“My children may be noisy and bother other people.”  We welcome all children, including the noisy ones.  We have a pew with books and toys especially for children.  If you still feel uncomfortable, we have a narthex with screens where you can observe the service while your child plays with toys provided.

“I might say or do something wrong.”  Whenever we are in new situations we have felt this way. We hope you see us at Messiah Lutheran Church to be ordinary people, like yourself. It is easy to know when to participate during the service.  It is fine with us whether you choose to observe or participate.    

“I don’t know that much about the Bible.”  Worship and Bible Class are where we all have opportunities to learn more about faith in Jesus.  We are on this journey together.  Join us!

"What's the difference between the 8:00 am and 10:00 am services?"  The 8:00 am is shorter because it is a Service of the Word.  A Service of the Word has no singing.  The 10:00 am service has music.  The scripture readings and sermon are the same at each service.

Worship Services at 8:00 am and 10:00 am.  Bible Class is at 9:15 am on Sunday Mornings, Thursday mornings at 10:00 am.

A Final Thought

We pray this page has answered some of your questions.  Our goals as a congregation are very simple.  We want to grow in faith and share that faith with other people.  We pray you have been encouraged by this page to come and learn about your Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any  other questions.  We look forward to seeing you in church.

God’s blessings, 

Pastor Rick Rice

Pastor@Messiah-Lutheran.us  
 (831)423-8330  
801 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA  95060

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