St. John Lutheran Church

Overview

St. John Lutheran Church is a congregation within the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), located in Fargo, North Dakota. As an inclusive Christian community, it emphasizes the love of God for all creation and seeks to be a welcoming place for a diverse congregation. The church is characterized by its commitment to community service, racial equity, and justice initiatives.

Mission and Vision

The mission of St. John Lutheran Church can be summarized with the phrase: “Welcomed in Christ. Called to community. Sent to serve.” This reflects the church's dedication to fostering a supportive environment for worship while actively engaging in service to the community. The congregation aims to see Christ in everyone, irrespective of their background, and functions as a gathering place for all individuals to share in faith and fellowship.

Worship Services

Worship at St. John Lutheran Church is held regularly, with services taking place on Sunday mornings. The typical schedule includes:

• 8:30 AM: Worship (in-person and available via live streaming)
• 10:45 AM: Worship (in-person and available via live streaming)
• Fellowship Hour: Between services, featuring coffee and snacks.
• Sunday School: Programs for children from ages three to the fifth grade occur concurrently during the fellowship hour.

In addition to Sunday services, St. John Lutheran Church offers mid-week worship experiences, particularly during the Lenten season, which includes community meals and special services.

Community Engagement

The church prides itself on active community engagement, offering various programs and ministries aimed at serving the needs of both the congregation and the wider community. Events such as community meals, fellowship gatherings, and service opportunities allow members to connect and contribute to local and global missions.

Organizational Structure

As part of the ELCA, St. John Lutheran Church operates as an independent nonprofit organization, adhering to the principles and governance practices established by the national denomination. The congregation is involved in various ELCA initiatives, which promote social justice, outreach, and mission work both domestically and internationally.

Inclusivity and Diversity

St. John Lutheran Church embraces a strong commitment to inclusivity, affirming the worth of all individuals regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, race, or background. This ethos is embedded in their worship, outreach, and ministry efforts, fostering an environment where everyone can feel accepted and valued.

Conclusion

St. John Lutheran Church stands as a vibrant community dedicated to worship, service, and inclusivity. Its members are encouraged to live out their faith actively, making a difference in the lives of others while deepening their relationship with God and each other.