Who We Are
New Life Lutheran Church
A Community of Faith, Inclusion, Family, and Grace
At New Life, we are more than a congregation; we are a vibrant community. Community at New Life means finding a place where you truly belong, surrounded by a supportive network that encourages and uplifts each member. "So we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another." - Romans 12:5 (NRSVue)
Inclusion is at the heart of our mission. We believe that when we say "all are welcome," we truly mean it. Our doors are open to everyone, regardless of their background, as we strive to create a space that reflects the diversity and richness of God's creation. We joyfully host an open table of Holy Communion for the sinner and the saint alike. "For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him." - Romans 10:12 (NRSVue)
Being Family-Oriented is fundamental to our identity. We cherish the joyful sounds of children during our gatherings, understanding that they are vital members of our congregation. We provide a nurturing environment that supports families on their journey of faith, helping them grow together and deepen their spiritual connections. "But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.’" - Matthew 19:14 (NRSVue)
Above all, we are Grace-Centered. This means leading with grace in all that we do, especially when faced with challenges. We believe in showing the same unconditional love and forgiveness that God shows us, creating a community that lives by grace in thoughts, words, and actions. Just ask us, grace abounds here! "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God." - Ephesians 2:8 (NRSVue)
Join us at New Life Lutheran Church as we live out these values every day, creating a welcoming and loving community where everyone can find their place and purpose.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
A Community of Faith, Inclusion, Family, and Grace
At New Life, we are more than a congregation; we are a vibrant community. Community at New Life means finding a place where you truly belong, surrounded by a supportive network that encourages and uplifts each member. "So we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another." - Romans 12:5 (NRSVue)
Inclusion is at the heart of our mission. We believe that when we say "all are welcome," we truly mean it. Our doors are open to everyone, regardless of their background, as we strive to create a space that reflects the diversity and richness of God's creation. We joyfully host an open table of Holy Communion for the sinner and the saint alike. "For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; the same Lord is Lord of all and is generous to all who call on him." - Romans 10:12 (NRSVue)
Being Family-Oriented is fundamental to our identity. We cherish the joyful sounds of children during our gatherings, understanding that they are vital members of our congregation. We provide a nurturing environment that supports families on their journey of faith, helping them grow together and deepen their spiritual connections. "But Jesus said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.’" - Matthew 19:14 (NRSVue)
Above all, we are Grace-Centered. This means leading with grace in all that we do, especially when faced with challenges. We believe in showing the same unconditional love and forgiveness that God shows us, creating a community that lives by grace in thoughts, words, and actions. Just ask us, grace abounds here! "For by grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God." - Ephesians 2:8 (NRSVue)
Join us at New Life Lutheran Church as we live out these values every day, creating a welcoming and loving community where everyone can find their place and purpose.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Our History
A group of card players at Echo Valley Country Club felt God calling them to start a church for the then new Lakewood Township just north of Norwalk, IA. More than 7 different Christian organizations were contacted until the American Lutheran Church felt called to support a mission start congregation. The first parish worker knocked on more than 1,600 doors in Norwalk and South Des Moines and identified 100 families interested in starting a church. The first church gatherings were held at Echo Valley, at the first pastor’s home (9009 Maplecrest Drive) and then at the Norwalk High School Community. The church was officially organized June 20, 1971. 47 children participated in the first Vacation Bible School that year. The church building was dedicated on April 15,1973. A growing church needed more space and additions to the building were made in 1985 and again in 1996.
We have hosted the Norwalk Area Food Pantry for nearly 20 years because we take seriously Jesus call in Matthew 25 to feed the hungry in our community.
Come Join Us this Sunday for Worship at 8:30 & 10:30 am.
Visitors are not just welcome here, they are expected!
A group of card players at Echo Valley Country Club felt God calling them to start a church for the then new Lakewood Township just north of Norwalk, IA. More than 7 different Christian organizations were contacted until the American Lutheran Church felt called to support a mission start congregation. The first parish worker knocked on more than 1,600 doors in Norwalk and South Des Moines and identified 100 families interested in starting a church. The first church gatherings were held at Echo Valley, at the first pastor’s home (9009 Maplecrest Drive) and then at the Norwalk High School Community. The church was officially organized June 20, 1971. 47 children participated in the first Vacation Bible School that year. The church building was dedicated on April 15,1973. A growing church needed more space and additions to the building were made in 1985 and again in 1996.
We have hosted the Norwalk Area Food Pantry for nearly 20 years because we take seriously Jesus call in Matthew 25 to feed the hungry in our community.
Come Join Us this Sunday for Worship at 8:30 & 10:30 am.
Visitors are not just welcome here, they are expected!
