Visit with Lutheran Community Church

Posted by Betty Grit:

From 2008 - Lutheran Community Church

Lutheran Community Church in Watsonville, CA worshiped in Danish until the late 1950's. They transitioned to English and now are worshiping in both English and Spanish. Their pastor, Susan Birkelo, preaches each Sunday in both languages and the order of service is in English and Spanish side by side.

From 2008 - Lutheran Community Church

On this Sunday evening, Pastor Susan and 5 members of the leadership team gathered to reflect on the work done through the 2006 Worship Renewal Grant. That project provided opportunities to learn more about their Hispanic neighbors. The population of Watsonville today is more than 80% Hispanic. The grant also provided training and resources to make worship more hospitable in their multicultural congregation. A large banner reminds worshipers that they are

From 2008 - Lutheran Community Church

called to be "instruments of healing and restoration in the world even as we are nourished by the waters of baptism." Other colorful banners in both English and Spanish invite worshipers to remember their baptism and live lives filled with the fruit of the Spirit.

We are grateful to learn that instructions and resources obtained through the grant created a strong foundation for ongoing renewal. This small congregation gives generously of their time and resources to the community and is seeking ways to grow in hospitality to their Hispanic neighbors. They report that they recently invited a group to lead Mariachi worship. The congregation is growing in their appreciation for the culture, customs and worship practices of the majority population in their community.