French River Lutheran Church
5310 Ryan Road
Duluth, MN 55804
frlc5310@gmail.com
218.525.5659
Steps for Becoming a Member
We believe that joining a congregation is essential to living a life of faith in Jesus Christ. It is our mission to help people of all ages become active and engaged followers of Christ. Please know that all programs, activities and opportunities are available to you regardless of your membership status. We welcome all. Here is an overview of how you can join this journey with us.
Step 1 (Worship):
You are invited to worship with the congregation. Come and worship at our services and various activities to be sure French River Lutheran Church fits as your spiritual home. By attending worship services, you will get an impression of our congregation. It will allow you to hear our pastor preach the Word of God from a Lutheran perspective. You will meet other Christians who are following Christ as members of this congregation.
Step 2 (Interest in Becoming a Member):
At this point you may have some questions about the congregation. You may want to set up a time to meet with our pastor. You can simply introduce yourself before or after a worship service and the pastor will be happy to set up a time to meet with you. You can also email or call the pastor or church office with questions. If you would like more information on how to join French River Lutheran Church or information on the next New Member Class gathering, contact the office at 218.525.5659. For those who have not been baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, we encourage you to have a conversation with our pastor. Parents seeking Holy Baptism for their infant children are likewise asked to visit with our pastor.
Step 3 (New Member Classes):
We have two one-hour session classes to discuss the basic Lutheran teachings and orientation with the ministries of FRLC. The purpose of these sessions is to allow time for people to get to know one another and the many programs and ministries here at FRLC. The first session is intended for those who do not have a Lutheran background, as we focus on the teachings of the Lutheran church. This first session can also serve as a good refresher course for those joining FRLC through transfer or for our current members. The second class is about FRLC and our community. These classes will help you determine if you would like to join the FRLC community of faith. New members are expected to attend both New Member classes. However, if you are transferring from another Lutheran church the first session is not necessary.
If you have any questions about the New Member classes, or anything regarding FRLC, please contact the office at 218.525.5659.
Step 4 (New Member Sunday):
After completing the above steps and deciding that FRLC is a great fit as your church home, you will have the opportunity to officially join our congregation. The pastor will take you through the membership process. We recognize new members during Sunday morning service. The service is followed by a New Member Fellowship for you, your family and friends.
Step 5 (Follow-up):
About six months after joining French River Lutheran Church (FRLC), our pastor will check-in to see how things are going.
- Are there other ways that FRLC can be of help to you?
- Are you feeling at home here?
- How might we better connect, grow, serve and go together?
Step 6 (Connect, Grow and Serve):
Continue to worship with us and pick one or more of the areas below to become involved...
- Connect - get to know other Christians here at FRLC and encourage one another.
- Grow - study God's word; increase your understanding of God's active role in your life
- Serve - each of us has been given talents to make.
