We would love the chance to welcome you to St. James/Santiago Apóstol Lutheran Church. Here are answers to questions you might have about a first visit:
What are the worship times on Sunday?
We are currently offering bilingual worship services on Sunday at 11:00 AM
We have a Coffee Hour/Fellowship Time/Learning Hour for all ages between services from 11:00 am-12:00 noon.
We also offer Special prayer times by request.
How do I get there?
St. James Lutheran Church is conveniently located just north of Loop 610 in the Oak Forest neighborhood of Houston at 1602 W. 43rd Street between Ella Boulevard and T.C. Jester. Parking is located on both sides of the church. Enter the church building through the double doors in front or through the side doors to reach our lobby, which leads to the Sanctuary (the worship space) and Fellowship Hall (for coffee and conversation).
A Metro bus stop is also located right in front of St. James Lutheran Church. For metro bus schedules and routes, visit Ride Metro.
What should I wear to church?
Come as you are. Dress in clothing that makes you feel comfortable. Sunday morning attire at St. James/Santiago Apóstol ranges from casual to dressy.
What about children?
Children and their families are vital to our life and ministry at St. James/Santiago Apóstol. Children are always welcome in worship. In the cry of a baby, or the fussiness of a toddler, we hear a new voice that speaks to God, reminding us that children are a blessing and a joy. If children ever need a break from worship, we have a nursery in the front hallway by the front doors.
Do you have Sunday school opportunities for all ages?
Due to our transitional period, Sunday school classes are temporarily suspended. We encourage parents to bring their kids and make them part of our worship service.
Can I take part in the sacrament of Holy Communion?
Yes, we share the Lord’s Supper every Sunday in an “open table” setting. Everyone is invited and encouraged to receive Jesus in the bread and wine at Communion.
Ok, but what about that offering part?
We think of your first visit as your gift to us, so please do not feel obligated to give when the offering plate is passed around during the service. You may give if you want. Either way is fine. We understand our offering as an act of worship that glorifies God and makes ministry possible. The offering we collect at every service supports St. James/Santiago Apóstol Lutheran Church and its outreach ministries in this neighborhood of Oak Forest/Garden Oaks/North Houston. A portion also goes to our international church body, the ELCA, for mission and ministry around the world.
What do Lutherans believe?
Lutherans believe that God’s love is a free gift for all of us, which we can never earn, but only live in thanks for that gift. We trust that Jesus saves us and helps us experience God most deeply and clearly, so that we can feel that love, share that love with others, and live a life of purpose and peace.
I am not a Lutheran. Can I attend your church?
Yes, Lutheranism is a faith tradition that is open to all regardless of background. We are a global church movement with millions of members in Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. We invite you to learn more about our church and find out how we can help you along life’s path.
What is the ELCA?
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with nearly 3.5 million members in more than 9,100 worshiping communities across the 50 states and in the Caribbean region. Known as the church of “God’s work. Our hands,” the ELCA emphasizes the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, unity among Christians and service in the world. The ELCA’s roots are in the writings of the German church reformer Martin Luther. The ELCA has 65 geographic areas or “synods” and our congregation is a part of the Texas-Louisiana Gulf Coast Synod.
So . . . it’s been a while . . . .
If it’s been a long time since you’ve been to church, we especially welcome you! Our mission is to help you grow in your relationship with God and with all people. Our worship services are designed to hear God’s Word and join us with God’s people of all times and places. We pray that you will be blessed and encouraged by worshiping here. No matter who you are, God knows you and God loves you. We hope that our website will help answer your questions and encourage you to visit us. We look forward to meeting you! If you have any other questions, please call or send us an email.
