Emanuel’s membership is diverse, spanning the political, economic, and cultural spectrum. Our common bond is our belief that we are all sinners, saved by the grace of God. Our worship style is liturgical, somewhat formal and traditional, but at the same time open to spontaneous outbursts of joy. Every week, we sing, read the scripture with special focus on the Gospel, learn from the Sermon, and culminate by celebrating Communion. All baptized Christians are welcome to join us at the altar. At present, our music, which features our beautiful pipe organ, is a mix of traditional and newer Christian music.

We strive to be a friendly and welcoming community, open to all. Pastor Lynette (Lyn) Crase leads our community and an elected Church Council governs our activities. Emanuel Lutheran Church is a member of the Sierra Pacific Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA). The ELCA is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with about 4 million members in nearly 10,000 congregations. The Sierra Pacific Synod encompasses forty-eight counties in Northern California and thirteen counties in Northern Nevada.

We offer at least three Bible studies each week, plus several monthly groups, recognizing the different interests and time availability of our members. We also have many social gatherings and supplemental study groups, including regular activities for our older youth.
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We host and sponsor a Day Care – Early Childhood Education Center that accepts children of all faiths and cultures. We are quite proud of the service that our Day Care staff provides to Modesto.

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