New Here? You're all good.
Knowing what to expect when walking into a new place makes it a little easier. So let's answer the important stuff.
What happens when i walk in?
You'll probably see someone at the door who knows you're new. They will show you where everything is, introduce you to a few people, and help get you settled. You will not be expected to magically know what's going on.
Other valid questions
What should I wear?
What you typically wear.
can i bring a friend?
Feel free to bring someone!
is there food?
Yep! Dinner is provided at our monthly gatherings (usually the last Sunday of the month, 6–8 PM). For other events, we'll always let you know what food is available and whether there's a cost.
Is it going to be super-churchy?
Sometimes we talk about God and Jesus. Sometimes we don't. It will be clear which gatherings do and which ones don't. You can participate in things without pretending to be something you aren't.
is someone going to make me pray out loud?
No. We believe in agency and respecting the dignity of every human being. You won't be forced to do anything you don't feel comfortable doing.
do i have to be lutheran?
Nope! The Lot Youth is a ministry of Lutheran churches, but you don't have to be Lutheran, Christian, or even sure what you believe to belong here. Come as you are. Questions, doubts, and different perspectives are welcome.
do i have to believe in god?
Nope. You just have to believe in respecting the dignity of every human being.
do i have to talk?
No. You can hang back until you're fully comfortable.
What if i don't know anyone?
It will be okay. We promise! We're pretty intentional about making sure no one gets stranded alone.
what is it you actually do?
Eat. Hang out. Go places. Make things. Talk about stuff that matters. Occasionally do something ridiculous. Learn how to be a good human with other good humans.
what if i'm socially awkward?
Excellent. So are we. You don't have to know how to walk into a room full of people you don't know to participate. That's one of the things here we work on.
you don't have to be good at youth group.
There isn't a right personality for this place. You don't have to be outgoing, religious, funny, cool, athletic, musical, or good at making friends.
The whole point is that this is a place to practice.
Practice meeting people. Practice asking for help. Practice trying something you're terrible at. Practice disagreeing without ending a friendship. Practice figuring out what matters to you. Practice being someone other people can count on.
And you don't have to have it all figured out before you get here.
