Worship at Redeemer

Saturdays
5:00 PM Spiritmouth

For Lutherans, there are two essential elements for Christian worship: the proclamation of the Gospel (the Good News of God's forgiveness in Jesus Christ) and the proper administration of the Sacraments according to the Gospel. With these two essentials, worship is free to take forms that make sense to the people. Since different people make up life at Redeemer, it follows that we worship in different ways.

Our traditional liturgy (Sundays at 8:30 AM) follows a worship order that has taken shape over 2000 years of Christian history. "The Liturgy" consists of formal prayers, chants, canticles, and the rich tradition of Lutheran hymnody. Those who are used to worshipping in a more formal way are usually most comfortable with the liturgy. It is held in our sanctuary (see below.)

On Saturday evenings at 5 PM, and on Sunday mornings at 10:00 AM, we gather for a more "contemporary" version of the liturgy, a service of Word and Sacrament we call Feast and Celebration. This service is generally more relaxed - some might say chaotic! - with music accompanied by guitars, keyboard and drums. Currently, this service is held in our Multi-Purpose Room.

What do we mean by "Word and Sacrament?"

God offers and bestows his grace on human beings through the Word and the Sacraments, which are means of grace. God has entrusted to the Church the administration of these means of grace through the proclamation of the Word and the administration of the Sacraments.

The WORD

The Word is God's revelation of himself in Holy Scripture. There God has revealed his being, will and activity and purpose in bringing fallen humanity to repentance and faith, and to affect in people the Holy Spirit. The Word is the guide and support for our life in Christ.

Baptism

In Baptism we become members of the Church on earth. Luther states, "In Baptism, God forgives sin, delivers from death and the devil, and gives everlasting salvation to all who believe what he has promised."

In order that our children may enjoy the benefits of Baptism as soon as possible, parents are encouraged to present children for the sacrament in early infancy. Baptism takes place in the context of Sunday worship so that the congregation may witness and pray for the one being baptized.

Arangements should be made in advance to allow one of the pastors to visit the family for a pre-baptismal conference and instruction.

Since parents are sponsors, Godparents are not required. However, this is a meaningful tradition for families to continue, if they so desire.

Responsibilities of sponsors include praying for the child, reminding the parents of their baptismal promises, and setting a Christian example for the child. Sponsors should be active members of the Christian Church.

Holy Communion

The sacrament of the Lord's Supper is celebrated weekly during the worship services and at other special occasions. We welcome to the Lord's Table all who believe that in the bread and wine they receive the real presence of the Lord Jesus Christ and that through his body and blood he offers us the gift of eternal life.

Children who do not commune are invited to receive a blessing while their parents receive the sacrament. Children receive instruction for their first communion in the 5th grade.