God’s Grace Received: Word & Sacrament

At Immanuel Lutheran Church, we believe that God does not remain distant - He comes to us. Through His Word and Sacraments, God offers and delivers the forgiveness of sins, life, and eternal salvation as free gifts of His grace, earned by Christ on the cross.

What is a Sacrament?

In Lutheran teaching (LCMS), a Sacrament is a sacred act where simple elements (water, bread, wine) are joined with God’s Word to bring us His grace:

Holy Baptism: Water joined with God’s Word to wash away sin, rescue us from the power of the devil, give us the Holy Spirit, and welcome us into God's family (Matthew 28:19; Titus 3:5).

The Lord’s Supper (Holy Communion): Bread and wine that truly are Jesus’ body and blood, given for the forgiveness of our sins (Matthew 26:26 - 28; 1 Corinthians 10:16).

We also value Holy Absolution - receiving God's spoken forgiveness through confession.

Understanding Holy Communion at Immanuel

Holy Communion is a deep, intimate gift of grace, but it is also a powerful public expression of unity in doctrine and faith (1 Corinthians 10:17).

Because we take God’s Word seriously when it teaches that partaking in the Lord's Body and Blood requires self-examination and a shared confession of faith (1 Corinthians 11:27 - 29), we practice what is historically called Close Communion (or Closed Communion). Out of pastoral love and care for your spiritual well-being:

Out of love and spiritual care for everyone, we practice Close Communion:

Sharing One Faith: We invite members of Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod (LCMS) congregations who have been taught Lutheran doctrine to receive the Sacrament.

First-Time Guests & Visitors: If you are visiting for the first time or are new to Lutheran teaching, please speak with Pastor Akers or an usher before the service.

Receive a Blessing: You are warmly welcome to come forward during Communion for a blessing. Simply cross your arms over your chest at the rail.