A CONGREGATION OF THE EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH IN AMERICA
BAPTISM
We welcome all people to the waters of baptism. We believe that in baptism God names us as a beloved child of God and brings us into the Christian family. It is just the beginning of a lifelong process of daily remembrance of God’s grace in our life. Baptism is appropriate for children as well as adults.
Baptisms always happen in the context of our Sunday worship service, surrounding by that Christian family which will make promises to pray for you and support you in your faith journey.
HOLY COMMUNION
As Lutheran Christians, we believe that the bread and wine of the Eucharist are truly the body and blood of Christ, God’s gifts for you. Since we are all on a lifelong journey of understanding the mystery of this sacrament, all are welcome to the Lord’s table. Typically, children receive Holy Communion for the first time when their parents and pastor determine they’re ready.
-
Does your child show signs of feeling excluded (i.e., asking for Communion)?
-
Has your child been baptized?
-
Can your child show a degree of respect for the Communion experience?
If you answered “yes” to all or most of the questions above, your child is likely ready for Holy Communion.
CONFIRMATION
Since most of our members were baptized as infants, with promises made by their parents to nurture their faith, we provide for opportunities for individuals, typically in their teenage years, to come to learn more about the faith of the church and make public profession of their faith through the rite of “Affirmation of Baptism.”
Currently at St. Philip, we follow a three-year curriculum of study that includes looking at the basics of Luther’s Small Catechism, exploring the Bible, and digging into the complex questions of our faith together with young people from Holy Trinity Lutheran Church. These sessions are also supplemented with sessions of service and fun!
Weddings
At St. Philip, we affirm all people and welcome them to participate in marriage regardless of marital history, race, sexual orientation, disability, gender identity, national origin, or socioeconomic status.
Our goal is to provide support as you prepare for your wedding day and the years to come. With every couple, Pastor Kyle strives to create a meaningful wedding service that strikes the balance between tradition and aspects of their unique partnership. Pastor Kyle is also a trained facilitator of Prepare/Enrich and uses this relationship inventory to help couples realize their strengths and build relational skills.
Funerals
We are truly a church family and we mourn with you when you mourn. The inevitable occasion of death in the life of a Christian and his/her community is quite complex. While we are saddened by the loss of our sibling in this pilgrimage on earth, we remember that loved one now shares fully in new life in Christ. And so while we mourn our loss, we also give thanks to God for the hope of eternal life that we share through Christ.
Pastor Kyle is available for pastoral care as the end of life comes near. We will work with you to
plan a meaningful funeral and memorial service at St. Philip.
LIFE PASSAGES
If you are interested in deepening your faith through one of these sacraments or rites, please contact Pastor Kyle at pastorkyle@stphilipglenview.org or 847-998-1946. We look forward to accompanying you on your journey with Christ.