WHO WE ARE: THE ELCA AND NEW LIFE LUTHERAN CHURCH
A Church Rooted in GraceThe Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with nearly 3.3 million members in over 8,900 congregations across all 50 states and the Caribbean. At New Life Lutheran Church, we are proud to be part of this vibrant community of faith.
WE ARE CHURCH
We believe that God, by grace, has created us to live in union with Jesus Christ and empowered us through the Holy Spirit to live faithful, fruitful lives (Ephesians 2:8–10).
Through the Word and Sacraments, we are continually formed and sustained as a community of faith. Even in the midst of life’s challenges, uncertainties, and imperfections, we live confidently and generously, trusting God's grace.
Through the Word and Sacraments, we are continually formed and sustained as a community of faith. Even in the midst of life’s challenges, uncertainties, and imperfections, we live confidently and generously, trusting God's grace.
WE ARE LUTHERAN
As Lutherans, we are centered in the Gospel: the good news of Jesus Christ crucified and risen for the life of the world. We walk by faith, not by sight—trusting God’s promises and proclaiming the power of God’s Word.
Our faith is shaped by Scripture, the Lutheran Confessions, and a commitment to the centrality of preaching, baptism, and Holy Communion. To be Lutheran is also to be ecumenical—called to unity and reconciliation within the whole Christian Church.
Our faith is shaped by Scripture, the Lutheran Confessions, and a commitment to the centrality of preaching, baptism, and Holy Communion. To be Lutheran is also to be ecumenical—called to unity and reconciliation within the whole Christian Church.
WE ARE CHURCH TOGETHER
Through baptism, we are joined not only to Christ but also to one another—in the ELCA, in the global Lutheran community, and with all Christians.
Jesus has broken down dividing walls and made us one body. This unity in Christ calls us to honor diversity and work for justice and inclusion. We strive for full participation across cultures, languages, and experiences, recognizing and confronting racism, sexism, classism, and other barriers to belonging.
Jesus has broken down dividing walls and made us one body. This unity in Christ calls us to honor diversity and work for justice and inclusion. We strive for full participation across cultures, languages, and experiences, recognizing and confronting racism, sexism, classism, and other barriers to belonging.
WE ARE CHURCH FOR THE SAKE OF THE WORLD
Christ sets us free to serve others in love. Every part of our lives—our work, relationships, and service—flows from a bold confidence in God’s grace.
As a church, we support one another in daily vocations, build partnerships, and seek justice and reconciliation in our communities and beyond. We are especially attentive to the needs of the vulnerable, the marginalized, and the displaced.
Through education, moral reflection, and interfaith dialogue, we witness to God’s love and seek to be instruments of peace and healing in the world.
As a church, we support one another in daily vocations, build partnerships, and seek justice and reconciliation in our communities and beyond. We are especially attentive to the needs of the vulnerable, the marginalized, and the displaced.
Through education, moral reflection, and interfaith dialogue, we witness to God’s love and seek to be instruments of peace and healing in the world.
THE SACRAMENTS
Holy Baptism
In Baptism, through water and God’s Word, we are forgiven, made part of the body of Christ, and given the gift of the Holy Spirit. It is the foundation of Christian life and discipleship.
Baptisms are scheduled by contacting the pastor. A home visit typically precedes the baptism to discuss the meaning and practice of this sacrament. Sponsors (godparents) are encouraged but not required, and should be faithful Christian mentors. Any worship gathering is a fitting time for Baptism. In cases of serious illness, please contact the pastor immediately.
Holy Communion
We celebrate the Lord’s Supper every Sunday (except the fifth Sunday of a month) and on major festivals. All are welcome at our open table, regardless of background or affiliation.
We believe that Jesus is truly present in the bread and wine—offering forgiveness, life, and salvation. This is more than a symbol; it is a real encounter with God’s grace.
Children are welcome to come forward for a blessing. First Communion instruction is offered during the 2nd grade year of Spiritual Formation.
In Baptism, through water and God’s Word, we are forgiven, made part of the body of Christ, and given the gift of the Holy Spirit. It is the foundation of Christian life and discipleship.
Baptisms are scheduled by contacting the pastor. A home visit typically precedes the baptism to discuss the meaning and practice of this sacrament. Sponsors (godparents) are encouraged but not required, and should be faithful Christian mentors. Any worship gathering is a fitting time for Baptism. In cases of serious illness, please contact the pastor immediately.
Holy Communion
We celebrate the Lord’s Supper every Sunday (except the fifth Sunday of a month) and on major festivals. All are welcome at our open table, regardless of background or affiliation.
We believe that Jesus is truly present in the bread and wine—offering forgiveness, life, and salvation. This is more than a symbol; it is a real encounter with God’s grace.
Children are welcome to come forward for a blessing. First Communion instruction is offered during the 2nd grade year of Spiritual Formation.
