Frequently Asked Questions
Why the name Spirit of Joy?
You don’t have to smile all the time to come to Spirit of Joy. You don’t even need to be happy or have everything figured out in your life to check us out. We know that life is tough and joy isn’t always an easy thing to come by, but we believe that God’s gift of joy is deeper than the circumstances of life. People at Spirit of JOY have experienced all the burdens life has to offer, but because of God’s loving presence and promises through Jesus, we are able to discover a spirit of joy and hope even in difficult times.
What will worship be like?
Worship at Spirit of Joy is casual, fun and maybe even a little unpredictable. Our worship team, complete with drums, bass and electric guitar play both contemporary and traditional music. The message is communicated through preaching, drama and video. We celebrate our Lutheran heritage by taking time to seek forgiveness, hear God’s Word and receive Communion, but we realize the rituals of the past aren’t always effective, so we try to be fresh but faithful in what we do. Our mission at SOJ is to proclaim Jesus, serve others and share the good news while welcoming everyone with a Spirit of Joy.
What should I wear to Spirit of Joy?
Since there are people from many different backgrounds worshiping at Spirit of Joy, what people wear varies. For the most part, something casual will work just fine. Come as you are - there's a place for you here.
How long is worship?
Worship at Spirit of Joy usually lasts 60 to 75 minutes. Please join us at 10:00am for service. We can't wait to meet you!
Will I be singled out in any way as a guest?
We have volunteers that welcome everyone that walks through our doors, including guests. But don’t worry, we will not put you on the spot, expect you to give money or do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. If you do need assistance, feel free to visit our Welcome Center, located in the main lobby.
Where do my kids go during worship?
Children in grades K - 5 will be dismissed for Sunday School before the Gospel reading (about 15 - 20 minutes into worship) and can be picked up in room 7 following worship. Your children are welcome to join even if this is your first visit.
What is a Lutheran Church?
Spirit of Joy is part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), a national network of 9,000 churches. While we don’t share the same worship style and traditions as some other Lutheran churches, we do share the same core beliefs. Most importantly we believe we are saved by God’s grace, as a free gift, through faith in Jesus Christ -- not by anything we do.