New here?
Start here. No background needed.
Maybe you're new to faith. Maybe you're coming back after a long time away. Maybe you were never baptized. You're welcome here, and you can start right now.
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Eight steps
Go in order if you like. Each one builds on the one before.Questions people ask
Do I have to be baptized to use this?
No. Every step is open to everyone. You can learn about Baptism in step 6 and decide what you think.
I wasn't baptized as a baby. Is it too late?
No. Baptism is a gift for any age. Lutherans baptize babies, kids, teens, and adults. If you'd like to be baptized, talk with a leader at a church near you. There's no test to pass first.
Can I take communion if I visit a church?
Churches handle this in their own ways. The ELCA welcomes baptized people to the table. If you aren't baptized, many churches invite you to come forward for a blessing instead, often by crossing your arms over your chest. You can also stay in your seat. Ask someone at the church if you're not sure. What to Expect walks through it.
What if I have doubts or big questions?
You're in good company. People in the Bible argued with God, asked hard questions, and doubted. Questions are welcome at every step. You don't have to believe everything to start.
Do I need a Bible?
It helps, but you don't need one to begin. Each step gives a short summary of the Bible passage and a link to read the whole thing.
Some of the words are confusing.
That's normal. A lot of church language is old, or uses pictures. Church Words explains them plainly, and inside each step you can tap an underlined word to see what it means.
Do I have to join a church or sign up?
No. There's no account and no signup. Your progress stays on your own device. If you'd like to visit a church someday, What to Expect shows what happens, step by step.