Baptisms at St. Francis

Baptism is one of the two Sacraments of the Lutheran Church. In baptism, God claims us as beloved children, welcomes us into the body of Christ, and promises grace, forgiveness, and new life. Baptism is God’s gift—freely given and grounded in love.

Who may be baptized?

At St. Francis, infants, children, and adults are welcome to be baptized. Baptism may take place at any age and at any stage of faith.

When are baptisms celebrated?

Baptisms are usually celebrated during Sunday morning worship, in the presence of the congregation. This reflects our belief that baptism is a communal act—the church promises to support and pray for the newly baptized.

What if I am new to St. Francis?

If you are new and interested in baptism (for yourself or your child), we invite you to attend worship, get to know the community, and speak with the pastor. For the baptism of a child, at least one parent or guardian is expected to be an active participant in the life of the congregation. Membership is encouraged and normally expected, and each situation is approached pastorally.

Weddings at St. Francis

Weddings at St. Francis Lutheran Church are:

• Open to all
• Warm, welcoming, and inclusive
• Personally planned with the pastor
• Celebrated in a historic, intimate sanctuary
• Shaped by meaningful music and prayer
• We joyfully welcome couples seeking a Christian wedding marked by welcome, depth, care, and community.

A Sacred Beginning

At St. Francis Lutheran Church, we rejoice in the love you have found in one another and are honored that you are considering celebrating your wedding here. A Christian wedding is an act of worship—rooted in prayer, Scripture, music, and God’s promise to walk with you in your shared life.

As a Reconciling in Christ congregation, we joyfully welcome couples of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

The Wedding Service

Weddings at St. Francis follow the Christian tradition and are grounded in the Service of Marriage, shaped by Lutheran Worship. This framework provides both structure and flexibility, allowing your service to be reverent, meaningful, and personal.

Together with the pastor, couples plan a service that reflects:

• God’s blessing on your life together
• The witness you offer to family and friends
• The joy, intimacy, and seriousness of Christian marriage
• A typical service includes Scripture readings, vows, the giving of rings, prayer, music, and a blessing. Holy Communion may be included by mutual agreement.

Meeting with the Pastor & Marriage Preparation

Marriage preparation is an important part of planning your wedding. Couples meet with the pastor several times before the ceremony. These conversations allow space to:

• Get to know one another
• Reflect on marriage and partnership
• Prepare thoughtfully for both the wedding and the life you are building together
• The actual date and time of the wedding are usually confirmed after an initial meeting, depending on pastoral and facility availability.

Scripture Readings & Vows

Your wedding will include readings from Scripture. Couples may choose from suggested biblical readings traditionally used in weddings or select others in consultation with the pastor.

Vows may follow traditional forms or be adapted, with the pastor’s guidance, to reflect your promises to one another while honoring the Christian character of the service.

Music & Musicians

Music is an integral part of worship at St. Francis. Typically, music accompanies the gathering, the service itself, and the sending.

Music selections should reflect the sacred nature of the occasion.

Both instrumental and vocal music are welcome.

The pastor and/or music director are happy to assist with selections and planning.

Additional musicians may be included with advance consultation.

Adult baptism

Adults seeking baptism are invited into conversation and learning about the Christian faith and the life of the church. Please contact the pastor to begin this conversation.

How do I begin?

To learn more or to begin the baptism process, comte to Sunday morning worship, speak with the pastor or contact the church office at
admin@sflcsf.org

Rehearsal

A rehearsal is usually held prior to the wedding and is led by the pastor. The rehearsal allows everyone involved to feel comfortable with the flow of the service and typically lasts under an hour.

Practical Details - Worship Booklets

The church office may assist couples with preparing worship booklets. Information for the booklet (readings, music, participants) is submitted in advance of the wedding.

Flowers & Decorations

Couples arrange for their own flowers and decorations, keeping in mind the worship setting. Plans should be coordinated with the pastor. The church provides altar and lectern candles; a unity candle may be included if desired.

Photography & Video

Photography and videography are welcome, with care taken to preserve the reverent, worshipful nature of the service. Flash photography is not permitted during the service.

Seating

Our sanctuary seats approximately 130 people. Ushers provided by the couple assist with seating.

Getting Started

If you are interested in celebrating your wedding at St. Francis Lutheran Church, please contact the church office to begin the conversation. We look forward to walking with you as you prepare for this joyful and meaningful moment.

Celebration of Life

A celebration of life is a worship service focused on the Gospel, honoring the deceased's faith and God's promise of resurrection. Held in a church or funeral home, it typically includes scripture readings (often Psalm 23 or 121), hymns, a sermon, and prayers. The service emphasizes Christ's victory over death and may include Holy Communion. Details for the service are  arranged in conversation with the pastor, along with any specific requests for space in which to hold a reception afterward.