Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church
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Lutherans believe that they are a part of a community of faith that began with the gift of the Holy Spirit, God's presence with his people, on the day of Pentecost.  The church is the fellowship of those who have been restored to God by Christ.
How to become a Christian?
Jesus said, "Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die." (John 11:25-26)
 
Who is Jesus Christ?

Jesus is God's son, sent by God to become human like us.  In his life and being he broke through the bondage of sinfulness and thus restored the relationship with God that God intended to exist between God and his children.  Though he is eternal, he was born on earth of a virgin, by the power of the Holy Spirit.  Jesus was at once truly God and truly human.

 

We believe him to be the Messiah chosen by God to show his love for the world.  He is God, yet with all the limitations of being human.  For the sake of a sinful world, Jesus was condemned to death on a cross.

 

Death could not contain him.  On the third day after his execution, the day Christians observe Easter, Jesus appeared among his followers as the risen, living Lord.  The gap that separates us from our Creator has been bridged.  Christ lives today wherever people faithfully believe in him, wherever the Word is preached and the Sacraments administered.
How to become a Lutheran?
Only Baptism and instruction in the Christian faith is required.  If you are already baptized in the name of the Father, Son, & Holy Spirit, it will be necessary only to attend a membership class and thus signify your desire to become part of the Lutheran community.  See the Pastor for more details.  Or e-mail us at  sovgj@live.com
 
 
What is the Church?
The Christian church is made up of those who have been baptized and thus have received Christ as the Son of God and Savior of the world.
 
The church is essential to Christian life and growth.  Its members are all sinners in need of God's grace.  It has no claim on human perfection.  It can justify its existence only when it proclaims the living Word of Christ; administers the Sacraments; and gives itself to the world in deeds of service and love.  Most Lutherans recognize a wider fellowship of churches and are eager to work alongside them.

The information on this page and more on Jesus Christ and the Church can be found on the ELCA web site at http://www.elca.org/co/brief.html