Finding Grace In Community: A Journey Through Faith And Service
Welcome to Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church
Welcome to Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, where we are a community of faith with the cross of Jesus Christ in our midst. As our name suggests, the grace of God shapes who we are as followers of Jesus. Our mission is to share God's love with each other, the community, and the world. This mission drives everything we do, from our worship services to our community outreach programs.
Our congregation has a rich history dating back to 1956 when we moved from our former location on the corner of Orange and Tennessee. The generosity and grace of this congregation have always been manifest in our community. When we made that significant move, pews and stained glass that we no longer needed were donated to other churches, demonstrating our commitment to spreading God's love beyond our walls.
Our Core Beliefs and Mission
At Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, we believe that grace is not just a concept but a way of life. The apostolic greeting "The grace of our Lord" is more than just words; it's a daily reminder of God's unending love and mercy. Our faith formation programs are designed to help members and friends of the congregation deepen their understanding of this grace and how it applies to their daily lives.
Christian education provides opportunities for faith formation for members and friends of the congregation. We offer a variety of programs, from Sunday school for children to Bible study groups for adults. These educational opportunities are crucial for building a strong foundation of faith and understanding God's word.
Special Services and Events
Throughout the year, we hold special services that bring our community together in worship and reflection. One of our most beloved traditions is the Christmas Eve candlelight service on December 24, 2025. This service is a beautiful way to celebrate the birth of Christ and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.
Ash Wednesday is another significant event in our liturgical calendar. This year, Ash Wednesday is on February 18th. We will hold a service of absolution and imposition of ashes at 12:00 noon in the chapel and at 6:00 p.m. for those who cannot attend during the day. These services mark the beginning of Lent and provide an opportunity for reflection and spiritual renewal.
Community Outreach and Social Ministry
Our commitment to sharing God's love extends beyond our church walls. This March, our social ministry appeal focuses on Anchor House, located in Auburndale, Florida. Anchor House is a Christian ministry located in Polk County, Florida, committed to reaching boys in crisis. This ministry provides a safe and nurturing environment for young boys who are facing difficult circumstances.
The work of Anchor House aligns perfectly with our mission to share God's love with the community. By supporting this ministry, we are living out our faith and making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. We encourage all members of our congregation to consider how they can contribute to this important cause.
Sermons and Worship Services
Our sermons and worship services are designed to inspire, educate, and challenge our congregation. We offer a variety of services throughout the week to accommodate different schedules and preferences. For those who prefer to listen to sermons at their convenience, we provide recordings organized by date and series.
On Sunday mornings, we hold our main worship service at 10:00 a.m. This service includes a sermon, hymns, prayers, and communion. It's a time for our community to come together, worship God, and support one another in our faith journey.
Returning to God with All Your Heart
The words of Marty Haugen remind us to "Return to God with all your heart, the source of grace and mercy." This call to return to God is at the heart of our faith and our community. We are constantly seeking ways to deepen our relationship with God and to live out His love in our daily lives.
"Come seek the tender faithfulness of God" is not just an invitation; it's a way of life for our congregation. We strive to create an environment where everyone feels welcome to explore their faith, ask questions, and grow spiritually. Whether you're a lifelong Lutheran or just beginning to explore Christianity, you'll find a place at Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church.
Conclusion
At Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, we are more than just a congregation; we are a family united by our faith in Jesus Christ and our commitment to sharing God's love. From our rich history to our vibrant present, we continue to be shaped by the grace of God and driven by our mission to make a difference in the world.
We invite you to join us on this journey of faith. Whether you're looking for a place to worship, opportunities for spiritual growth, or ways to serve your community, you'll find it here. Come experience the grace, love, and fellowship that make Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church a special place to call home.
