What can I expect when I visit St. Mark’s Lutheran Church?
On your first visit to St. Mark’s, you should expect to be greeted and welcomed. It is our hope and goal to be welcoming to all that enter our doors. You can expect the presence of children and a congregation engaged in ministry. Announcements about upcoming events, information for the congregation and celebrations of the church family are offered as we gather. Following the announcements, a musical prelude prepares us for worship. The service follows and includes scripture, prayers, children’s sermon, sermon, hymns and Holy Communion. We encourage you to visit as often as you like and we welcome you to make St. Mark’s your home.
What kind of worship services do we offer?
We have two weekly traditional services – Sunday morning at 8:15 AM and 11:00 AM. We also offer a monthly contemporary/alternative worship service. The contemporary/alternative worship service is the second Sunday of the month at 9:45 AM in our fellowship hall.
What Kind of Lutherans are we?
There are many Lutheran denominations in the United States. St. Mark’s Lutheran Church is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). The ELCA is the largest Lutheran church body in the United States.
Where is your church located?
We are located at the corner of Londonderry Road and Arlington Avenue. Our actual address is 4200 Londonderry Road, Harrisburg, PA 17109.
Are my children welcome at the services?
Yes. We encourage children to attend church. We provide a children’s sermon at all three of our services.
What should I wear?
We want you to be comfortable – so, any dress attire is welcome. Some will wear business attire (suit/tie – dresses) and others will be casual. We have no dress policy and we encourage everyone to wear what is comfortable for them.
Where should I park?
We have plenty of parking available on both sides of the church and in the rear. In the front of the church there is handicapped parking for those with special needs.
How do you take Holy Communion?
We practice open table fellowship, meaning all who are baptized, regardless of denomination or age, are invited to receive Holy Communion with us. At the direction of the ushers, the congregation will proceed to the front of the church for the sacrament. If you can’t kneel at the altar – just continue to stand. In addition, anyone with special needs, that can’t walk to the front of the church, can receive Holy Communion at their pew.
Am I required to give an offering?
Offering is collected at all church services. The plate is passed by the ushers. As a congregation, we have no expectation for visitors to give. It is totally a free will offering.
Will I get lost in the service?
We provide all worship attendees with a bulletin that helps you follow along with the service. In addition, ushers are also available to answer any service questions.