First Lutheran Church

About this church

First Lutheran Church is a Brainerd ELCA congregation using four worship forms across its Sunday calendar. Some services follow the traditional Evangelical Lutheran Worship hymnal, while others use the creation-and-redemption setting “God Give Us Life,” Marty Haugen’s Communion liturgy “Now the Feast and Celebration,” or a Praise and Worship Band. This rotation lets one congregation experience historic liturgy, call-and-response music, familiar hymns, and contemporary Christian songs without maintaining separate weekly services.

Sunday worship begins at 9:15 a.m. and normally concludes around 10:15. Holy Communion is offered on the first and third Sundays, while the Praise and Worship style generally appears on the fourth Sunday, so visitors interested in a particular form should check the current calendar. Men’s Breakfast Bible Study meets Monday at 8:30 a.m. at The Sidetrack rather than at the church building. Youth ministry, Sunday School, summer camp, volunteer opportunities, and marriage preparation follow their own schedules. The pre-marriage requirement includes an all-day Saturday retreat hosted in rotation by one of five area ELCA churches, meaning couples should confirm both the date and location rather than reporting to First Lutheran automatically.

Researched from the church’s official website and reviewed August 25, 2026. Sources: Official homepage and Sunday time · Four worship styles and Communion pattern · Men’s Breakfast Bible Study · Youth ministry and Sunday School navigation

Service times

Confirm current times directly with the church before visiting.

Location