Welcome to CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH in New Hyde Park, a member congregation of the Metropolitan New York Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.
Lutherans are a diverse group of people, convinced that the Holy Spirit is leading us toward unity in the household of God. Members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America are connected to the faith of the church through the ages and around the world. We believe we are part of God’s unfolding plan. When we gather for worship, we connect with believers everywhere and of every time. When we study the Bible and pray, we are drawn more deeply into God’s own saving story. When we serve others and address social issues that affect the common good, we live out our Christian faith. We invite you into this community of Christian faith. Welcome, and explore.
Lutherans believe in the Triune God (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) and that God created and loves all of creation -- the earth and the seas and all of the world’s inhabitants. We believe that God's Son, Jesus Christ, transforms lives through his death on the cross and his new life, and we trust that God's Spirit is active in the world. The convictions shared by Christians from many different traditions are expressed in statements of belief called creeds. These ecumenical creeds that Lutherans affirm and use in worship confess the faith of the church through the ages and around the world. The Confession of Faith of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America is part of our founding constitution.
Most Americans, religious or not, have heard of and read part or even all of the Bible. It is arguably one of the most often referenced books — or set of books — in our culture. In its most basic definition, the Bible is a diverse collection of writings, divided into two main sections:
- the Old Testament tells the story of God’s relationship with and work on behalf of the Hebrew people
- the New Testament shares the story of Jesus, God’s Son, and his teachings, death and resurrection, as well as the experiences and faith of the first followers of Jesus
But its meaning — and its significance to the Christian faith — is far more complex and profound. As Lutherans, ELCA members believe that the Bible is the written Word of God. It creates and nurtures faith through the work of the Holy Spirit and points us to Jesus Christ, the living Word and center of our faith. And in reading the Bible, we are invited into a relationship with God that both challenges us and promises us new life.
To find out more about the Lutheran faith, drop in or send an email to Pastor Bob at bobcederstrom@aol.com.
Peace, Pastor Bob
