How do I find the church?
Salem services take place in the SpringHouse Ministry Center. (Check out the Find Us page.) Since there are different spaces in the building for worship services, sometimes we’re upstairs, sometimes we’re downstairs. When in doubt, look for directions inside the main entrance. Or, simply ask someone for help. We don’t bite!
What should I wear?
Our style is relatively casual around Salem. Come as is comfortable for you. Feel free to dress in shorts or jeans, or if you’re in the mood to dress up, then dress up.
Is child care available?
Childcare is provided each Sunday starting at 9:15 AM. Our child care providers are employees of Salem Lutheran, Lyndale United Church of Christ and First Christian Church, and have undergone an interview process, background check, and training. They enjoy working with kids and strive to offer kids eight years and under a safe and engaging space when they aren’t active in the worship services. It is common for kids to come and go in to worship service, and families can determine how much of the service they’d like their kids to participate in.
Who can participate in communion?
Our open table policy welcomes everyone to communion, regardless of church affiliation (or un-affiliation, as the case may be). We believe that Jesus is the host, and we also believe that Jesus welcomes all.
How does Communion happen? (And where do I kneel?)
At Salem, you won’t find any kneeling pads, because those who are able take communion standing up. We proceed in a single line to the altar, and we commune by intinction. This means that you receive the body of Christ (the bread) and then dip it into the blood of Christ (wine or white grape juice – you choose the chalice). Our tradition of intinction makes for a portable “communion table,” so if you can’t easily proceed to the altar, we can bring communion to you. And if you need a gluten-free option, we have that too – just ask the communion server.
Do kids take communion at Salem?
At Salem, kids of all ages are welcome to receive the bread and wine or grape juice. Communion is a favorite part of the service for many of our kids (including toddlers and preschoolers), and the age at which they begin to participate is entirely up to their families. It is also just fine for kids to simply come forward for a blessing.
How do you worship at Salem?
We start Sunday worship at 9:30 AM. Worship is often done both in person and online via YouTube. For more information on each, visit the Salem Worship page.
Does attending worship mean I have to commit to something?
Nope! Some folks who attend want to get connected immediately, others favor anonymity, and most find a gentle middle ground. During most services, we pass around a visitor book. If you’d like to be connected, feel free to leave contact information; if not, no worries, it’s fine to just show up and worship.