Bethany Lutheran Church
Deer River, Minnesota
 
 

Worship FAQs

 

Are children welcome in worship?

Absolutely!  The children's message is about 1/3 of the way into worship and children will be asked to come forward and sit on the altar steps with Pastor Lisa to learn about the designed gospel lesson in a kid-friendly way. Children are also welcome to the "Pray"ground new in fall 2021 where young children can move about, stretch out for some tummy time or do an art project.

 

Help your child socialize to church culture by teaching them how to use a hymnal, follow along in the bulletin, share the peace, respond to the prayers, give some of their allowance during the offering and participate in leadership roles with you, like ushering, greeting or providing fellowship hospitality.  

 

Who can take communion?

The Lord's Table is an open table.  That is to say that all baptized Christians, trusting that Christ is present in, with and under the bread and wine, are welcome to receive.

 

Although no particular age for first communion is prescribed by our church document, The Use of the Means of Grace, one guideline is offered.  Because admission to the Sacrament is by invitation of the Lord to the baptized, " baptized children begin to commune of a regular basis at a time determined through mutual conversation that includes the pastor, the child, and the parents or sponsors involved" (37E and 38B).  Please contact Pastor Lisa to begin this conversation.

 

What kind of worship service do you have?

Hopefully one that allows you to worship God and to be reminded of your call in baptism to love and serve others.  

Our service is usually one hour in length.

Our pastor wears a while alb (robe) and a stole (represents the gentle 'yoke' of ordination)

Communion is offered the first and third Sundays of the month.  

The color of the vestments on the altar change according to the church season.

Each week we listen to an Old Testament reading, a Psalm, a New Testament reading and a Gospel reading.  These readings are designated by the Revised Common Lectionary, a collection of readings based on the church year and used by many ecumenical partners (i.e. Anglican, Catholic, Methodist, Presbyterian, etc.)

During designated Sundays and on special holiday worship services, the choir and/or bell choir will share prepared selections.  

A bulletin (program) outlines the liturgy (literally, work of the people) so you know when to respond, sing, stand, etc.  

Bethany uses the hymnal called, Evangelical Lutheran Worship.  Generally, these are hymns with four-part harmonies and a very rich history.  Hymns are led by the piano.