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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Helpful answers to some commonly asked questions heard at Mount Olive.
Questions about worship
When are worship services held?
During the program year (September to May) worship is each Sunday at 8:00 am and 10:30 am. From Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, Sunday services are at 9:30 am. The early service (8:00 or 9:30 am) is livestreamed each Sunday.
What is the style of worship?
Worship at Mount Olive is rooted in the liturgical tradition of the Lutheran Church, following the pattern of gathering, Word, Meal, and sending. Hymns, old and new, figure prominently.
Do you allow children in worship?
The absolute best way to teach the faith is when children and parents worship together. Parents are the best teachers of the faith. If young children “lose it” in worship, it is always appropriate to bring them to the nursery. Children grow into worship just as they grow into faith.
How often is communion?
At every Sunday service. Worship gathers us to hear the Word, then to share a family meal together (the Lord’s Supper). We are then sent back into the world strengthened by this sacrament of grace.
Who can participate in communion?
All are welcome, believing in the presence of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
What age do you allow children to commune?
Just as God’s invitation to baptism and promise of grace has no age, God’s invitation to the table has no age. Just as babies sit in highchairs at a family meal, all ages are invited to commune as the parents see fit.
Questions about the congregation
How many members are there?
Right around 600.
How do I become a member?
Talk to one of the pastors or Nancy Britson, Director of Congregational Life. New members are received in worship a few times a year, after a New Member Orientation where you meet staff, ministry leaders and other new members.
How is the offering used?
About 60% provides salaries and benefits for the pastors and staff; about 16% goes to the building mortgage, heat, lights and insurance; about 16% is given as benevolence to the ELCA and its charities; the rest supports education, music, youth programs and more.
Questions about the life of the church
What is the process for baptism?
Contact one of the pastors to begin. For parents bringing their first child, and for older youth and adult candidates, instruction with a pastor is strongly encouraged.
What is the process for confirmation?
Specific instruction for confirmation is done in grades 7 and 8. Each student meets with a pastor and writes a Faith Statement, read at a Church Council meeting. Affirmation of Baptism is typically on Reformation Sunday in the fall of 9th grade. Adult confirmation instruction is offered annually, usually in winter and spring.
Weddings?
Talk to a pastor — and see the Mount Olive Wedding Guide on our Weddings page.
Funerals?
Talk to a pastor. One of the best comforts you can give your family is to plan some of the details of your funeral. A packet of planning materials is available anytime in the office.