First Lutheran Church, ELCA

News & Stories

What's happening in our community.

Updates from the pastor's desk, ministry highlights, upcoming events, and stories from the people of First Lutheran in Hinckley.

Announcement

New Church Emails

July 2026

We're thrilled to announce our new church email addresses that align with our website domain! Please update your contacts and use these going forward for all church communications: • Pastor Erik: Pastor@flchinckley.org • Mindy (Youth Director): Youthdirector@flchinckley.org • Shawn (Administration): Admin@flchinckley.org • Kathy (Contributions): Contributions@flchinckley.org • Mary (Treasurer): Treasurer@flchinckley.org We're working to update our vendors and partner organizations with these new contact details over the coming weeks.

Event

National Night Out - August 4th

July 2026

This August, instead of our usual Community Meal at the church on the first Tuesday, First Lutheran Church will be embracing the vibrant spirit of our community by participating in the exciting events at West Side Park! Join us for the annual National Night Out and the Sweet Sounds of Summer music, where we will be serving delicious root beer floats. This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with our neighbors and showcase the warmth of First Lutheran Church in our beloved community. We invite you to come out, enjoy the music, and indulge in a refreshing root beer float!

Community

Egg Cartons

July 2026

We are collecting clean empty egg cartons. Please leave your donated egg cartons in the kitchen at church. Thank you!

Library

July Library Update

July 2026

Happy Mid-Summer! This month I want to highlight these categories of our church library: Section 5 — Devotional. There are many hidden treasures here. You may be looking for a new devotional to guide you in your faith. Before you click around on Amazon or other retailers, please check out what we have here! If you do not find what you are looking for, I would absolutely love to hear your recommendations for books to add to the church library collection. Feel free to email me the link, name, or general topic you are looking for. Another idea is to purchase the devotional you are interested in and donate it to the church library when you are finished. A couple devotionals to highlight: Alone with God: Devotions from Martin Luther, Good Lord, Where Are You? Prayers for the 20th Century Based on the Psalms, and Living the Lord's Prayer: Our Power and Promise. Section D — this section is devoted to our junior high readers, around 7th, 8th and 9th grade. The wonderful thing about our library is that we have titles that are both Christian- and faith-based AND secular titles that are timeless classics. Highlighted from this section are: Bridge to Terabithia, Brian's Hunt, and Chicken Soup for the Teen Soul. If you have suggestions or requests for books to be purchased for the library, please contact Alyssa by email: alyssacoop601@gmail.com. Thank you for your thoughtful consideration!

Youth

Youth Mission Trip Send Off

July 2026

Join us for a special blessing for our youth and adult leaders during worship on July 26, 2026! This will not only bless their commitment but also symbolize our community's support as they embark on their exciting journey of service and adventure to Duluth/Superior. To kick off this wonderful day, they will be providing treats for our 8:30 fellowship time. And don't miss the chance to gather for the after-church potluck, where we can share food and conversations, strengthening the bonds within our congregation. Come out to show your support for these incredible youth and leaders as they prepare to serve and make a positive impact in our community! Your presence matters, and together, let's celebrate this youth mission trip!

Pastor's Letter

On Being Made New

March 2026

Pastor Erik reflects on the season of Lent and the slow, gracious way God remakes us — one small turning at a time.

Outreach

Faith In Action Returns This September

February 2026

Our Wednesday evening gathering is back and better than ever. There's still a seat at the table for you — doors open at 5:00 p.m.

Youth

Confirmation Class of 2026

February 2026

Young people affirmed their faith last Sunday. Read what they wrote in their faith statements.

Music

New Choir Season Begins

January 2026

Adult choir, bell choir, and worship band rehearsals all start back up this week. No audition required.

Mission

ELCA Good Gifts: Your Impact

January 2026

A look at how your generosity through the ELCA Good Gifts catalog has made a difference for families around the world.

Event

Easter Worship Schedule

December 2025

Holy Week and Easter service times — including the sunrise service on the lawn at 6:30 a.m.