We’re so glad you’re interested in becoming a member of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church. Whether you’re new to the Christian faith, returning after some time away, or coming from another church background, we want to welcome you to where you truly belong: In God’s Church, listening to His Word, and receiving His forgiveness and salvation in Christ Jesus alone. 

 

Joining a church isn’t just about having your name on a certain list—It’s much deeper than that. When you become a member of a congregation, you’re committing to what we believe, teach, and confess, and also to live as a Christian in what you say and do. On top of that, you’re not only saying that you believe it right now, but that you will continue to believe it until the day you die. That’s true unity with God and neighbor for life. And once we share this unity in confession, we can also share unity at the Lord’s Supper. That’s why we ask everyone who wants to receive the Lord’s Supper first join the Lutheran Church through this Profession of Faith. 

 

However, we also know that the only way you can actually commit to something like this is if you know what we believe, teach, and confess before you join. For that reason, we’ve put a lot of effort into being as clear, transparent, open, and honest with you about everything we believe and teach. We’ll never force, trick, or obligate anyone to join the church. We want no surprises. So, all questions are welcome. No topic is off-limits. And to help guide you in this, we have a process for everyone who wants to join. Here’s what we require: 

 

1. Introductory Meeting with Pastor

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We’ll meet together (either in person at Zion, offsite, or even virtually via Zoom) so I can get to know you, talk through any initial questions, and outline the path ahead.

 

2. Attend The Adult Instruction Class (AIC)

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This class is where we explore the heart of Lutheran teaching. You’ll learn the basics of the Christian faith, the core of Lutheran doctrine, and what it means to live as a baptized child of God within His Church. The class is required for all who wish to join. You can take the class in person during its scheduled times (typically offered once a year), or complete a self-guided version listening to the class online, completing handouts, and having regular check-ins with Pastor Rojas. 

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You’ll also read through this short booklet which outlines the fundamentals of what we believe, teach, and confess here at Zion. It’s written in a very simple, straightforward way: Through direct questions and simple answers. Each answer has a Scripture reference. Everyone who joins Zion is required to agree with all that is taught here. While this booklet is not comprehensive, it’s a great summary of fundamental Christian teachings.

 

3. Join the Church

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Once you’ve completed the Adult Instruction Class and feel ready, you’ll fill out a brief Church Membership Application. This gives us a written record of your confession of faith, that you believe what Scripture teaches and desire to live as a Christian. This step is important before we can formally receive you into membership and publicly welcome you into the congregation. Don’t worry—if you’ve read the Christian Questions & Answers and participated in the class, there will be nothing new in the application. It simply reflects what you’ve already been taught and affirmed.

 

At that same meeting, Pastor Rojas will walk you through the Rite of Confirmation. This short liturgical rite outlines the promises you’ll make before the congregation as you are received into communicant membership. Again, nothing in this rite will be unfamiliar or contrary to what you’ve already learned.

 

Finally, we’ll choose a Sunday morning for your public Confirmation. During the service, you’ll confess the faith before the congregation and be officially welcomed as a member. While the application is a private confession of faith, the Confirmation is your public confession—a joyful witness to the whole congregation that you believe, teach, and confess what we do, and that you wish to be part of this church family.

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The Rite of Confirmation takes place during the church service. The pastor will call on you—and all others who are joining as well—to stand before the altar and profess your faith. Don’t worry—You’ll have a copy of the Rite of Confirmation with you, so you don’t have to memorize anything or make a speech. And on the Sunday of your Confirmation, you’ll be able to receive the Lord’s Supper for the first time at Zion.

 

After those steps, you’ll be a member of Zion. Right after the service, you’ll receive a framed Confirmation certificate to mark this meaningful day in your life—something to keep and help you remember it. 

 

If you ever have questions along the way, just ask. We’re here for you. I truly look forward to walking you through this process to become a member of this congregation! 

 

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Your servant in Christ, 
Pastor Rojas+

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