Welcome to St. John
True worship is not something you bring to God; it is what God gives to you. At St. John, we gather around Christ’s Word and Sacraments to receive what He has won for us — the forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation. We have put together this guide to help you know what to expect.
When and where
Sundays at 9:30 a.m. — Divine Service
Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. — Divine Service
Sunday Bible Class & Sunday School — after the Divine Service, around 10:45 a.m.
St. John Ev. Lutheran Church and School
W5406 County Highway SS, Random Lake, WI 53075
Phone: 920-994-2228
The main entrance is on the south side of the building, off the parking lot. Come a few minutes early so we can greet you and answer any questions.
What happens in the Divine Service
The Divine Service follows a structure Christians have used for almost two thousand years. The shape may be new to you, but it is not strange — every part is shaped by Scripture and confesses Christ delivering His gifts to you.
- Invocation — the service begins in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, the same Name placed on you in your Baptism.
- Confession and Absolution — we confess our sins together, and the pastor, in Christ’s stead and by His command, forgives them.
- The Service of the Word — we sing psalms, hear readings from the Old Testament, an Epistle, and a Gospel reading, and the pastor preaches Christ from the appointed text.
- The Service of the Sacrament — we receive the body and blood of Christ “in, with, and under” the bread and wine, given and shed for the forgiveness of our sins.
- Benediction — the Lord blesses us and sends us out in His peace.
We use the Lutheran Service Book (the hymnal in the pew). The pastor wears liturgical vestments; the congregation stands, sits, kneels, and bows at appointed places. Each gesture says something — that the Lord is risen, that we hear His Word, that we are sinners in need of His mercy. None of it is decoration. If you are unfamiliar with the form, the people around you will gladly help.
About Holy Communion
We believe and confess that in the Lord’s Supper, the true body and blood of Christ are received under the bread and wine for the forgiveness of sins (Matthew 26:26–28; 1 Corinthians 10:16–17; 11:23–29). This is a sacred and holy meal, given to those who have been instructed in this confession and who join with us in believing, teaching, and confessing the same faith.
Therefore, in keeping with the historic practice of the Christian Church, Holy Communion at St. John is offered to confirmed members of congregations of the Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod and our sister churches in altar-and-pulpit fellowship. This is not a judgment on any visitor’s faith or salvation; it is a confession of what is being received and of the unity of doctrine in which we receive it together.
If you would like to commune at our altar in the future, please speak with the pastor before the service. He would be glad to instruct you and to talk through any questions.
Children in worship
Children of every age are welcome in the Divine Service. Christ Himself said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them.” Wiggles, noises, and questions are not a disruption — they are part of the household of faith learning to receive Christ. A staffed nursery is available off the narthex if a child needs a break; large-print bulletins and children’s bulletins are available from the ushers.
Practical details
- Dress — no dress code. Some wear suits and dresses, others come in jeans. Come as you are.
- Parking — free in both lots; handicap spaces are marked nearest the west entrance.
- Accessibility — both entrances are wheelchair-accessible; large-print hymnals available; please ask an usher about hearing-assistance devices.
- Restrooms — off the narthex, just inside the main entrance; also in the basement and back of the sanctuary
- Bible class and Sunday School — Bible class for adults and Sunday School for children meet after the Divine Service in the fellowship hall.
Have a question? Want to talk to the pastor?
Rev. Christopher R. Gillespie would be glad to talk with you — before a service, after, or by appointment. Reach him at or 920-994-2228.
Let us know you’re coming
We’d love to greet you by name. No obligation — just fill in your name and email and we’ll send you a quick note before Sunday.