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All are invited.
All children are invited, too.
All children are invited, too.
Sunday Worship at 9:30 am
1235 Wilmette Ave. Wilmette, IL
In person or Online (Zoom link below)
All children are invited, too.
All children are invited, too.
All children are invited, too.
Children's Church on Sundays at 9:30 am
1235 Wilmette Ave. Wilmette, IL
In person only
Join us in supporting the arts! Free concert Saturday, Nov. 8 at 4 pm
This lyrical oratorio by Telemann portrays the course of a single day: a journey through light, time, and spirit. While this concert is free, you can show your appreciation by donating to the musicians. All contributions go directly to the performers.
Music draws us together—it lifts our hearts, strengthens our sense of belonging, and reminds us we’re part of something larger than ourselves. Gathering through music is a simple but powerful act of togetherness. Join us for this hour long concert and refreshments after.
Activism Training with Garrett Seminary on Oct. 25, 9 am - 3 pm
Garrett Seminary and the First Presbyterian Church of Wilmette are sponsoring an activism training for faith communities on the North Shore on October 25, from 9-3. Rev. Dr. Abby Mohaupt will help identify pressing issues in our community and then lead everyone in a strategic organizing and planning process, so we can take action. The training includes breakfast, lunch, snacks, and a break.
All are welcome to join. There is no cost to attend. Register today!
Our Beliefs
Our Mission, Vision, and Values
Our Mission, Vision, and Values
We are part of the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church of America) and believe that God's image is present in everyone and that God is working to liberate the vulnerable and oppressed.
Our Mission, Vision, and Values
Our Mission, Vision, and Values
Our Mission, Vision, and Values
Our vision is a community actively participating in God's love and justice. Our mission is to transform lives through connection, worship, education, and meaningful action in our community.
Our Staff
Our Mission, Vision, and Values
Families and Youth
Our staff is always looking for new opportunities to connect within and beyond the congregation and our community. They would love to get to know you and answer any questions you may have.
Families and Youth
Families and Youth
Families and Youth
At St. John's, our youth and family ministry programs offer meaningful connections and opportunities for service. We support all our youth as they develop a faith that transforms how they live.
GoodFest
Families and Youth
Service Sundays
GoodFest, with Tributosaurus, Antler Chandelier, and dinner from the Backyard Barbeque, was a big success. Thank you for helping us support Family Promise North Shore Chicago. See you in 2026! 🔥
Service Sundays
Families and Youth
Service Sundays
Join us for an innovative style of worship where we blend worship with a service project. We gather to sing hymns, share communion, and use our hands to care for the world around us.
Our Music
Service Opportunities
Sharing Our Space
From solo guitar to traditional organ, handbells to string quartet, children's chorus to gifted cantors, and from traditional to contemporary music, we make a joyful noise here at St. John's.
Sharing Our Space
Service Opportunities
Sharing Our Space
If you are advancing good in our community, we have a home for you. Our beautiful building is in the heart of downtown Wilmette and has a variety of spaces that we share in support our community.
Service Opportunities
Service Opportunities
Service Opportunities
There are many ways to get involved and support our community, from local partnerships with non-profits and interfaith groups to migrant support, sandwich ministry, and more.
OUR WELCOME STATEMENT
St. John’s is committed to welcoming and celebrating all people in loving God and one another. We believe you are a unique and beloved child of God. We welcome people of all races, cultures, ethnicities, ages, gender expressions, sexual orientations, physical and mental abilities, socioeconomic positions, family structures, backgrounds, or wherever you are in your faith journey. We commit ourselves to be welcoming to all through discernment and anti-racism work. We invite you to share your input in this lifelong journey. We hope you will join us as we seek God’s grace and joyfully and inclusively love and serve our community.
First Visit FAQs
Where are you?
The church is at 1235 Wilmette Avenue in Wilmette, at the corner of Wilmette Ave. and Park Ave., across from the Wilmette Public Library.
What should I wear?
Wear what's comfortable to you.
Will I fit in?
Whether you’re coming with friends, family, on your own, like traditional worship or something more modern - or even if you’re unfamiliar with a Lutheran church – you’ll find a home here.
How will I know what to do?
Inside the entrance, greeters will welcome you and share a bulletin explaining what will happen during the service and you may sit wherever you want! There are times during the service when people stand or sit, the leaders of the service will guide you. If you prefer to sit throughout the entire service, feel free. Many people do.
Do I have to put money in the collection plate?
We do take a collection, but financial contributions are voluntary. If you don’t want to put anything in the plate, just pass it to your neighbor. Many members donate electronically, so you won’t be the only one passing.
Can I take communion? What do I do?
Yes! It is Jesus Christ who first welcomes us to His open table. This includes people of all ages, religious affiliations, beliefs or lack thereof. Jesus didn't place any qualifiers on communion, He simply said, "do this in remembrance of me," therefore an outstretched hand is enough to receive the sacrament.
During communion, people walk to the front of the church, by row. The pastor places bread in your palm and says, “the body of Christ given for you.” You'll then receive a small cup of wine from the person assisting with communion saying, “the blood of Christ shed for you.”
It’s also okay to receive only the bread. If you prefer a blessing, then go up to the front with everyone else and just cross your arms over your chest. You’re also perfectly welcome to remain in your seat for meditation. Signal an usher if you need communion brought to you in your seat.
Gluten-free and alcohol free option elements are always available, just ask!