Visiting Ascension of Christ
We are glad you are considering worshipping with us. Here are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) and information for visitors:
When & Where
We gather for the Divine Service with Holy Communion every Sunday at 10:15 AM. A Bible Class is offered at 9:00 AM before the service.
Ascension of Christ Lutheran Church
Beverly Hills, MI (Oakland County)
What Should I Expect?
Our worship is the historic Divine Service — a liturgical service rooted in Scripture and the Lutheran Confessions, with spoken and chanted prayers, Scripture readings, a sermon, and the Lord's Supper. It follows Setting Three from the Lutheran Service Book (LSB).
The service lasts approximately 75–90 minutes. Bulletins are provided at the entrance to the nave (sanctuary) by our ushers that contain the order of service, so you can follow along even if you are unfamiliar with the liturgy. Hymnals are also in the pews.
For a detailed walkthrough of the service, see our Worship page.
What Should I Wear?
There is no dress code, though many in our congregation dress in Sunday best as an expression of reverence for the Lord's house & the real presence of Christ's Body and Blood in the Eucharist. Whatever you wear, you are welcome: we are happy you're visiting!
Can I Receive Holy Communion?
We practice Closed Communion. Because we confess that the consecrated bread and wine are truly the Body and Blood of Christ, and because receiving the Sacrament is an act of confessional unity, we ask that only those who are members of a congregation in fellowship with the LCMS (or a member of a church body whom the LCMS is in fellowship with: AALC, LCC, etc) come forward to commune.
If you are a visitor who would like to receive the Sacrament, please speak with the Pastor before the service. He will be glad to speak with you. This is not meant to exclude — it is meant to protect.
All visitors are warmly welcome to attend the service, hear God's Word proclaimed, and receive a blessing at the rail.
I'm Not Lutheran. Can I Still Attend?
Absolutely. Visitors of all backgrounds are welcome to worship with us. Many people visit us out of curiosity about Lutheranism, the historic liturgy, or simply seeking a church. We are glad to have you.
If you have questions about what we believe, the About Our Church page is a good starting point. You are also welcome to speak with the Pastor before or after the service.
What is a Lutheran?
Lutheranism traces its roots to the 16th-century Reformation, when Dr. Martin Luther recovered the biblical teaching of justification by grace alone, through faith alone, in Christ alone. We are not a new church — we are a reforming movement within the one holy catholic and apostolic Church.
We are part of The Lutheran Church — Missouri Synod (LCMS), a confessional Lutheran church body that holds to the inerrancy of Holy Scripture and the 1580 Book of Concord as a correct exposition of biblical doctrine.
For a simple introduction to our doctrine, we recommend the Small Catechism.
I'd Like to Speak With the Pastor
The Pastor is available before and after the service, and by appointment. Whether you have questions about the faith, are interested in membership, or are seeking pastoral care — he is glad to speak with you.
You can also reach the church office at 248-644-8890 or info@ascensionofchrist.org, or use our Contact form.
Is There a Nursery?
Children are welcome in the service — the liturgy has always been for the whole family. If you need to step out with a young child, you are welcome to do so. Please ask an usher if you need assistance.