Common Questions about
Our Savior Lutheran Church and School
in Lansing, MI
What can I expect when I come to Our Savior?
You can expect to be greeted warmly at the door
and receive a bulletin for that worship service.
The worship service will
include music with the words to songs projected on large screens
so everyone can follow along.
There will be announcements and a message from a pastor
that will last about 25 minutes. An outline for the message is
typically provided in the bulletin and on the screens so that
the learning is more interactive. Along these same lines, there
may be dramas that illustrate that day's message. In many services there will be Holy Communion and in some baptisms.
Is there something for my kids to do?
Absolutely! We have awesome children's programs during the 9:20-10:30 am time on Sundays. We offer Kingdom Quest, which is our FUN Bible learning version of Sunday School for 3-year-olds through 6th Grade (the kids are in age-specific groups).
For 7th through 12th graders, check out our Youth Ministry Page. This dynamic teen-relevant ministry features small group Bible study, mission opportunities, activities and even their own Wednesday evening program.
During the 9:30-10:30 am hour on Sunday, we offer a class for parents with two year olds to help these young children grow in love for Jesus.
For the youngest tykes (ages 1-4 years), we have a nursery during the 10:45am Sunday service with a qualified loving staff in a safe and comfortable area with age-appropriate toys.
What should I wear?
Wear what you feel is comfortable and appropriate. We do not have a dress code, and we certainly wouldn't want you to worry about this! Some people wear jeans and a t-shirt while others come in "business casual" attire. Some people prefer to dress up; others prefer to dress down. We are more concerned about your heart and your needs than we are about your clothing.
What if I want to receive Holy Communion (the Lord's Supper)?
Jesus called us to celebrate Holy Communion until He returns so that we may have forgiveness of sins, strengthening of faith, and the power to live God-pleasing lives.
God's Word tells us that when we receive the Lord's Supper, we are not merely receiving bread and wine, but in a supernatural way, we are receiving the true, real body and blood of Jesus Christ. Jesus said in Matthew 26:26-30, "This is my body. this is my blood;" not "this represents my body" or "this symbolizes my blood."
Because Jesus calls us to examine ourselves before partaking in communion (1 Corinthians 11:28 - A man ought to examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup.), guests to Our Savior are respectfully asked to speak to one of the pastors about the next communion class.
We also offer adult instruction through our Discover class. If you have doubts or do not understand our beliefs about the Lord's Supper, please call our Church Office and ask to speak to one of the pastors, who would be happy to help you understand the meaning of the Lord's Supper.
What if I am not Lutheran?
Being Lutheran isn't nearly as important as simply having a heart to seek Christ. If you want to learn more about Lutheran teachings, we invite you to our Discover class, but it's certainly not a requirement for attending. While Our Savior is a member of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (www.lcms.org), we are open to all people seeking to grow in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
How do I become a member?
We offer a class called Discover for membership. This seven session class is held three times a year. Discover explains Our Savior beliefs, explores what happens at Our Savior, and shares what it means to be a member. The Discover class is an overview of Lutheran doctrine, Holy Communion and Baptism, and answers questions you may have about God, the Bible, and Lutheran beliefs.
I can't make it on Sunday morning. Is there another worship time for me?
Absolutely! In addition to the two services on Sunday (8:00 & 10:45 am), we have one Monday evenings (6:30 pm).
What if I haven't been to church in a long time?
Not a problem! In fact, we don't care if you have ever been to church. Each weekend many people visit Our Savior for the first time. Our worship services are easy to follow and don't require that you have any past church experience.
I'm struggling with some personal problems. Is help available?
Yes. Many people, including Christians, face challenges in their personal and family lives. These can include addictions, marital problems, financial crises, abuse, depression, divorce, deaths of loved ones, physical trauma and emotional problems. We want to support you and encourage healing in your life however possible. It is admirable and courageous to recognize that you need support in sorting out life's difficulties.
You may request to meet with one of our pastors to discuss your problem in confidence. We also have support groups and individual counseling through our professionally certified Christian counselor. Anyone may call 800-968-4696 to set up a confidential appointment. Our Savior also works closely with respected Christian counseling services in the Lansing community and would be happy to make a recommendation to you.
The opportunities are endless. Possibly you want to get involved in Bible study or join a TLC Group. (TLC Groups are an awesome way to get connected to other Christians in small group fellowship!). Maybe you simply want to see where you can volunteer or what's available for your children or teens. Look on our 'Ministries and Programs' page for a list of great opportunities. Upcoming events would also give you the chance to fellowship with other believers. There are also mission trips, service projects, and volunteer opportunities. You'll soon discover that LOTS goes on at Our Savior!