Our Beliefs

What do you believe?

Central Lutheran is a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The ELCA is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with nearly 3.3 million members in more than 8,900 worshiping communities. The ELCA is in Full Communion with the Episcopal Church, the United Methodist Church, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), the United Church of Christ, the Moravian Church, and the Reformed Church in America. Full communion is when two denominations develop a relationship based on a common confessing of the Christian faith and a mutual recognition of Baptism and sharing of the Lord’s Supper. Learn more about what makes ELCA Lutherans unique here: https://www.elca.org/About/What-We-Believe/ELCA-Faith-Tradition

We accept the Apostles’, Nicene, and Athanasian Creeds as true declarations of faith.

What are your worship services like?

Our worship focuses on historic Christianity and follows a traditional liturgical style thoughtfully woven into a modern context. Liturgy is a predetermined order of service that keeps worship consistent from week to week. We have a three-year rotating calendar of which Bible passages we focus on. Our services draw from the rich traditions of liturgical worship, placing a strong emphasis on congregational singing accompanied by piano or organ. Preaching is centered on the Bible. We use a printed bulletin and recite the Lord’s Prayer and creeds like the Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds. We celebrate Holy Communion every Sunday. We invite you to join us in this sacred practice as we come together in reverence and joy.

Can I take communion?

At Central Lutheran, we joyfully celebrate Holy Communion every Sunday, embracing an inclusive practice known as the Open Table. This means that the bread and wine, which symbolize the body and blood of Christ, are offered to everyone—regardless of whether you are Lutheran, Christian, or have no religious affiliation.

Our Open Table reflects Christ’s boundless love, inviting all to partake and experience the warmth of our community without any conditions or barriers. We believe that everyone is welcome to join in this sacred meal as a testament to God’s inclusive grace.

For those who are new to Holy Communion or would like more information about the process, please refer to this detailed list of communion steps: What is Communion and How Do I Do It?.

I wouldn’t really call myself a person of faith. Can I come to your church?

Feeling uncertain about your beliefs? You’re not alone—many of us share those questions! Come join us as we seek answers together, worship in community, hear God’s word, and pray for one another and our world. Everyone is welcome here!

Can I get baptized at your church?

Holy baptism is one of only two sacraments in the Lutheran Church (the other is Holy Communion), and as such needs to be considered very seriously. There are certain promises to be made by the baptized (or their sponsors if they are children) that should not be made lightly. Because of this, consultation with the pastor is required before every baptism. If you wish to have you or your child baptized at Central Lutheran, please contact Pastor Veronika at Reverend.Veronika@gmail.com.

Can I get married at your church?

We’re excited to offer our beautiful sanctuary and Parish Hall for your wedding! We welcome all couples, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, to celebrate their wedding with us. We offer Christian and spiritual services. For more information, visit our Wedding Information page, or contact our administrative assistant, Rachel, and she can help you. Her number is 214-327-2222 and her email is central.lutheran.dallas@gmail.com. To ensure we can accommodate your ceremony, we recommend reaching out well in advance, especially since our worship schedule limits availability on Saturdays.

Can you host a funeral service for my loved one?

Central Lutheran does offer funerals/ memorial/ celebration of life worship services to members and non-members alike. Our music director is available to play the piano or organ for the service. Our pastor is also willing to do a graveside service if requested. For more information on these potential events, reach out to our pastor, Pastor Veronika at reverend.veronika@gmail.com.

What’s your Statement of Inclusivity?

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), and by extension Central Lutheran Church, recognizes its mission and ministry within a multicultural society and world. We are deeply committed to welcoming and affirming cultural diversity, and we actively confront racism while advocating for justice for all people, regardless of ethnicity, culture, economic status, primary language, gender, sexual orientation, or ability.

We believe in the inherent dignity and worth of every individual, including those who identify as LGBTQ+. The ELCA recognizes same-sex marriage, and we at Central Lutheran Church affirm this stance, supporting the right of all couples to celebrate their love and commitment in the eyes of God and our community.

Living out these commitments in our daily lives involves acknowledgment, discernment, and action to confront the systemic issues that exist both within individuals and society. While much has been accomplished, we recognize that more work and progress are needed. This progress can only be achieved through collaboration with partners who share our vision for a just and inclusive community that honors all people, regardless of their nation of origin, ability, or any other characteristic.

Together, we strive to build a community where everyone is embraced, celebrated, and empowered to live fully and authentically.