First Time at Immanuel?
Visiting a church for the first time can be stressful, but knowing what to expect helps quite a bit. Sunday mornings at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Joplin are a time of worship, spiritual growth, and fellowship for the whole family—all centered around Jesus and His good gifts.
What Are the Services Like?
Immanuel Lutheran Church in Joplin is a traditional Lutheran congregation. Our services and hymns generally come from the Lutheran Service Book (LSB). We use a variety of liturgies, lots of Scripture, joyful organ music, and bold Law & Gospel preaching. You can also expect a surprise from time-to-time, including featured music from one of our choirs or other talented musicians.
You will not have to worry about losing your place. The whole service is projected on the walls, and a printed bulletin walks you through it step by step — when to stand, when to sit, and what to say. If you would rather simply sit and listen the first time, that is fine too.
What Should I Wear?
You’ll notice that there’s no right way to dress for church at Immanuel. It is common to see folks with high heels or wingtips sitting next to others wearing sneakers or sandals. Dress the way you would for something that matters — casual is fine, dressier is fine. What God is looking for is a heart prepared to receive His Word. Come ready to worship with all of God’s people.
Are My Children Welcome?
We are blessed to welcome children in our services, but we also have a staffed nursery with a well-stocked changing table for your convenience. Kid’s pages and busy bags are available before church in the lobby to help little ones focus their energy. The Kids Talk in each service speaks directly to their young, growing faith too.
When Are Sunday Services?
Sundays at 8:00 and 10:30 AM, with Bible Classes and Sunday School at 9:15 AM.
SUMMER (June–August): one service at 9:00 AM, with Bible Classes and Sunday School at 10:15 AM.
Immanuel worships on Sunday mornings at 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM, with Bible Classes and Sunday School at 9:15 between the two services. During the summer months of June through August, all worshipers gather together for one service at 9:00 AM, with Bible Class and Sunday School at 10:15. (Both services are also streamed live on Facebook and YouTube.) Holy Communion is celebrated on the first and third Sunday of the month. Sunday Morning Kids Ministry for children (ages 2 and up) and Bible Classes for Youth and Adults are offered each week.
Where Do I Park?
Immanuel has three parking lots, and any of the three will do. One sits off 26th Street on the north side of the sanctuary, one is the main lot off Connecticut Avenue, and a smaller one is near the Youth Center off 27th Street. Every lot has handicapped spaces, and each one leads to a different door of the church building. Whichever door you come through, wayfinding signs just inside will point you toward the worship space — and our greeters and elders are glad to answer any question along the way. You can see the whole campus on our campus map.
If you’re a first-time visitor, please stop by the Welcome Center, located just inside the church building. Introduce yourself to our pastor as well. We’ll be happy to help you find your way as you discover Immanuel.