Hospitality and Outreach

Hospitality:      The quality of disposition of receiving and treating guests and strangers in a warm, friendly, generous way.

Outreach:        The act of extending services.

“Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”

Romans 12:13

Hospitality and Outreach are defined and we are invited and instructed by the highest authority to practice it.

St. John’s Lutheran Church, to put it simply, is blessed. We are in a perfect physical setting to reach out to all in the metro Des Moines area. We have a rich tradition of “serving” and “ministering” to all in our society. We have a large and varied range of groups to assist in that endeavor – everything from working with children to our elderly; opportunities to assist with those in need, a variety of music ministries, help with clerical projects and a myriad of other prospects.

An often-used word within church settings is “Stewardship.” I used to think of stewardship strictly in the financial sense. I was wrong. “Stewardship” pertains to ALL the ways we can serve our God and our neighbor.

Another time honored description of church involvement is “Time, Talent, and Treasure.” We think a better way of looking at it is a way of offering our differing gifts, and we have all been given unique abilities by our Lord.

Consider yourself a grateful caretaker of the many gifts with which you’ve been blessed. We offer an opportunity to share those gifts.

Many of you are already involved in ministries here at St. John’s. We gratefully acknowledge your contributions. Now I invite you all to engage more fully. Take a look at the opportunities provided. Or, maybe you have an idea for something not yet mentioned, give us a call.

You will find that personal interaction and service to others will touch your heart, your soul and your mind. You will feel a sense of “home” and “community” that has the power to change your outlook on life. Join us and follow God into an adventure of ministry.

We invite your participation.

We will equip you with information and knowledge to serve in your selected area.

We will connect you with others sharing your same passion.

We will sustain your partnership and promise an enjoyable and heartening experience.

Please prayerfully consider how you may serve God and your neighbor. Even if you aren’t an “official” member of St. John’s, you are welcome to participate at any level. We welcome your involvement.

In the near future, we will have additional information about many of our service opportunities. Please check back to this area of the website. In the meantime, if you have questions on the ministries and opportunity for service, please contact me at 515-243-7691 ext. 115 or email katietippins@stjohnsdsm.org. For whatever talent, interest, or passion you have, we have a match for you.