Beliefs

St. Paul Lutheran Church

1075 Glenwood Ave. Napoleon, OH 43545

Church # (419) 592-3535 Fax # (419) 592-0652

2007-2008 Theme: "Hearts Ablaze"

What We Believe . . .

The logo of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod is this triple-layered cross. The cross reminds Christians of the innocent suffering and death of Jesus Christ for the sins of all people. The three layers of the cross symbolize the unfathomable mystery of the Holy Trinity.

When Should I Call A Pastor?

Pastors are regularly available for consultation and conversation during office hours. Advance appointments are helpful. In the event of an emergency, feel free to call them at home.

The pastors ask that you get in touch with them in the following circumstances:

When you or a member of the family enters the hospital. Upon admission, be sure to register as a Lutheran from St. Paul Lutheran Church.
At the birth of a child. Since hospital stays are now so short be sure to call immediately.
When you are planning to get married.
To arrange a funeral.
When you need help or support in facing a crisis.
If you are planning to move.
When you would like them to pray for you.
When you know of someone who might be interested in joining the church of learning more about the Christian faith.
When you find yourself struggling with matters that pertain to your faithfulness as a baptized child of God.
When you need to hear and discover the Gospel's release from burdens of guilt, anger, fear, or despair.
For guidance to other people who can be of good help in a specific situation.
When you have questions about congregational activities and do not know whom else to ask.
When, for any other reason, you should wish to speak with them.

A rule of thumb: Do not assume that the pastors are too busy to speak with you. To the contrary, listening and speaking with you is why they are here!

Baptism

The time of baptism is arranged between the church office and the parents of the child. Baptisms may be held during any of the three services or after the third service on a Sunday; or it may be held during or after the service on Thursday evening. Sufficient time should be given to the pastor so he can give the parents and sponsors appropriate instruction in their duties and responsibilities. The Baptism is usually administered at the beginning of the service, shortly after the first hymn.

Sponsors: We would highly recommend that the sponsors are fellow Christians and communing fellow Lutherans. Others could be listed as witnesses if you desire. Upon the birth of a child a Baptismal booklet will be mailed to you. If, however, you have not received a booklet within two weeks of your child's birth, please contact the church office and one will be sent to you.

Click here for recent Baptisms at St. Paul

Marriage

A Christian Wedding is an occasion of great joy and happiness. But one can really lose sight of the important goal in the wedding service. We need to remember that, first of all, marriage is an ordinance of God and that we are asking God's blessing by being married in a Christian Church. Therefore, we want to keep a Christ centered approach to your marriage service. In keeping with this, a marriage policy handbook is available for all couples wishing to be married. You are invited to stop by the church office for a copy. Please contact the church at least six months prior to the wedding date to give time for pre-marriage counseling and service planning. Due to the penitential emphasis during the season of Lent, no wedding will be scheduled during this somber church season. All weddings are scheduled through the church office in agreement with the pastor's availability.