Plan Your Visit
You are welcome any Sunday. No call ahead and no sign-up. Here is what you need to know.
A Personal Welcome
I'm Pastor Karl Grant, and I would be glad to have you with us on a Sunday.
Every week at St. Peter's, Jesus comes to us through His Word and Sacraments. Sins are forgiven! Faith is strengthened!
There is nothing more important we could offer you, and there is room for you in the pews.
I'll be at the door after the service. I'd like to meet you!
— Pastor Karl Grant
When We Worship
What to Expect
The service lasts 70–90 minutes. We follow the historic Divine Service: the Service of the Word (readings, sermon, prayers, creed) followed by the Service of the Sacrament.
If you have been to a traditional Lutheran service before, you will recognize the shape. If you have not, everything is printed in the bulletin and the people around you are used to visitors.
We use Lutheran Service Book, the LCMS hymnal. The sermon is usually based on one of the Bible texts appointed for that Sunday, focusing both on what the Bible says and what it means for you this week.
Your Kids Are Welcome in the Service
Children stay in worship with their families rather than going to a separate room. We have a children’s message every Sunday. You will see children of every age in the pews, learning the faith by worshiping right alongside of us.
If your child makes noise, don’t feel like you have to quiet them. If you do want to step out, the church basement has room for kids to get the wiggles out. A 65-inch screen down there shows the service live, so you can keep following along.
Common Questions
If your question isn't here, call the church office at (507) 834-6676 or email pastor@splcgibbon.org. Or just show up!
I've never been to church before. Do I need a reservation, or do I just show up?
Just show up. There is no reservation and no need to call ahead. We have room for you. If you would like to talk first, call the church office at (507) 834-6676, but you don't have to.
Where do I sit?
Anywhere you like. The long benches are called pews, and you can sit in any of them.
Do I have to participate?
Only as much as you are comfortable with. You don't have to sing or say any of the responses. Everything is printed in the bulletin if you want to follow along. It is polite to stand when the congregation stands, if you are able, but staying seated is fine.
Will I be singled out as a visitor?
No. You will not be asked to stand up or introduce yourself.
Can I take communion?
As a congregation of the LCMS, we practice closed communion. This means that the Lord's Supper is given to those who have been instructed in our church’s doctrine and confess it with us. If that is not you yet, you are welcome to come forward for a blessing or to stay in your seat. Either is fine. Our pastor is glad to talk with you about the Lord’s Supper.
What should I wear?
Whatever you are comfortable in. You will see sport coats and jeans both on a Sunday morning.
Does it cost anything?
No. Worship is free. Ushers pass offering plates during the service. Nobody expects visitors to give, so feel free to pass the plate along.
How do I get there from Highway 19?
In Gibbon, head north on Sibley County 2. After a couple of bends you will see our steeple on the west side of the road. County 10 comes in from the east, but don’t turn yet! A mile further north it turns off to the west, and that is your left turn. The church is not quite a mile down.
Where do I park, and which door do I use?
The parking lot runs right off the shoulder of 240th Street (County 10). Most people come in the east-facing door on the south side of the church, under the little roof canopy.
Are there restrooms?
Yes. Both restrooms are downstairs in the basement, near the kitchen, and both have changing tables.
What happens after the service?
Stay for coffee if you can. It is the easiest way to meet people. Our pastor is at the door after the service and would like to say hello.
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