FAQ – First Lutheran Manhattan | Faith, Worship & Community Church

At First Lutheran Manhattan, we understand that choosing a church home and engaging with a faith community can raise questions. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or considering becoming a member, we want to ensure that you have all the information you need to feel comfortable and informed. Our church is dedicated to creating an open, welcoming environment where you can grow in your faith, worship God, and connect with others.

Below are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about our church, our services, and what you can expect when you visit.

1. What are the service times at First Lutheran Manhattan?

We hold several worship services throughout the week to accommodate different schedules and preferences:

  • Sunday Morning Worship: 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM

  • Wednesday Evening Service: 7:00 PM (This is a more intimate, reflective service)

  • Special Services: We also hold special services for holidays, including Christmas, Easter, and other observances.

Our services are designed to be both uplifting and meaningful, with options for both traditional and contemporary worship. Whether you prefer an early service or later in the day, you’ll find a time that fits your needs.

2. What should I expect during a worship service?

At First Lutheran Manhattan, we offer a variety of worship experiences that blend traditional Lutheran elements with contemporary expressions of faith. Each service includes:

  • Singing: Both traditional hymns and contemporary worship songs are sung to create a dynamic atmosphere.

  • Scripture Readings: We read from the Bible, with a sermon that reflects on the message of the Scriptures and how it applies to our lives.

  • Communion: We offer Holy Communion every Sunday. If you’re a baptized Christian, you’re welcome to participate.

  • Prayer: We engage in prayer throughout the service, both collectively and individually, as we lift up the needs of our congregation and community.

Our goal is to create a welcoming and spiritual environment where all can come together to experience God’s presence and reflect on His Word.

3. How do I become a member of First Lutheran Manhattan?

We would love to have you become part of our church family! To become a member, you can:

  • Attend New Member Classes: These classes offer a great introduction to our church’s mission, history, and the Lutheran faith. They provide a space for you to ask questions and connect with other new members.

  • Meet with a Pastor: Our pastors are available for one-on-one meetings to discuss membership and guide you through the process. This is also a great time to talk about your spiritual journey and how you want to get involved.

  • Baptism: If you are not yet baptized, we can discuss the sacrament of baptism and what it means to be initiated into the Christian faith.

Becoming a member is a way to publicly commit to living out your faith in community with others. We believe that membership is not just about attending church but also about being an active part of our mission to serve God and others.

4. Do you offer programs for children and youth?

Yes! We believe that children and youth are an important part of our church family, and we have several programs designed to help them grow in their faith:

  • Sunday School: We offer a Sunday School program for children during the Sunday morning services. This is a great time for children to learn about the Bible, sing songs, and engage in age-appropriate activities.

  • Youth Group: Our youth group offers a space for teenagers to build friendships, grow in their faith, and serve others. Youth group activities include Bible studies, social events, mission trips, and service projects.

  • Vacation Bible School (VBS): During the summer, we host a week-long Vacation Bible School for children to engage in fun, interactive lessons and activities centered on Biblical themes.

Our goal is to help children and youth develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ in a nurturing and fun environment.

5. What is the Lutheran faith, and what do you believe?

As a Lutheran church, we follow the teachings of Martin Luther, a key figure in the Protestant Reformation. At the heart of Lutheranism is the belief that we are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, and based on the Scriptures alone. Some core beliefs of the Lutheran faith include:

  • Salvation by Grace: We believe that God’s grace, given through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, is the foundation of our salvation. It is not through our actions or good deeds but through God’s grace that we are saved.

  • The Authority of the Bible: We believe that the Bible is the inspired Word of God and the ultimate authority in all matters of faith and life.

  • The Sacraments: We believe in the importance of the sacraments of Holy Baptism and Holy Communion as means of grace, where God works in our lives to strengthen our faith.

Our worship services and teachings reflect these beliefs, and we welcome all who are seeking to grow in their faith and understanding of God.

6. Do you offer any support or counseling?

Yes, at First Lutheran Manhattan, we are committed to providing pastoral care and support to our congregation and the community. Whether you’re going through a difficult time, need spiritual guidance, or simply want someone to talk to, our pastors are available for counseling and prayer.

  • Pastoral Counseling: Our pastors are available to meet with individuals or couples for personal counseling, offering spiritual guidance and support.

  • Prayer Requests: We have a prayer ministry that lifts up the needs of our congregation. You can submit prayer requests online or in person during services.

  • Grief and Loss Support: We also offer support for those who are grieving or experiencing loss. Whether through individual meetings, group counseling, or support groups, we’re here to help.

At First Lutheran, we believe that no one should go through life’s challenges alone. Our church family is here to support you.

7. How can I get involved at First Lutheran Manhattan?

There are many ways to get involved at First Lutheran Manhattan. Here are just a few:

  • Volunteer: There are numerous opportunities to serve in the church, whether it’s helping with Sunday School, participating in community outreach programs, or assisting with worship services.

  • Small Groups: Join one of our small groups where you can engage in Bible studies, discussions, and fellowship with others in the church.

  • Missions and Outreach: Be part of our community outreach programs, helping those in need locally and globally through mission trips, food drives, and service projects.

Getting involved is a great way to deepen your faith and build relationships within the church community.

8. Do you offer any online resources?

Yes! We offer several online resources to help you stay connected and grow in your faith:

  • Live Stream Worship Services: If you’re unable to attend in person, we offer live streaming of our worship services on Sundays.

  • Sermons: You can watch or listen to past sermons on our website or social media channels.

  • Online Giving: We offer the convenience of online giving, allowing you to support the mission of First Lutheran Manhattan from wherever you are.

Our online presence is designed to keep you connected with the church, whether you’re at home, traveling, or unable to attend in person.

9. What is your approach to giving and tithing?

At First Lutheran Manhattan, we believe that giving is an important part of our spiritual journey. We encourage members to give as a reflection of their gratitude for God’s blessings. We offer multiple ways to give, including:

  • Online Giving: Convenient and secure online giving options are available on our website.

  • In-Person Giving: You can also give during our Sunday services.

  • Special Offerings: Throughout the year, we have special offerings for specific outreach initiatives or missions.

Tithing and giving are ways that we express our faith and contribute to the work God is doing through our church.

10. How can I contact First Lutheran Manhattan?

If you have any additional questions or would like more information, we invite you to reach out to us:

  • Phone: Call our church office at [phone number].

  • Email: You can email us at [email address] for general inquiries.

  • Office Hours: Our office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

We are here to answer your questions and assist you in any way we can.