Which kind of Lutheran?
Most US Lutheran churches belong to one of three bodies: the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), the largest and more progressive; the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS), more conservative; and the smaller Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS). The worship looks much the same in all three; the main difference a visitor notices is communion.
The order of service
Lutheran services follow a liturgy printed in the bulletin or in the hymnal (Evangelical Lutheran Worship in the ELCA, the Lutheran Service Book in the LCMS):
- Gathering: confession and forgiveness, an opening hymn, the Kyrie and a hymn of praise.
- Word: readings from the Old Testament, a Psalm, the New Testament and the Gospel, then a 15 to 20 minute sermon, the Creed and prayers.
- Meal: the sharing of the peace, the offering and Holy Communion.
- Sending: a blessing and a closing hymn.
Lutherans are known for singing: hymns are a big part of the service and the congregation sings much of the liturgy too.
Communion
Lutherans believe Christ is truly present in the bread and wine. In ELCA churches, all baptized Christians are usually invited to receive. LCMS and WELS churches practice close communion: visitors who are not members of their church body are asked to speak to the pastor before receiving, and the bulletin usually explains this. Grape juice and gluten-free wafers are often available. If you prefer not to receive, stay seated or come forward with arms crossed for a blessing.
Families and fellowship
Many Lutheran churches hold Sunday school between services, and coffee hour afterwards is a tradition. Infants are baptized, often during the Sunday service, so you may see a baptism on your visit.