Greetings!

I am delighted you have found your way to New Journey Lutheran, and hope you are discovering meaningful connections, spiritual renewal, and a warm welcome in our community.  

New Journey Lutheran Church is a member congregation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), and a faith community that celebrates and welcomes all people regardless of church background, race, ethnicity, sexuality, gender identification, ability, income, and marital status. Though we are a member congregation of the ELCA, we are not all Lutheran here. Represented among us are folks from Catholic, Methodist, Baptist, Episcopal and Disciples of Christ backgrounds, as well as people who are unsure about faith and God.  

Because we prioritize belonging at New Journey, there is a lot of room for big questions, difference, and doubt. We do not all believe the same thing about God or faith or the Bible. Of course, the Lutheran perspective is presented in worship and study, and we welcome questions, pushback, and differing perspectives. Diversity is a gift that encourages us to grow and deepen our journey of faith. Ultimately, we trust the Spirit of God works through differences to form trustworthy relationships and build a more loving world. 

 If you spend time with us, you’ll figure out that we’re a small, intimate community—meaning this is a place where people know each other and want to be known. Out of close relationships, we’ve noticed how our faith grows into an intense desire to make a difference in our community and God’s world. We intentionally do not own property so that we might allocate greater resources and energy to serve and care for the most vulnerable among us. Whether through the collection of goods, sewing of quilts, packing of meals, or writing letters to our local and national leaders to advocate for just policies, our faith is expressed through action.  

One member and former council leader shared this about New Journey Lutheran Church: “I’ve been part of a lot of different churches, and most of them only talk about what they’d like to do to make the world a better place. This church actually rolls up their sleeves and does it. That's why I’m here.” 

Belonging, intimate community, service, and generosity. That is who God calls New Journey Lutheran Church to be in this world. Perhaps God is calling you join the journey of faith, too. We are certainly praying for your journey and trust God is leading all of us into possibilities unknown.  

With grace and peace, 

Pastor Beth Gallen