Welcome to Christ Lutheran Church in Hilo. We’ve put together some information here that anticipates and tries to answer some of the questions you may have prior to visiting our church for the first time. We offer traditional, but easy to follow worship services on Sunday mornings at 8:00 and 10:30. We also welcome you to worship with us online at your convenience. Services can be found at our MESSAGES tab on this site or simply click HERE.

While some people have been in different churches and experienced different styles of worship, there can be uncertainty coming someplace new. We put together this set of videos to help walk you through what to expect. We know that whether you're attending for the first time, or you're returning after an absence, you may have some concerns and questions. We want to help you feel comfortable and confident so you can relax and find your time with us meaningful.

The following videos can be watched in order or you may wish to pick and choose depending on what's of interest to you. Click on each title to open the video in a new tab.

Introduction and Parking (4:22)

Approaching the building and Restrooms (4:02)

Find the Nursery, Fellowship Hall, and Prayer Room (4:54)

What happens in Worship (13:55)

How Communion is served (2:12)

Finding the Church Office during the week (1:02)

During the Service

It's important to us that you feel welcome. We're not formal here, so dress comfortably. You may see dresses and dress shirts, but you'll also see shorts and T-shirts, and of course Hawaiian clothes! Everything for the service is projected on the monitors in the front of the sanctuary or you may access the bulletin on your mobile device, and we have a few printed copies too. Even if you've never been to a Lutheran worship service before, you should find the order easy to follow. There will be music, but even if you don't like to sing, we're pretty sure you'll be inspired by what you hear.  For more about the content of the service, please watch this VIDEO. There are ushers to help you if you have questions or need direction. The service generally lasts an hour, but hopefully you can stick around after service for a few minutes and meet some of the wonderful people who joined you in worship.

Friendly Atmosphere

No matter your family dynamics, you're welcome at Christ Lutheran and we're excited to welcome you! We welcome your whole family. During our worship service we have spaces available for infants and children where they can be cared for while the adults can still hear what's happening. After the service, there are usually snacks and coffee on the lanai with time to relax and visit, if you wish. There is an adult class between services in the fellowship hall all year and Sunday School for the kids during the school year. This VIDEO will show you where to find these places as well as the Prayer Room.

The Message

Pastor Mark uses the Bible readings for the day as he shares his message. He refers to his speaking  as "sharing a message", rather than "preaching", and people find him engaging, helpful, and easy to understand. Far from the stuffy preachers you may have heard, Pastor Mark is relaxed and yet respectful of the significance of the power there is in God's Word. You can get a feel for his style and watch our services HERE.

Word & Sacrament

Here at Christ Lutheran, we place a high priority on God's Word and celebrating the Sacraments of Holy Baptism and also Holy Communion which is celebrated at both services each Sunday. Other opportunities exist beyond the Sunday worship service where you have an opportunity to grow, find friendship, or otherwise be a part of a group of believers that live out their faith together gathered around God's Word.

Please contact us if you have further questions.

General