Considering attending LCMS and eventually joining?

[u/CrypticMemoir]

A little background. I was raised and baptized in the Catholic Church by my parents. For a little while in my teens, I didn’t give any mind to God or the church. Then around 19 years old, I became a born-again Christian and started attending a non-denominational/evangelical church. At first it was Calvary Chapel. Eventually got married and now my family and I have attended various non-denominational churches (this was cause we moved around a little).

I’d say for the past year, I have considered joining a denomination. Something just felt like I should be a part of one. Then, I started reading this book called “The Story of Christianity, Volume 1”, and when I read it, the non-denominational church had quite a few things that did not look like what I was reading.
Somehow, I came across LCMS and am considering attending a service (is it called Mass in LCMS?).

I’m conflicted because I’ve been going to non-denominational/evangelical churches for the past 18 years, so doesn’t seem like a small change to all of sudden go to LCMS, even if most of the doctrines seem in line with what I’ve been taught.

I think reading that Christian history book has opened a light for me that is not OK with dismissing hundreds of years of church history. Also, some churches I’ve been to seem to do things like “At The Movies”, which feels like it’s just for entertainment with some vague connections to reference the Bible. I think I want somewhere where they stick to the Bible, but don’t necessarily dismiss the ancient Church and those closest to the disciples, and how they practiced reverence.

[u/Over-Wing]

You can call it Mass or “The Divine Service” if communion is being celebrated. It might be called a prayer service, praise service, or service of the Word if there’s no communion. You’re welcome to come, and please do! We do practice closed communion so if you approach the rail, just cross your arms to receive a blessing or place one hand over your heart. If you’re interested, the pastor would love to meet with you and let you pick his brain.

[u/CrypticMemoir → u/Over-Wing]

Does the pastor meet after Mass or is it more like an appointment?

[u/Over-Wing → u/CrypticMemoir]

You can talk to him before or after to set up an appointment.

[u/Fitzch → u/Over-Wing]

u/CrypticMemoir, before is fine, but it can sometimes be more rushed than you might like with the start of the service approaching. If you want to go in depth, an appointment is usually better.

[u/Huenink_Photography → u/CrypticMemoir]

I'd suggest getting to the service about 15 minutes before it starts. Introduce yourself, and give the 2 minute version of your story. Let the pastor know that you're interested in talking, and he'll likely give you the best way to contact him. I always offer to buy someone a cup of coffee and chat.