Saint Paul's Lutheran Church invites you to become a part of a growing community dedicated to prayerful and joyous worship, formation through learning and fellowship, and hospitality to our neighbors through service and outreach. Wherever you are in your journey of faith, regardless of your background, knowledge, or experience, you are welcome to join our community at Saint Paul's.
Getting to Know Saint Paul'sLocated at the heart of the historic rural community of Burkittsville, Maryland, Saint Paul's Lutheran Church has served the southwestern region of Frederick County since 1815. Our congregation honors this long history through the preservation of our beautiful church, maintaining traditional forms of worship in accordance with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, and striving to be a place of refuge and support for those most in need among our neighbors. Throughout our history, Saint Paul's has been a sanctuary for the spiritually and physically wounded, the sojourner and the saints, and a sacred place to inspire a closer walk with God as we humbly strive for justice, love, and mercy. Our congregation includes multi-generational families as well as newcomers to this beautiful region.
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Saint Paul's Campus
Our church includes three main facilities located at the physical address of 5 East Main Street, Burkittsville, Maryland.
Where do I park?
There is ample parking on either side of the church. The main entrance to the sanctuary is on the side of the building from the west parking lot. This entrance is handicap accessible and there are two reserved parking spaces located next to the ramp.
What do I wear to church?
Anything that makes you comfortable! We are a "come as you are" community, some of our worshipers like to dress up, others wear a t-shirt and jeans.
How should I enter the church?
Most of our worshipers enter through the side door leading out to the west parking lot. When you come through the door, turn left and enter the sanctuary. On a stand just inside the door will be a basket with the bulletin (a program containing the order of service, announcements, and other information). Please sit wherever you like.
How can children be involved?
In each of our worship services, there is a special time for children to come up to the chancel to have a time with Pastor Charlie where he will share a brief message directed for them in relation to the broader theme for that service. There are some coloring books and small toys located in the back of the sanctuary which children are welcome to play with during service.
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Can I receive Holy Communion?
We celebrate Holy Communion every Sunday during our 11:15 am worship service. The Communion table belongs to God and thus is open to all baptized Christians, no matter the tradition/denomination into which you were baptized. When we reach the portion of the service where Holy Communion is distributed, an usher will dismiss each pew moving from the front of the sanctuary to the back. On most Sundays, we distribute Holy Communion using bread wafers and small cups of red wine. We have white grape juice available as an alternative to red wine, just ask the usher distributing the cups when you reach them in the line. If you are not baptized or do not wish to receive Holy Communion, you are still welcome to come forward in the line and upon reaching the pastor, indicate that you would like to receive a blessing by placing your arms in the shape of an "X" over your chest.
What opportunities are there for fellowship?
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On the first Sunday of each month, our congregation gathers in the chapel (located under the sanctuary, signs are posted to direct the way) for a Coffee Hour, beginning at 10:30 am. We have coffee, tea, water, and hot chocolate and donuts, muffins, or other baked treats for everyone to enjoy. At other times throughout the year, we hold breakfasts, game nights, and other social gatherings. Many of these events are held in collaboration with our sister congregation, Bethany Lutheran Church of Brunswick.
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Are there faith formation programs at St. Paul's?
Yes! Saint Paul's currently holds seasonal Bible Studies, see our latest newsletter for information on upcoming sessions. In collaboration with our sister congregation, our church also plans additional opportunities for learning, discussion, and formation such as film screenings/discussions and book groups.