Sunday Worship at 8:00 AM & 10:30 AM

Faith Lutheran Center is located at Southern Plaza in Rio Rancho, NM, on the northeast corner of Unser and Southern. Our address is 2003 Southern Blvd SE, Suite 116.

Phone Number: 505-891-3619

Come worship with us at 8:00 AM & 10:30 AM this Sunday!

WHAT WE BELIEVE AND TEACH

THE BIBLE:   We believe and teach that the Bible is the inspired Word of God and the authoritative source and norm of the church’s proclamation, faith and life. The truth we learn in the Bible is both reliable and dependable for believing and living as followers of Jesus Christ.

GOD:    We believe and teach that there is one God who is the Creator of us and all that exists. God has revealed himself to us as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. God expresses his power through what he has created. God makes himself known to us through the person of Jesus, the Lord and Savior of us all. God continues to make himself known to us through the presence and power of the Holy Spirit.

JESUS CHRIST:   We believe and teach that Jesus is the Christ. He is Savior and Lord. This is expressed in the words of the Apostles’ Creed, “I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended to the dead/hell. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.”

THE HOLY SPIRIT:   We believe and teach that the Holy Spirit is the presence and power of God at work in the world, especially in human lives. The Spirit is at work in convicting sinners of their need for God’s grace, and in empowering people for effective Christian living. The Spirit produces “fruit” in the lives of believers as expressed in the fifth chapter of Galatians: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

SIN:   Sin describes our condition and our actions…what we are and what we do. All of life is affected by sin. Sin separates us from the Lord causing discord and brokenness with God and with others. Sin is expressed not only in broken relationships, but in personal greed, unloving thoughts, disobedient actions and hurtful deeds as well.

SALVATION:    Salvation describes God’s activity in restoring us to a right relationship with himself. God forgives us and gives us the promise of eternal life. Through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, God provides salvation which makes it possible for us to be saved from the consequences and power of sin. Out of his gracious love this salvation is offered through the Word and Sacraments and received by faith. Faith is believing and trusting Christ as Savior and Lord. We believe and teach that we are saved by God’s grace through faith in Jesus. We believe and teach that God desires for all people to be saved, rejecting the idea that some people are predestined to be saved and others are predestined to be lost.

CHRISTIAN LIVING:    Christians are called by God to live in a way that is pleasing to him. The Christian life is one of dependence on the Holy Spirit, who equips people with wisdom, discernment and power to do the will of God. The fruit of the Spirit as expressed in Galatians is evidence of a God-pleasing life. The Christian life is also expressed in responsible management of resources such as time, money, and abilities; in sacrificial giving to make the Gospel known to all people; and in helping to prevent and alleviate suffering.

THE CHURCH:    We believe and teach that the Church is the people of God, the Body of Christ, created and sustained by God himself. All Christians are part of the church universal (catholic). The Biblical expression of being a member of the Church is faithful participation in worship, regular fellowship and generous support of the mission of one’s congregation.

SACRAMENTS:   We believe and teach that Holy Baptism and Holy Communion are the two Sacraments given by Jesus Christ to his Church. We teach that Baptism is the sign and means of incorporation into the Christian life and the Church. Through Baptism God makes us his own as we are joined with Christ and with his people. Both children and adults are candidates for Baptism, which means we baptize both believers and the children of believers. We do not “re-baptize” people, but accept the validity of all Christian Baptisms. We teach that it is imperative for children who are baptized to come to a personal faith in Christ in order for the promises of Baptism to be effective. Even though we teach the importance and necessity of Baptism for Christian discipleship, we do not teach that unbaptized children are lost from God.

HOLY COMMUNION:   Also called the “Lord’s Supper” and the “Eucharist” in many congregations. We teach that Holy Communion is the meal of grace that God uses to reassure, renew, and strengthen us in our relationship with him. It is also a sign and means of our unity and fellowship with other believers. We teach that in and with the bread and wine of this Sacrament we receive the Body and Blood of Christ for the forgiveness of our sins. God fills us with the life and presence of Christ through this precious meal. We are to receive this Sacrament with a believing heart, trusting that God loves and forgives us more than we can imagine and more than we deserve. All adult Christians are invited to participate in Holy Communion along with children who are prepared through our “Welcome to The Lord’s Table” classes.

OUR LUTHERAN IDENTITY:    We identify with the Church movement which began in the sixteenth century in Europe, sometimes called the Lutheran Reformation. We teach the Lutheran themes of grace alone, faith alone, word alone and Christ alone. We are a member of Lutheran Congregations in Mission for Christ (LCMC)  and are involved cooperatively in the mission of the Church around the world.

THE THINGS TO COME:   We affirm the words of the Apostles’ Creed that Christ “will come again to judge both the living and the dead,” and we believe in “the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting.” We avoid what we view to be speculative teachings concerning the “end times.” As Christians, we believe that every day is an opportunity to live in a vital, loving, and growing relationship with God. We do not fear the future. “Nothing will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:39)

HUMAN SEXUALITY:    The Christian Church is called to be in the world, but not of it. Our lives are to reflect the will and purposes of the God who created and loves us. The Word of God, not the ways of the world, is the ultimate standard by which we are called to live. This includes our sexuality, marriage and the ordination of pastors.

Many denominations and congregations have already or will soon be deciding on what they believe and teach regarding human sexuality. Here at Faith, we believe the teaching of the Scriptures and the nearly 2,000 year old traditions of the Church are clear on such matters. As a result of our faith and conviction, we affirm the following statement as adopted by the Church Council of Faith:

We believe, teach and confess that:

1. Sexuality is a good gift God graciously bestows on humanity for the sake of love, devotion, and procreation.

2. By creating us male and female, God has built gender complementarity into the very fabric of human existence.

3. Marriage, the lifelong union of fidelity between one man and one woman, is the only relationship God has ordained for the full expression of human sexuality.

4. Marriage is neither a private arrangement nor merely a human construct or custom. It is, rather, a divine institution by which God has founded human community in a joy that begins now and is brought to perfection in the life to come.

5. Neither the Scriptures nor the Lutheran Confessions grant any authorization to the church to recognize as divinely approved any relationship other than the marriage of one man and one woman for the full expression of human sexuality.

 JENNIFER WILSON joined the Faith Youth Ministry Team, in early May 2012, as the West Campus Children, Youth & Families Minister.  Jennifer earned her Ph.D. in Neuroscience, but felt a strong calling to ministry, while completing her doctoral studies. Jennifer served for 5 years in Michigan, at Faith Wesleyan Church, where she was Director of Children’s Ministry and Early Childhood Director. Jennifer and her family recently moved back to her hometown of Albuquerque.

 JAMES MCINTIRE joined the Faith Ministry Team, in September of 2011, as Director of Worship Music at Faith Lutheran Center. He is a wildly talented guitarist & composer who brings over 20 years experience in leading music for worship. Many have also encountered James’ inspirational music when he, along with the other half of his long-time guitar playing duo, known as Acoustisaurs, have played at venues throughout New Mexico and while on mission, serving in China. James’ other passion is martial arts. Sifu James McIntire and his wife, Mindy, own Jade Tiger Kung Fu & Tai Chi Studio in Rio Rancho.

 MINDY MCINTIRE joined the Faith Ministry Team, at the end of April 2012, as West Campus Ministries Coordinator. Mindy handles the day-to-day operations of the West Campus and also serves as Pr. Breidenbach’s administrative assistant. She offers a wealth of experience in I.T. support, church administration, and has even served in church praise bands as a bass player! During worship, you will see Mindy at the Audio/Visual desk, switching all of the graphics and visual elements for worship. Mindy and her husband, James, also share a passion for martial arts and own Jade Tiger Kung Fu & Tai Chi Studio in Rio Rancho.

Pastor David Breidenbach

ABOUT THE ALTAR

THE WOODEN CROSS, featuring Martin Luther’s rose seal, was created and hand-carved by Nick Garcia. The cross reminds us that Christ is central to our faith and theology as an orthodox, evangelical Christian congregation, while the rose seal represents our expression of Christianity through our rich Lutheran heritage.

THE COVENANT OF THE CUP altar painting, by Vicki Garcia, was inspired by the work of German artist, Tobias Kammerer, as found in two Lutheran sanctuaries at Odesa, Ukraine. The Faith Lutheran Center altar features Vicki Garcia’s talent and artistry as a painter of traditional retablos and reflects our unique New Mexico heritage. The powerful symbolism and strong colors used serve to remind us of the redeeming grace and love of the Holy Trinity: God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

THE YELLOW SHAFT OF LIGHT, streaming down from above, represents God’s providence and the descending of the Holy Spirit upon Jesus at his baptism in the River Jordan, anointing him as the Savior, and at his Resurrection. The Yellow Color throughout the building reminds us of our own anointing by the Holy Spirit, at our baptism, in which we are each uniquely gifted as members of the Body of Christ – the People of God.

THE GOLD RING represents the Cup of the New Covenant, which holds both, Christ’s blood that was spilled out as the final offering for the forgiveness of sin; and the wine, which we receive every time we celebrate Holy Communion. The Color Red can be seen throughout the building as a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.

THE BLUE WATER flowing from the cross represents the water that spilled from Christ after he was pierced, while hanging on the cross, and that he is “the spring of water welling up to eternal life” (John 4:13,14). The Color Blue in the Sanctuary chairs also represents the waters of Holy Baptism, through which we are adopted as children of the same Heavenly Father.

THE COLOR GREEN can be found throughout the building and is also the finish chosen for the altar furniture to represent our new life found in Jesus Christ and the sure and certain hope we may each know in the hearing, reading, and preaching of the Living Word of God!

May 12, 2013 ~ Children of the Law

If all we need is the faith of Abraham to inherit the kingdom of God, what purpose does the Law play in our walk with Christ? Pastor David will teach the importance and purpose of the Law and how it marks a clear distinction between our lives as children of the same Heavenly Father and mature Christian disciples of the Gospel, in Jesus Christ.

Scripture Texts: Genesis 15:1-6; Romans 4:13-25; Galatians 3:1-9, 23-29; 4:1-7

APR 28, 2013 ~ Breaking With Tradition

What happens when revered traditions bump right into sharing the Gospel? Join Pastor David Breidenbach for a look at this and similar questions asked by the first century church and how what we often practice and hold as sacred in the 21st century Church does not necessarily translate into fulfilling the Great Commission. ALL ARE WELCOME! 

Scripture Texts: Isaiah 45:18-25; Romans 3:21-31; Acts 15:1-18

APR 21, 2013 ~ Huddles & Missional Communities

Is the way most congregations “do church,” today, the way that was modeled for us in Christ’s earthly ministry? You may be surprised at the answer. Join Faith Lutheran Center Lead Pastor, David Breidenbach, in exploring the “Jesus way” of being the church and making disciples.

Scripture Texts: Exodus 18:13-26; 1 Timothy 3:1-13; Acts 6:1-7

APR 14, 2013 ~ What Now? 

Easter Sunday has come and gone, what now? Is there something more profound and life changing about the resurrection of Christ that, perhaps, you and I are missing? Faith member and the Director of East European Missions Network, Pr. Bill Moberly, asks this question and others that are cause to look more closely at what God would have us do in the knowledge and reality that everything changed after Christ came into the world.

Scripture Texts: Revelation 5:11-14; John 21:1-19

APR 07, 2013 ~ Community in Christ

How important is it to be in genuine community with fellow believers? It is so important that Jesus modeled it, and the first century Church lived it out in the daily rhythm of their life shared, together in Christ. In this sermon Pr. David Breidenbach teaches from examples we have been given in Scripture and the importance of maintaining the personal relationship we have been given with God in Christ Jesus and those with whom we share our faith.

Scripture Texts: Ezekiel 37:1-14; Acts 2:22-24; Luke 24:13-35

MAR 31, 2013 ~ Easter Sunday

Isn’t Easter really just based on some ancient pagan festivals, or is there something more to it than bunnies and chocolate eggs? Pr. David Breidenbach answers these and other questions, while focusing on the real meaning of the Easter celebration and all of the history that points to the magnitude of its significance for Christians and all people, everywhere.

Scripture Texts: 1 Corinthians 15:3-22; Luke 24:1-16

MAR 17, 2013 ~ How Much Am I Worth?

Are some people worth more to God than others? Is a pristine $20 bill worth more than one that is well-worn from use? Faith Lutheran Center Lead Pastor, David Breidenbach, answers these questions about God’s economy and the value of things to the world. Pr. David also draws from Scripture the profound nature of Jesus’s calling in the lives of all those who seek him.

Scripture Texts: Ezekiel 34; Philippians 3:4b-11; Luke 17-18

MAR 10, 2013 ~ Bridging the Gap

Is Hell a real place or is it just a metaphor used to promote good behavior? If it is real, isn’t it just for the “really bad” people in the world? Pr. David looks into what Scripture has to say about these controversial topics of sin and hell; and offers some simple tools in helping to address these questions.

Scripture Texts: Acts 26:22-29; Luke 16:19-34

MAR 03, 2013 ~ Another Chance

Just how many chances do we get? Scripture assures us of God’s grace, mercy, and boundless love, but is there a limit to how many chances He’ll give us to get it right? Join Pastor David Breidenbach for a search in answering these questions and also in discovering some intriguing reflections on the life of Jesus.

Scripture Texts: Isaiah 55:6-9; 1 Corinthians 10:1-13; Luke 13:1-9, 31-35

FEB 24, 2013 ~ The Narrow Door

Aren’t there many paths to God? How can Christians be so sure Jesus is the only way? Faith Lutheran Associate Pastor, Jerry Watts, tackles these difficult questions by consulting the Word of God and His exclusive message of grace, love, and hope.

Scripture Texts: Philippians 3:17-4:1; Luke 13:22-30

FEB 17, 2013 ~ To Help A Stranger

How far would you go to save a dying person? Most of us are quick to answer, “whatever it takes!” Really? Join Pastor David Breidenbach, as he challenges our self-perceived compassion and encourages us to to seek the road less travelled.

Scripture Texts: Leviticus 19:9-18; Luke 10:25-42

FEB 13, 2013 ~ Ash Wednesday

What is Ash Wednesday really about? Where did it come from? Isn’t it just the beginning of a 40-day “guilt trip,” before Easter? Faith Lutheran Center Lead Pastor, David Breidenbach, answers these and other questions surrounding the beginning of our Lenten journey toward the cross and Christ’s glorious resurrection. Real answers for real people living in the real world.

Scripture Texts: Isaiah 58:1-12; Luke 9:51-62

FEB 10, 2013 ~ Stewards of God

What do zombies have to do with faithful stewardship? Does “stewardship” only mean giving your money? Faith Lutheran Church Senior Pastor, Dr. Bruce Wilder, challenges us to remember that stewardship refers not to just one segment of our Christian lifestyle but permeates every aspect of a life lived in Christ. 

Scripture Texts: Ephesians 2:1-10; John 15:1-17

FEB 03, 2013 ~ Affliction, Sin, and Grace

Why me, God? Often we feel burdened and “singled-out” by whatever challenges and struggles that afflict us. Is this punishment for our sins or is something greater than ourselves going on? In this week’s sermon Pr. David draws from three powerful testaments to God’s love, grace, and mercy in order to help put a healthy and biblical perspective on what ails us!

1 Samuel 1:9-18; 1 Timothy 1:12-17; Luke 7:36-50

JAN 27, 2013 ~ Lord of the Sabbath

What is the Sabbath, anyway? Is it just an excuse for doing nothing in the name of “rest” or is there something more to this day set aside by God? In this week’s sermon Pr. Breidenbach helps bring clarity in answer to these questions and  also asks, “What does the Lord require from us everyday?”

Scripture Texts: Micah 6:6-8; 1 Peter 2:9-10; Luke 6:1-16

JAN 20, 2013 ~ Camping, Wine and Christ

How do the wedding at Cana and a winter night spent camping in the the wilderness both speak to abundance in Christ? Faith Lutheran Center Lead Pastor, David Breidenbach, sheds some light and shares some profound insight to the often over-simplified retelling of Christ’s wedding miracle.

Scripture Texts: Isaiah 62:1-5; John 2:1-12

JAN 13, 2013 ~ Holy Scripture

With the aid of classical art and Luke’s introduction to his gospel account, Faith Assistant Pastor, Carol Clark, demonstrates the historical witness to the accuracy of the Bible and the profound nature of Scripture as the foundation for all truth and knowledge of our being sanctified in the Lord.

Scripture Texts: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28; Luke 1:1-4 

JAN 06, 2013 ~ What’s in the Water?

Why did Jesus get baptized? Is there really a difference between John having baptized in response to repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, and what baptism means for followers of Jesus Christ? Pr. David tackles these and other questions surrounding baptism, as we look at the beginning of Jesus’ ministry on this Epiphany Sunday.

Scripture Texts: Isaiah 43:1-7; Acts 8:14-24; Luke 3:1-22

DEC 30, 2012 ~ Is It Really Him?

Merry Christmas! How long was it before other people began to recognize Jesus as the promised Messiah? You may be surprised! Plus, Pr. Breidenbach will help shed light on the chronology of events, following Christ’s birth at Bethlehem.

Scripture Text: Luke 2:21-38

DEC 24, 2012 ~ CHRISTMAS EVE

Scripture Texts: Isaiah 9:2-7; Titus 2:11-14; Luke 2:1-20

Pr. Breidenbach began his sermon by asking:

‘How is everybody this evening? Have you gotten all settled-in to your holiday glow?

It’s been a tough year! The economic challenges; the uncertainties in the job market; healthcare; politics and the elections; the tragedies (like Newtown, CN) and all of the stress, emotions, and worry that came with our enduring these things. … have I missed anything?

It almost makes you wonder if we should be looking forward to what the New Year has in store or if we should enter it with a bit of trepidation. Either way, 2013 is coming!

How’s your holiday glow, now?  :-)

All of these realities of our living in this world seem to make celebrating Christmas all-the-more welcome, if not necessary, in taking a break and focus on something joyful and full of hope.”

The sermon audio picks up from here…