DONATE
Our worship service is outlined every week in our worship folder, which you will receive as you enter the sanctuary. Sometimes we use the order of service from the hymnal; in such instance page references will be announced.
Our services focus on readings from the Bible—God’s Word. Music and singing also play important parts in our worship.
We encourage families to worship together. It is not at all common to hear children’s cries during the hymns, lessons, and sermons. If however, you feel that your little one needs some personal attention, you are welcome to use the nursery, found at the back left corner of the church.
The Bible makes no demands about how someone should dress. St. John’s does not have a “dress code.” At any given service, you might see running shoes and high heels, jeans and suits, open collars and ties. When a person dresses out of love for Jesus, the choice of dress— casual or formal— is acceptable to God…and to us!
St. John’s is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Synod. The Evangelical Lutheran Synod believes and confesses:
• The Bible is God’s Word, inspired by the Holy Spirit, and therefore without error. It is the only authority for Christian faith, knowledge, and life.
• The Bible’s primary purpose is to reveal Jesus Christ—God’s Son—as the Savior of the world.
Our members bring offerings to God through their church.
As our guest, we do not expect you to contribute an offering, nor do we want to pressure you into doing so. You may wish to learn more about our ministry before bringing your offerings to God through our church, but you are welcome to participate as your heart leads you to give. Offering plates are available as you enter and exit the sanctuary (where the service takes place).
Pastor Patrick Ernst was trained at Bethany Lutheran College and Bethany Lutheran Theological Seminary (Mankato, Minnesota). Before coming to St. John’s, he completed his pastoral vicarage at Faith Lutheran Church in San Antonio, Texas.
I am Pastor Ernst, the pastor of St. John’s since 2019. In John 10, Jesus says about himself, “I am the good shepherd” (John 10:11). Did you know that “pastor” is the Latin word for “shepherd”? As a pastor, my role is to be a representative of Christ among the people. I’m not up to the task—believe me, I have as much of a need for God’s forgiveness and grace as you!—but Jesus is the one doing the work. My job is to speak his word to his people.
As a fourth-generation member of St. John’s, I’m proud of my church. My great-grandfather, Leonard Veitengruber, was one of the charter members and the first church organist. It was a struggle to leave our old church on Tuscola Street that Grandpa Veitengruber built, but I also think he’d be proud of what we’ve accomplished since 1880. God has blessed us richly with a beautiful sanctuary and a loving church family. I try to do my part to give back to the church for what God has given us. I’m currently am serving on the church council, participate in choir, the Christmas decorating committee, and help out with the video recording of our services.
Board Member
As a member of St John's Lutheran Church, I have a lot of fond memories to reflect on and hold in my heart. I was baptized on Apr 15, 1942 and confirmed on Apr 3, 1955 by Pastor August Kehrberg. Our Sunday School started in Sept 1948 and I still have certificates of attendance and a notebook holding many of our weekly studies. Among my teachers were Ruth Rupprecht, Virginia Boldt and Irene Zeilinger.
Our two sons, Mark and Todd were baptized and confirmed also at St John's, and during their youth I helped with Vacation Bible School.
My memories of church dinners, Friday night fish frys, and Fall bazaars are many. I can still see Mrs Reif making cole slaw in a large gratin pan for the dinners. Members working together and sharing their talents and life stories was evident.
We felt Blessed to have members take responsibility for the many church committees, especially after the tornado that prompted us to build at our present location. Their commitment has given us a beautiful gathering place that welcome all to hear the Word of our Lord.
Church family became evident to me when my husband Dave passed away. They were there with love and support, and it was so appreciated.
I am thankful for my church and community that share my hopes and dreams, and always with that familiar smile of WELCOME!!!!
Member