I'M NEW

When you visit, you’ll meet a mix of families, adults, singles, youth and children who love God, and are excited to be part of a living, learning, and loving community in Christ!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS…

Is Woodlawn Chapel part of denomination?

Woodlawn Chapel is a congregation in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) denomination, which traces its roots back to the 16th century Protestant Reformation. Much of what Presbyterians believe began with the beliefs and ideas of John Calvin, a French lawyer, pastor and theologian. Calvin’s understanding of the church was particularly influential in Scotland, England and Ireland.Today, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is the largest Presbyterian denomination in the United States, with more than 1.4 million members. Click here to learn more about our denomination.

What's involved in joining Woodlawn Chapel?
Persons may enter active church membership in the following ways: by profession of faith, reaffirmation of faith in Jesus Christ, or transfer of membership from some other church. Those who wish to join participate in a membership orientation meeting with the pastor and are received by the Session (governing board). The Session encourages everyone to be welcomed publicly as a visible sign of our shared covenant of faith. Those who are interested in joining should contact the pastor. Youth desiring to join may also may participate in confirmation class, often held during the 8th grade year, or by participating in conversations with the pastor or youth minister
May I take communion?
Absolutely! Presbyterians welcome all to the Lord’s Table–regardless of your denomination. We often say this as part of our invitation to the communion table: “This is not a Presbyterian table; it is the Lord’s Table. Our Savior invites those who trust in him to share the feast which he has prepared.”
Are women and men both allowed to serve as leaders?
Yes! Members of the Presbyterian Church (USA) elect both men and women to serve as ministers of the Word and Sacrament, ruling elders, and deacons. Ruling elders are elected by the congregation to serve on the Session (the governing board) for three-year terms. Deacons are also elected by the congregation for three years and coordinate Woodlawn Chapel’s caring ministries.
Are your facilities and grounds available for use by the general public?
Yes. Our facilities and grounds are open to nonprofit and youth groups by reservation, subject to approval by the Session. Our building is fully accessible. Woodlawn is situated on 11+ acres, including a baseball/softball field and open areas often used by youth soccer teams. For more information about reserving the church, please contact the church office.
What's your worship like?
Our worship is scripture centered and abounds with music, prayer, and participation. Our pastor often preaches from the lectionary, which is an ecumenical schedule of scripture readings. Children are always welcomed and enjoy a special children’s message. You’ll find our music includes traditional hymns, contemporary songs, and gospel music. You don’t need to dress up for our worship, either.
Why do you say "debts" and "debtors" instead of "trespasses" and "those who trespass against us"?
That’s a great question! At one time, the word “debts” and “trespasses” meant essentially the same thing. Presbyterians and some other Protestant groups retain the language of the Lord’s Prayer found in the King James Version of the Bible. Other churches, such as Catholics, use a different version. Modern translations often use “sins” and “those who sin against us” which makes the prayer a bit more understandable.
Can I schedule at wedding at Woodlawn?
Yes. Members and non-members are invited to use Woodlawn Chapel for their wedding. Please contact the church for more information regarding fees, scheduling, and policies at (636) 458-3009, ext. 221. Please note: our sanctuary seats approximately 150 persons comfortably. Church policies require the use of our musician and pastor at all weddings conducted in the church building. The pastor is also willing to conduct your wedding service outside of the church.
Do you baptize infants or adults? How do I schedule a baptism?

Please contact the pastor at the church office  at 636-458-3009 to schedule a baptism. Baptisms of either children or adults occur as part of our regular worship. Celebrations of the sacrament of baptism are authorized by the Session and are normally scheduled at the mutual convenience of the church and parents or individual. As part of the preparation for baptism, the pastor will contact you to arrange a time to talk about the meaning of the sacrament and its importance in your journey of faith.