St. Luke Lutheran Church has shared the gospel of Jesus Christ in Taylorsville since 1893. Its motto, 'United in Hope, Joined in Faith,' reflects a congregation that says it is 'big enough to meet your needs and small enough to know your name.' St. Luke is known for proclaiming God's grace in a fallen world through a traditional liturgical Sunday service with some modern flair, welcoming worship without assigned seats, and ministries that bring people together around learning, food and support for families in Alexander County.
A Liturgical Sunday at 10:30 AM
Each Sunday at 10:30 AM, St. Luke gathers in the sanctuary for hymns, a children's sermon, Holy Communion, an offering, prayers and a sermon. St. Luke calls its worship 'a traditional liturgical service with some modern flair.' The welcome to visitors is direct: 'No assigned seats. Come as you are.'
People who prefer to remain in their cars can join the parking lot worship service on 88.3 AM. Bulletins are provided for those listening in their vehicles, and the Sacrament is offered on Communion Sundays. The church also shares worship online through its YouTube channel.
Sunday School for Children and Adults
Sunday School begins before worship at 9:30 AM. The morning opens in the sanctuary with songs and dancing led by the music coordinator. Classes for Pre-K through grade two and grades three through six begin at 9:50 AM, while two adult classes, including a senior class, meet from 9:30 to 10:20 AM. The gathering is a small-group ministry for studying God's Word, growing spiritually, building friendships and ministering to one another. Leah Robinson serves as Sunday School coordinator, Sarah Burgess as Sunday School director and Robin Reid as music director.
- Pre-K through grade two: 9:50 to 10:20 AM
- Grades three through six: 9:50 to 10:20 AM
- Adult classes: 9:30 to 10:20 AM
Bible Study and HOPE Circle
A Tuesday Bible study meets at 6:30 PM. HOPE Circle, a group of women, meets on the second Monday of each month for Bible study and discussion of community giving projects, and it welcomes new attendees. St. Luke Youth centers on connection with one another and a network of community support, with discipleship opportunities offered through the church's Facebook presence.
More Than 300 Hot Meals for Alexander County
The Loaves + Fishes Mobile Cafe is a combined ministry of 11 Alexander County churches. St. Luke volunteers, supported financially by Thrivent Action Teams and the church's ministry spending plan, meet two days a month to prepare more than 300 hot meals. The meals are distributed in downtown Taylorsville at the old First Methodist Church campus and in downtown Hiddenite, helping overcome hunger and food insecurity across the community.
St. Luke also has a long history of community benefit breakfasts for struggling individuals and families. When the church becomes aware of a need, it coordinates a Saturday morning breakfast that usually brings together more than 40 volunteers. No charge is made for the meals, although donations are welcome. After basic expenses are deducted, 100 percent of the donations are provided to support people going through difficult times.
Pastor James A. Dahl and St. Luke's Ministry
The Reverend James A. Dahl has led St. Luke since he was called in July 2023. A native of Durham who attended Elon College, he received his M.Div. from Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary. Before ministry, he retired from the Army after serving as a helicopter mechanic and field artillery officer, including three combat tours in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. He credits those experiences with deepening his appreciation for the Gospel and shaping his call to bring it to a broken world.
Finding St. Luke in Taylorsville
St. Luke Lutheran Church is at 1364 Church Road, Taylorsville, North Carolina 28681. Its office telephone is 828-632-8486, and its general email address is stluketaysecretary@gmail.com.