EXPAND THE TABLE
Faith Lutheran Church strives to be a community where faith and friendships are nurtured in a safe, accepting, and affirming space. Saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, we live out our baptismal promises as we worship, learn, and serve together. All have a place at God’s table of grace. All are welcome to participate in the ministry of Jesus which we share.
As Faith Lutheran celebrates its 40th Anniversary in 2025, we are embarking on a spiritual journey to Expand the Table. Our three areas of focus will be:
1. Set a Place for Everyone
As we work to Expand the Table it is important to remember to set a place for everyone and create a welcoming space for all. Events and small group opportunities will be available to expand our awareness of hospitality and inclusion. Every Faith Lutheran member is encouraged to invite a friend or family member to at least one event over the summer!
2. Serve our Neighbors
Serving All is a core value and an integral part of Faith Lutheran’s identity. Faith will continue to strengthen partnerships both locally and globally, following Christ’s call to serve and be served by our neighbors near and far. Watch for ways in which we Expand the Table by loving and serving our neighbors.
3. Feed our Souls
We will feed our souls as we are nourished spiritually through worship, bible studies, dinner groups and fellowship events.
Kick-Off Celebration
On Sunday, May 18 we will share in a celebration and kick-off our summer/fall theme: Expand the Table. Festival worship is at 8:15 and 10:30 featuring all music ensembles. Brunch will be served at 9:15. Free-will donations will be received. Help with brunch on Saturday or Sunday shifts.
Small Group Opportunities
“Expand the Table” Small Group Study
Dive deep into the congregation-wide theme “Expand the Table” this summer by joining a small group for food, fellowship, and Bible study. The summer Bible study opens biblically-based conversations about how we Faith Lutheran Church strives to be a community where all have a place at God’s table of grace. Sign up online today or in the church Commons. You may choose to be assigned to a group or self-select your group. To foster good conversation, a group of 6-8 people is suggested for the study. The curriculum will be available on Sunday, May 18.
“Now is the Time” Small Group Study
Join others for a 5-session study of "Now Is the Time: A Study Guide for ELCA Declaration to People of African Descent." In the declaration, the ELCA "apologizes to people of African descent for its historical complicity in slavery and its enduring legacy of racism in the United States and globally. We lament the white church's failure to work for the abolition of slavery and the perpetuation of racism in this church."
As we Expand the Table, this study helps congregations wrestle with the meaning of the declaration, adopted at the 2019 Churchwide Assembly, and its accompanying explanation. "Now Is the Time" stresses realism, self-examination and accountability as the church acknowledges and apologizes for the history and impact of slavery and systemic racism. The study guide focuses on deepening our understanding of this history as participants engage in often-difficult conversation and reflection to move the church toward racial healing and justice. Click below for the participant materials. Copies are also available in the Commons at Faith Lutheran. Dates and meeting times will be publicized soon.
CONGREGATIONAL EVENTS
Expand the Table Congregational Cookout
On Wednesday, July 23 from 5:00—9:00 pm a congregational cookout will be held at Walnut Woods State Park Lodge (3155 Walnut Woods Dr., WDM). Hot dogs, hamburgers, lemonade, s’mores, and table service will be provided. A free-will offering will be received. Please bring a salad, side dish, or dessert to share, as well as beverages (alcohol is allowed), and a lawn chair. There will be games and activities for all ages. Everyone will gather in the Lodge at 6:30 for a summertime hymn sing. This event will occur rain-or-shine, as the lodge and outdoor patio are covered. There are opportunities to help with grilling, s’mores supervision, set-up, clean-up, etc.
Help is needed for set-up, clean-up, grill chefs, etc.
Outdoor Worship & Lunch
Faith Lutheran continues to celebrate Expand the Table with a special worship service at the Jamie Hurd Amphitheater on Sunday, August 24 at 10:30 am. Lunch, sno-cones, and games will happen after worship. Bring lawns chairs or a blanket to sit on. Students of all ages can bring their backpacks to receive a blessing during worship. Park near WDM City Hall, Library, or Learning Resource Center. Golf carts are available for people who need assistance. Faith Lutheran Church will be the rain location for this event. Invite a friend or neighbor!
All Saints Celebration
Join the celebration on November 1 & 2 as culminate the Expand the Table theme. The weekend includes All Saints festival worship on Saturday and Sunday, celebrating All the Saints, presentation of intent for financial gifts to Faith Lutheran in 2026, and brunch on Sunday at 9:15 am. Click the button below to help with the brunch. Look for more information in the fall regarding the stewardship emphasis.