Frequently Asked Questions


Do I need to be a Lutheran to commune?

  • All who are baptized, repentant, and believe in Jesus Christ as their Savior, and that Christ is truly present in the Sacrament are welcome to commune at Immanuel Lutheran Church of Waukee.

Do I need to meet with the pastor before communing?

  • No, but Pastor’s door is always open if you have any questions or concerns prior to communing.

At what age are children allowed to commune?

  • The church offers a 5-6 week class to 5th graders prior to their first communion. This is ultimately a decision by the parents in consult with the pastor.

Are young children welcome at worship?

  • Yes! We love having children in church, but when needed, we have a cry room at the back of the sanctuary for young children and a parent.  Busy Bags are available for older children and are located in the Gathering Area at Immanuel Lutheran Chruch of Waukee.

What programs are available for my children? High School?

  • Yes, Immanuel Lutheran Church of Waukee has a number of programs and activities available for children of all ages.  You can see a full list on our Education and Youth Activities page.  

Are there adult education / studies available?

  • Yes, there is a wide variety of adult studies here at Immanuel Lutheran Church of Waukee.  Adult classes are offered every Sunday morning.  Immanuel's LIFE (Ladies in Faith Exploration) group offers a study during the year. Immanuel's men meet once a month for breakfast and devotions.  Pastor offers weekly Bible studies throughout the year.

Is there audio assistance for the hearing impaired?

  • Yes, please see an usher for assistance

Is your church handicapped accessible?

  • Yes.  There are no stairs at any entrance to the building. There is an automatic handicap door at the circular drive and an elevator for lower-level access.

Must I become a member to worship and be involved in the life of the church? 

  • We encourage you to consider making Immanuel Lutheran Church of Waukee your church home by becoming a member, but it is not required to worship and participate.

If I believe in God and in Jesus Christ, why would I need or want to join a church?

  • Imagine your wedding day.  The minister tells you to kiss the bride.  Then as you walk down the aisle you tell your bride I’ll see you at Christmas.  That is not a marriage.  A marriage is a day in and day out commitment. Throughout the Bible both God and Jesus use the image of God and the people of God in a marriage relationship.  That relationship is a 24/7 relationship, not just once a year or when it’s convenient for you.  This is not about spirituality it is about a relationship. A living, breathing relationship between you and God as mediated by Jesus Christ.
  • This relationship with God is expanded in the importance and strength found in a community of believers. Together we worship and serve and support one another and reach out beyond ourselves.

What should I be looking for in a church?

  • Worship centered on the WORD OF GOD and the Sacraments (Baptism and Holy Communion). Sermons based on the Bible. Worship that contains a confession of sin and the hope of the resurrection. A community of believers who proclaim, live and share God’s Word!

How do I become a member at Immanuel?

  • We invite you to join us for a two-week Inquiry Course that promises to be informative and comfortable as Pastor leads us into dialogue on the Lutheran doctrine, a life of faith, the mission of Immanuel Lutheran Church of Waukee and how you can become involved. Whether you have been a lifelong Lutheran or have found yourself here by another route, the class discussion will be relevant and helpful and fosters personal connections with Pastor and with one another.
  • You may transfer a previous church membership to our church offices at any time.  You may join by affirmation of faith if you do not have a previous church membership.

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