| The Worship Service |
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About the Service Worship is the center of congregational life at St. Martin's. Worship is the outward expression of the communities' commitment to and love for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The structure and liturgy for St. Martin's worship services are rich in Lutheran history and tradition. Led by the pastors, lay leaders and musicians, prayer, music, and the Gospel message of the Christian faith are interwoven to create a beautiful and inspiring experience of the congregation's expression of faith. Worship Service TimesWorship services are held every Sunday morning at 8:30 and 11:00. All are welcome. From September through mid-June, except during Lent, St. Martin's offers a Wednesday night "EveningSong" service at 6:30 p.m. This is a half hour service of music and prayer. Also, St. Martin's is currently offering a once a month Sunday Contemporary worship at 12:15 p.m.
Holy Communion Holy Communion is celebrated each week alternatively at either the early or late service. On the first, third and fifth Sundays, Communion is at 8:30 a.m. On the second and fourth Sundays, Communion is at 11:00. On Festival Sundays, Communion is served at both services. The Lutheran faith acknowledges the real presence of Jesus crucified and risen in the Eucharist. All baptized Christians who affirm God's presence and forgiveness in Holy Communion are invited to join at the Lord’s table. Both wine and grape juice are available. (Those not receiving bread and wine are invited to come forward for a blessing.)ChildcareChildcare is provided during all services in the nursery. In addition, services can be heard from the church lounge. The Children's MessageThe pastors make every effort to include a children's message in the worship services. The children are called to the chancel area for this message. RefreshmentsCoffee and refreshments are available with the opportunity for fellowship between the services. Between ServicesSunday School is available for children and youth and Adult Forum is held between the early and late services. Confirmation and First Communion classes also meet at 9:45 a.m. Special ServicesSpecial services are also held to celebrate holy seasons during the year. For example, three services are held on Christmas Eve: one in the afternoon, usually at 3:00 p.m.; a family-oriented service in the early evening; and a Candlelight Communion service at 10:00 p.m. A Communion service is also offered on Christmas Day. Another special service is a Thursday evening Ascension Day Communion service in May. |