Immanuel Lutheran of Centralia is as warm and welcoming as any church service I've ever attended. When you arrive, you are greeted with a smile. As you enter the facility, you immediately see a bright, clean, open space with people casually chatting with each other. There is an unmistakable vib of friendliness. To my surprise and delight these is coffee house in the main lobby for your morning cup of whatever you like. Service started promptly at 10:00 AM with uplifting singing and a greeting from the Pastor. It's difficult to define the deep sense of spirituality, yet in a casual, non-formal way that permeates the sanctuary. The service was faced paced yet it included a nice mix of traditional as well as contempory music. It felt as if the grace of the Holy Spirit was with us all. There were children playing in the children's area of the sanctuary, so families are clearly welcome. After the service there was "coffee hour." A time for the members to visit friends and neighbors,and have a piece of cake or cookies. It's clear to me that there is a warmth here that makes a newcomer feel welcome. I was in my comfort zone immediately. I also discovered all of the positive things the church was doing as part of their community outreach programs, from caring for the sick and home bound to programs for young familes. If you are looking for an unlifting experience in a friendly, not stuffy or "old-fashioned" church, then Immanuel will do it for you. read more