Life with God – Fall 2026

St. John Lutheran Church

655 Wayne Avenue • Defiance, Ohio

Discover. Ask. Learn. Grow.

Have you ever wondered…

Does God really exist?
Can the Bible be trusted?
Why do bad things happen?
What happens after we die?
Why are there so many different churches and religions?
What do Lutherans believe?
How do I become a member of St. John Lutheran Church?
 
If you’ve asked any of these questions—or simply want to grow in your faith—we invite you to join Life with God (LWG 1).

Life with God is a welcoming, discussion-based course designed for anyone who wants to explore Christianity in a relaxed, enjoyable, and encouraging environment. Whether you’re investigating the Christian faith for the first time, considering membership at St. John, or simply looking to refresh your understanding of God’s Word, this class is for you.

There is no pressure to become a member. Come, ask questions, and learn at your own pace.

Participants are encouraged to attend 10–12 of the 12 sessions. Those who complete the course and desire to join St. John Lutheran Church may become communicant members.

St. John offers Life with God each Winter, Spring, and Fall, and current members are encouraged to attend at least once every five years to renew and strengthen their faith.

Topics Include

Evidence for God’s Existence
The Bible
Saving Faith
Law & Gospel
Baptism
The Lord’s Supper
The Ten Commandments
Living the Christian Life
Good Works
Worship
Christian Stewardship
The Lutheran Reformation
Being Part of the Body of Christ at St. John Lutheran Church

Come learn, grow, and ask questions in a friendly, Christ-centered setting.

Class Information

Dates: September 14, 2026 – December 14, 2026

When: Monday Evenings

Time: 6:30–8:30 p.m.*
Class time may be adjusted, if needed, to best accommodate participants’ schedules.

Location:
Adult Education Room A

What to Bring:
Nothing! All materials will be provided.

Following the second class, participants will receive a class notebook to keep. Because each lesson builds on the previous one, new participants will not be added after the second session.

Our final class will include refreshments and snacks shared by the class.

A Confirmation/New Member reception date will be scheduled following completion of the course.

Instructor

Rev. Kurt F. Mews

Pastor Mews has been leading the Life with God course for more than 23 years, helping individuals and families grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ and understand the teachings of the Christian faith.

Who Should Attend?

Life with God is designed for:

Adults and high school students interested in becoming members of St. John Lutheran Church.
Current members who want to renew and strengthen their faith.
Friends and family members wishing to support someone attending.
Anyone interested in learning more about Christianity or Lutheran beliefs—with absolutely no obligation to join the church.

Everyone is welcome.

Registration

Please return the completed registration form to the church office or give it directly to Pastor Kurt F. Mews.

Life with God Registration Form

Name: _______________________________________________

Address: _____________________________________________

Phone: _______________________________________________

Email: _______________________________________________

Have you been baptized? ☐ Yes ☐ No

Current Church Membership (if applicable):

Please check all that apply:

☐ I plan to attend Life with God because I desire to become a communicant member of St. John Lutheran Church.

☐ I plan to attend to renew my faith and/or support a friend attending.

☐ I plan to attend to explore Christianity and Lutheranism with no obligation to become a member.

☐ I plan to attend and will decide later whether to pursue membership.

Questions, comments, or prayer requests:

For more information, contact the church office at 419-782-5766 or email Pastor Kurt F. Mews at pastor.mews@stjohndefiance.com.