Community Lutheran Church, Rancho Santa Margarita, CACommunity Lutheran Church, 30322 Via Con Dios, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688, 949-858-0307Map and Directions to CLC

Frequently Asked Questions

What time are worship services?

We have two worship services on Sunday morning. They are at 8:15 and 10:45 AM. Both have the same format and both follow what is commonly described as traditional. What that means is there is a formal liturgy, a pattern that we follow. And all the directions, the responses, the entire worship is printed out in a worship folder, also called a bulletin. For more detail, visit our Worship section.

Does it matter how I dress?

Worship is not influenced by the clothes we wear but by the attitude we hold. Worship is an act, a response given by us to honor, to recognize, or to offer our praise and respect to God. So our clothes are never the issue. Please come in whatever manner you choose. What is important is that we do come and offer up our praise and thanksgiving to God.

Is babysitting provided?

Babysitting is provided throughout the morning, for both worship services as well as for the Sunday school hour. It is free and open to all who made be in need of it. Please ask the ushers where the nursery is located.

Are children welcome?

Children are always welcome at all worship services. Please do not hesitate to bring your children to Worship.

Who may receive Holy Communion?

The sacrament of Holy Communion is offered each week at both worship services. In the Lutheran faith, Holy Communion is open to all who have been baptized and who believe Jesus Christ is present in the bread and wine offering the forgiveness of sin. It is not necessary to be a member of the church or a certain age to receive Holy Communion. We love having children present and we provide a children’s message each Sunday meant just for them.

Will I be expected to give money?

As our guest you are not expected to give any money. The work of Community Lutheran Church is provided by the gifts and offerings of its members. As a visitor it is our intent that your personal needs and desires are met. Please allow us to offer the time of worship as our gift to you.

What do Lutherans believe about Holy Communion?

Holy Communion works, that is offers forgiveness of sin, not due to the bread or wine, not because of the pastor or the faith of the members, but because of the Word of God. The Word of God created all that exists. And it is the Word of God that is able to achieve that for which it was sent, and it is the Word of God that became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and mercy. Because God’s Word is spoken and present in the blessing and distribution of Holy Communion, it is by that Word and through that Word that Holy Communion does exactly what it promises, that is, it offers the forgiveness of sin. And because it offers forgiveness of sin we offer Holy Communion every week, not wanting to withhold the forgiveness of sin.

What do Lutherans believe about the Holy Baptism?

Just like Holy Communion, baptism works because God’s Word is present in the water. It is not the water that offers forgiveness and entry into God’s kingdom, but the Word and promise of God proclaimed in the pouring of water on a person’s head. We respond to Jesus’ command to go out and baptize all people in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

Are Bible studies offered?

There are many opportunities for small group and class room Bible study here at Community Lutheran Church. On Thursday morning from 10 -11AM in the conference room there is a Bible study for women focusing on issues and concerns applicable to women. This study is led by Julie Mortenson, Lay Assistant and Administrative Assistant to Pastor Greg. All adult women are welcome. On Friday mornings from 10:30 – 11:30 AM, a Bible study led by Pastor Greg meets weekly ranging from books of the Bible to concerns we all have in life. All adults are welcome. Sunday morning Pastor Greg leads another adult Bible study session each Sunday at 9:30 AM. This one meets in the church sanctuary. All adults are welcome.

What kinds of education does CLC offer?

Each Sunday Community Lutheran Church provides religious education from preschool age through adult. The Sunday school hours begins each week at 9:30 AM. The curriculum is lectionary based. That means what is studied in the class room is also read and preached on in the worship service. They are complimentary in intent and purpose, providing an over view of Biblical and salvation history as recorded through the pages of the Bible. We welcome and encourage all to attend and nurture their faith.

In addition to this we provide doctrinal education for those who are in the 7th and 8th grades. This program is our Confirmation program. We offer this on Wednesday evenings from 6:30 – 8:00 PM, following the public school calendar.