Andrews
HOW TO JOIN THE CHURCH?
We rejoice in your interest in joining our Lutheran faith community!
At the heart of membership is a shared commitment to growing in God’s Word, the Lutheran confession of
faith, and active participation in the life of the Church. Here’s how the process unfolds:
1. Express Your Interest
Begin by contacting our pastor or church office. We’ll warmly guide you through the steps,
answer questions, and discuss your faith journey. Whether you’re new to Lutheranism or
transferring from another congregation, we’re here to walk with you.
2. Learn the Foundations: Study the Small Catechism
Central to becoming a member is learning Luther’s Small Catechism—a timeless summary
of Lutheran teaching that anchors us in Scripture. Written by Martin Luther in 1529, it
explains:
as mere doctrine but as the foundation for a life shaped by Christ’s love. Questions and
discussion are encouraged—this is a journey of understanding, not just memorization!
3. Affirm Your Faith
After studying, you’ll confess the faith publicly. For those new to Lutheranism, this may
include:
This step reflects Jesus’ call: “Everyone who acknowledges me before others, I will also
acknowledge before my Father in heaven” (Matthew 10:32).
4. Live as a Member: Worship, Serve, and Grow
Membership is a lifelong journey! As part of our family, you will:
Why the Small Catechism?
Luther designed the catechism to teach the faith “in a simple, plain, and small way.” By
engaging with it, you join generations of Lutherans who’ve clung to God’s promises and
shared His mercy with the world.
Next Steps
Ready to begin? Contact us here to start your catechetical journey. We’ll pray for you
as you explore the riches of Lutheran teaching—and we can’t wait to welcome you into our
church family!
“Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all
wisdom.” —Colossians 3:16
At the heart of membership is a shared commitment to growing in God’s Word, the Lutheran confession of
faith, and active participation in the life of the Church. Here’s how the process unfolds:
1. Express Your Interest
Begin by contacting our pastor or church office. We’ll warmly guide you through the steps,
answer questions, and discuss your faith journey. Whether you’re new to Lutheranism or
transferring from another congregation, we’re here to walk with you.
2. Learn the Foundations: Study the Small Catechism
Central to becoming a member is learning Luther’s Small Catechism—a timeless summary
of Lutheran teaching that anchors us in Scripture. Written by Martin Luther in 1529, it
explains:
- The Ten Commandments (God’s Law and our need for grace),
- The Apostles’ Creed (the Triune God’s work of salvation),
- The Lord’s Prayer (how we commune with God),
- The Sacraments of Baptism and Holy Communion,
- Confession and Forgiveness.
as mere doctrine but as the foundation for a life shaped by Christ’s love. Questions and
discussion are encouraged—this is a journey of understanding, not just memorization!
3. Affirm Your Faith
After studying, you’ll confess the faith publicly. For those new to Lutheranism, this may
include:
- Baptism (if not previously baptized in a Christian tradition),
- Confirmation or a Rite of Reception, where you affirm the teachings of the Lutheran Church.
- Responding to vows of belief in the Triune God and commitment to the Church’s
This step reflects Jesus’ call: “Everyone who acknowledges me before others, I will also
acknowledge before my Father in heaven” (Matthew 10:32).
4. Live as a Member: Worship, Serve, and Grow
Membership is a lifelong journey! As part of our family, you will:
- Worship weekly to receive God’s gifts in Word and Sacrament.
- Serve others using your gifts, living out the “priesthood of all believers” (1 Peter 2:9).
- Continue growing through Bible study, prayer, and fellowship.
Why the Small Catechism?
Luther designed the catechism to teach the faith “in a simple, plain, and small way.” By
engaging with it, you join generations of Lutherans who’ve clung to God’s promises and
shared His mercy with the world.
Next Steps
Ready to begin? Contact us here to start your catechetical journey. We’ll pray for you
as you explore the riches of Lutheran teaching—and we can’t wait to welcome you into our
church family!
“Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all
wisdom.” —Colossians 3:16
