Church in the Windshield

Church in the Windshield

First Lutheran Church of Dorrance

March 17, 2019

Drive West from Salina on Interstate seventy (I70) to exit 200 and turn left and drive a short distance and you will come to the City of Dorrance, Kansas.  Dorrance is a really neat little mid-western rural-town.  People are friendly there and their church is very important to them. Years ago, when the Methodist church closed, many of the Methodist congregation started attending the Lutheran Church.

The congregation of about thirty people regularly attends the church. On this particularly Sunday there were thirty three. The sign out front bids everyone welcome and truly this church welcomes one and all. We arrived early as we try always to do. First came one and then another and another until everyone arrived. We were especially intrigued by the large silver bell placed on a pedestal beside the sign. This heavy bell is a reminder of years gone by when it was in the bell tower of the old Lutheran church. The old Lutheran Church was torn down and a new one built and dedicated in 1973. We guessed that the bell could still ring though now it’s remained silent for more than four decades.  Finally, the prescribed time came for worship and we went inside where were greeted by the friendliest people. Pastor Rodger who is a PMA (Parish Ministry Associate) extended a cordial

warm and friendly welcome also. This is a second career for pastor and she currently holds another job as well.  My hats off to pastors; they work hard, go to school, take care of their families and churches, all at the same time.

As we travel we always look for something unique about each church. First Lutheran in Dorrance shares something unique not only to themselves but to many rural Kansas churches . . . your name. In First Lutheran, you are more than a number . . . you are a person . . . you have a name and they call you by your name. You become a part of the church family.

In Matthew 16:15-16 Jesus asked Peter . . . “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”  Names are so important.

There are so many things that affect the way we worship . . .  a welcoming sanctuary . . . bright light emitted from stained glass windows . . . the altar prepared for Holy Communion. Our minds wonder as we “soak up” images that direct our focus to God. Suddenly, our minds are jerked back to the reality of this day by music . . . beautiful music . . .  chimes in fact. The chimes are heard both inside and outside of the church, as they ring out the glory of God. WOW! Sheron and I were both very impressed and moved by the music.

The service progressed in typical Lutheran form with scriptural readings, responses and creeds. Pastor Rodger delivered a great message and then prepared the congregation for Holy Communion.

Holy Communion was a beautiful thing and certainly well done as row upon row made their way to

the front of the church. Upon receiving the Holy Eucharist we felt the presence of God and gave thanks. The service ended with a communion blessing, post communion canticle, prayer and a benediction. Truly, God was in this worship service.

Until next time, keep God first, and lift up the name of Jesus. Names are important especially the name of Jesus.

Ron & Sheron, the drivers behind the windshield

Epilogue: If you are traveling in this area and would like to worship in a place that would like to know your name, then visit First Lutheran in Dorrance.  The church is easily visible from the highway (200 Road) on the east side of Dorrance. The worship service starts at 9:30 a.m.