We hope that the information below will help to answer any questions that you have about what to expect when visiting Christ Lutheran. We encourage you to explore the website, but more importantly we want you to visit us and discover all that there is to experience at our church!
Our Location
We are located in Fairfax City near Paul VI High school and Merchant’s Tire. Click on this link to get a detailed map from Google. We have lots of parking including handicap spaces around the back of the church. Our church is also wheelchair accessible.
Good Times to Visit
Sunday at 10:00 a.m. – Traditional Service with special music and Holy Communion
Sunday School Classes for all ages at 8:45 a.m. When you arrive you will find Greeters and Ushers in the lobby of the church who will gladly answer any questions you may have, and help you to get situated. There are cards for newcomers in the pews which we hope you will take a moment to complete. We also encourage you pick up a Welcome Flier with information which you will find near the entrance.
Recommended Attire
Worship is rest, spiritual nurture and spending time with God, not so much worrying about your wardrobe. Christ Lutheran welcomes all who come to worship and we have no dress code. Worshippers at Christ Lutheran wear anything from jeans to suits. Your participation, and openness to the Word matter most. So dress in a way that is comfortable for you.
How Worship Works
Whether you are a long-time Lutheran, come from another tradition, or are perhaps making your first visit, there is no need to worry. Our service is simple to understand and easy to follow. Everything you need to know is printed in the weekly bulletin which you will receive as you enter the Sanctuary. The Minister and Assisting Ministers will guide you every step of the way. If our style of worship is new to you, feel free to sing along or just listen and observe. Worship is not so much about “doing” for God as it is about “being” with God. We gather to give thanks. It’s not a contest, so please be patient with yourself if parts are unfamiliar.
Our Policy on Children
No need to worry. At Christ Lutheran we understand children. They are an important part of the the Christ Lutheran family. If you prefer, we have a full nursery available upon request that provides child care for infants and toddlers. Each Sunday children are invited to come forward for a short Children’s time where they will get a brief explanation of the week’s lesson. Speakers in the nursery and the lobby (Narthex) allow you to listen to the service even if you need to take your child out of the Sanctuary.
Recommend Offering Amount
Will you be expected to make an offering? No! Members of Christ Lutheran commit themselves to “God’s work – Our hands.” We respond to God’s gracious providing, and support our mission through our contributions. If you are new to Christ Lutheran, please come to worship as our guest. During each service, offering plates are passed, but we do not expect or require visitors to contribute. You are, of course, free to contribute if you so desire, but feel free to let this time in God’s presence be God’s gift to you. Generally, followers of Jesus feel great joy in giving, as all things come to us by God’s grace as a gift. Giving leads to deeper awareness of the gifts we have been given, and to thankfulness and to feeling a part of God’s work of salvation. Regular giving is a part of discipleship, and traditionally the 10% tithe can serve as a personal giving goal.
Communion
Perhaps the best summary of God’s Good News in Christ is “hospitality.” If you are hungry and thirsty for God’s love and direction for your life, you are welcome at God’s table. All followers of Jesus are welcome at Holy Communion. If you (and/or your children) have received Holy Communion in another church, you are welcome to participate here. If it’s new to you, our Pastor or an assisting minister would be happy to talk with you about it before or after worship. To receive Communion at the altar, come forward by the side aisle (the ushers give directions), take a small glass from the trays at the front, or sip from the shared chalice, and extend your open hands, palm upward (so the minister knows you are communing). A piece of bread or a wafer (gluten free is also available) – “The Body of Christ, given for you” – will be placed in your hand. Then wine, (or grape juice) is given with the words, “The Blood of Christ, shed for you.” Again, if this is new to you, we’d be happy to explain the who, what, where, why, and how. It was new to all of us once, too. Those who do not wish to commune are invited to come forward to receive a blessing.