Frequently Asked Questions
About Worship
What time is worship?
Worship begins at 10:00 AM Sunday mornings both in-person and online.
Can I receive Holy Communion?
You will hear each week, the table in our sanctuary is not a Lutheran table or a pastor's table or a church's table, it is Christ's table and Jesus invites everyone to partake in the meal he provides to us. So, no matter what your faith background is, no matter your age, no matter whether you have a strong faith or are filled with doubt, you are welcome at the table and encouraged to come!
Are children welcome in worship?
Yes! We embrace all the wiggles and giggles that the youngest in our midst might make! The noise of children is the sound of a church that is full of life and is welcome here!
What is liturgy?
Liturgy literally means "the work of the people" and refers to the structure and practices of worship that a church may follow. Everything we do in worship is liturgy because it requires something from you! Whether it is listening, singing, responding, giving, or receiving, the liturgy is to be done not just by the Pastor but by you. Therefore, our worship is participatory and interactive.
What is your worship style?
Our worship is traditional but not antiquated. While we sing hymns and speak traditional liturgy, you may also experience modern music and experiential spiritual practices throughout the year. While we tend to follow a more traditional structure, worship remains laid back, casual, and relaxed. We don't take ourselves too seriously!
About Holy Cross
Who are Lutherans?
Lutherans are Christians in the Protestant tradition and were among the first Protestants. The movement began in 1517 when Martin Luther, an Augustinian monk, published his Ninety-Five Theses in Wittenberg, Germany, protesting against practices of the Roman Catholic Church. At the heart of Lutheran belief is justification by faith alone: we are saved by God’s grace through faith in the Triune God, not by our works (merit).
What is your denominational affiliation?
The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) is a vibrant and diverse Christian denomination committed to spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ through love, compassion, and service. With over 8,000 congregations across the United States, totaling approximately 3.3 million members, the ELCA is a thriving community of faith rooted in the Lutheran tradition. As one of the largest Christian denominations in the country, the ELCA is organized into 65 synods, each serving a specific geographical region. These synods provide support, resources, and guidance to congregations and ministries within their boundaries, fostering a sense of connection and collaboration throughout the denomination.
Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, the ELCA is led by Presiding Bishop Yehiel Curry and an elected Church Council. Together, they provide leadership and direction for the church, guiding its mission and ministry efforts both domestically and globally.
At its core, the ELCA is a welcoming and inclusive church that embraces diversity, values community, and seeks to make a positive impact in the world. Through worship, fellowship, education, and service, the ELCA invites all people to experience the transformative love of God and join in the mission of proclaiming Christ's peace and justice to all creation.
Evangelical but not "evangelical"
The word "evangelical" comes from the Greek word euangelion, meaning "good news." At its heart, it is a word meant to convey hope, grace, and love–the transformative message of Jesus Christ. However, we understand that for some, particularly those who have experienced church trauma or have been hurt by the actions of the evangelical movment, the term may carry heavy, painful associations. This misuse of the word, often tied to exclusionary theologies, anti-LGBTQIA+ rhetoric, and Christian nationalism, has strayed far from its original meaning and intent.
At Holy Cross Lutheran Church, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, we reclaim the heart of the good news: a message of radical love, inclusion, and justice for all people, no exceptions. We strive to be a place of healing and acceptance, where all are truly welcome.
Is the church open during the week?
The church office is open Monday through Thursday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM and is closed on Federal holidays.
If you would like to schedule an appointment to meet with our pastor, please call 703-437-1883 or email admin@holycrossherndon.org. The pastor keeps office hours Monday through Thursday, and is available for pastoral emergencies on Saturday.