I don't typically "rate" churches. Participating in a local church is not a transactional consumer…read moreexchange, where we seek the greatest benefit or experience at the lowest cost. Rather, a local church is a family relationship where we love, serve, and build one another up in Christ. That said, if you're looking for a new local church in Minneapolis - or if you've never been to a church and want to check out Christianity - then I commend Bethlehem to you. I've been a member here for a few years, and these are the things I love most: Gospel-centered theology. At Bethlehem, all of church life centers around the will of God as revealed through His Word, the Bible. We are sinful, fallen humans looking to a perfect, awesome God. Therefore, rather than shape our teachings or our lives after the ever-changing winds of doctrine in the world around us, we hold fast to the unchanging Word. As individuals, when we encounter passages that are difficult or with which we may initially disagree, we're encouraged to wrestle with those passages and allow the Word to re-shape our beliefs and priorities. The alternative - assuming our pre-conceived beliefs are somehow axiomatically true, and therefore twisting or editing the Word to fit what we want it to say - is of course ridiculous and the height of arrogance. The Word is living, powerful, and life-giving, so we look to it and defer to it in all things. Faithful leadership. I've been tremendously blessed by the pastors and elders at Bethlehem. They model Christ in all that they do. They act not with arrogance or condescension, but rather with love and grace. They have a passion for Jesus and for the flock over which He has made them shepherds, and they strive to lead their people well and to follow the Spirit in all things. Bethlehem is only able to flourish because of their faithful, humble, selfless servant leadership. Christ-focused worship. Weekend corporate worship at Bethlehem is never self-focused or world-focused, but rather always Christ-focused. Bethlehem espouses "Christian Hedonism," the belief that God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him. Therefore, everything in the worship service - the music, the scripture, the prayers, the sermon - points us to Christ. The gospel message always works itself into the worship service, continually reminding us that we're sinful humans incapable of meriting God's favor, yet we're loved by God and adopted into His family through the atoning work of Jesus Christ, and we're therefore called to repentance and righteousness for His glory and for our eternal joy. Discipleship-oriented small groups. When I first came to Bethlehem, it was difficult to get connected, since the church is so large. That's where small groups come in. Small groups at Bethlehem are the main vehicle for "life on life" within the church. They're where we confess sins, speak truth to one another, encourage one another, apply the gospel, pray, and ultimately build discipling relationships within the church. Many of my deepest friendships have been formed through my small group, and participating in a small group is an integral part of church membership at Bethlehem. Missional outreach. We live in the age of the "already but not yet." Christ's victory over sin and death has already been achieved, and we anticipate a glorious kingdom future to come, but that kingdom isn't yet fully here, and we still suffer from the effects of sin. Therefore, one of the chief jobs of the church is to prepare for the kingdom to come by preaching the good news to the lost and by laboring so that the future kingdom might to some extent break through into our present reality. Bethlehem is intentional about equipping missionaries across the globe - as well as regular churchgoers here in Minneapolis - to fulfill the Great Commission by sharing the good news of Jesus Christ and making disciples. Bethlehem also labors to pursue ethnic harmony and diversity within our church membership. We long for our local church to reflect Christ's universal church in the age to come, when a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language shall praise the Lord together. And finally, Bethlehem prioritizes social justice in our mercy ministries. The kingdom of Jesus Christ is a kingdom of and for the "small people": the vulnerable, the marginalized, the poor, the oppressed. The haughty have no inheritance with Christ, but the humble He loves and embraces. Therefore, we labor to serve and to champion the marginalized in our society, such as the unborn, those with disabilities, migrants, and those who suffer from racial injustice. Just as Christ came for the least of these, so too do we care for those whom the world often neglects. As you perhaps can tell, I love being a member at Bethlehem. If you're curious who Jesus is and want to meet Him - or if you've known Him for a long time and need a new church home - then come to Bethlehem, and here you shall find Him.

I attended the North Campus for many years, and was baptized there. There are many kind people…read morefollowing Jesus in this church. They do sound teaching and preaching well from the pulpit. This church was kind to me and my family, and was a good place to learn a lot of good things, but they don't do community particularly well. When I graduated from Seminary and asked for the chance to volunteer and get involved, it was very difficult to earn their trust. There are a lot of good things about this church, and it was a privilege to attend. Unfortunately I was in the membership process for over 2 years and was never able to get through the process. The leadership was very slow and unresponsive in this respect. Ultimately we moved on as God led us.

We have been attending for years but not officially members. The music is great and messages really…read moreinspiring. It is a mega church so noone will bother you or see if you missed a Sunday. Before covid, we liked going Saturday at 5, so our Sundays were free. Now they just have Sunday services, 2 of them. Covid also ruined the live animals at Christmas which was really cool. We have become a little irritated with 2 pastors and their liberal ideals. Although they can't promote politics, it is blatantly clear who they support. 2 sermons were about the upcoming election. Church is not the place. We are upset enough to look elsewhere.

Terribly over priced and under organized Christmas concert. What a huge disappointment…read more Sunday mornings are even worse. Given the size it is inconceivable that the church is so poorly staffed from the staff to senior pastor.

I visit this church when I am in St. Paul. It is a great congregation, with wonderful progressive…read moreChristian Spirituality and values. You will appreciate the wide variety of programs for all ages, the music program is strong. You won't go wrong if you are looking for a progressive christian community.

This is my church. I've been going here for a couple of years now. We share the church building…read morewith two other congregations - one United Church of Christ (UCC) and the other Disciples of Christ. We trade around sanctuaries every few weeks. After going to a great UCC church in Somerville Massachusetts (shout out to First Church!) it was important to me to find a church that was (a) radically welcoming and (b) acting in a Christian community that was bigger and broader than just other ELCA Lutheran churches nearby. The church is radically welcoming. There is a strong legacy of being tuned into GLBT issues. Our previous minister (who moved on to be lead pastor of a University Church) was selected as our minister even though, at the time, it was not permitted by our denomination (ELCA) because she was lesbian and refused to abide by the church's then-current policy on human sexuality. This congregation helped push the ELCA, which is now, if not welcoming to the queer community, is at least openly confused about what to do with GLBT issues. (Our new minister, by the way, is also great. I swear she could give a great sermon in her sleep.) The membership is of kind of two generations. There are a lot of older folks, who disproportionately attend the early service at 8:30. Do not be fooled by their age and curly old lady hair - these are awesome people who stuck with the church through some really tough spots. They are engaged, open minded, and deeply loving. There are also younger folks who were attracted by the church's radically welcoming message. You'll see more of them if you come to the second service at 10:30. The generations mingle during adult ed between the services, at volunteer events, etc. The church right now is focused on trying to live out - to identify needs in the community and respond to them. Some of our focuses are environmental issues (we've adopted a nearby section of the greenway) and the refugee crisis (all three churches recently voted to become sanctuary supporting). We also do normal Lutheran church volunteering like Feed my Starving Children and Open Arms Minnesota on a regular basis.

I first found Salem four years ago, and I am so glad I did. It is more than just a church building…read moreor place of worship. It's a community of welcoming, kind people who have taken great strides to envision a different, relevant way to be people of faith in our context and time. I highly recommend visiting sometime!

I'm giving Aldrich 5 stars because it was my childhood church and formed me into the person I am…read moretoday. In full disclosure, Aldrich is an urban PCUSA church, and like many mainline denominations, its membership has declined and aged in recent years. Still, the place is open, earnest, and welcoming and I always enjoy going back. I've only heard the new pastor preach once, but it was an excellent and poignant sermon. My brother - a high school senior - plays the piano and sings in the worship band. That's saying something I think - that a talented high school kid would want to spend every Sunday morning playing songs at church with a lot of people who are well past high school age. Finally, I got married here, and so did my parents, so rock on Aldrich!

I've been attending Aldrich now for almost a year. I didn't give it 5 stars because its not…read moreperfect... music could be better, preaching is pretty good, coffee and cookies after are so-so. But these things aren't what make a church. What makes a church is a community of people living as people of God, and the community at Aldrich is rich in this regard. The people are unique, sometimes a bit odd, but they are very welcoming, intentional and have a huge heart for God. This church isn't perfect, but it shouldn't be. At Aldrich you won't find a performance, you'll find a fellowship of real people living their lives for God.

We moved to Lakeville from Northern MN about 18 years ago. We visited several churches to find…read morewhere we would be most comfortable. At the time, our daughter was about 10 and so youth ministry was important as well. It's true there's a big difference between attending a church as a visitor as opposed to being a member. I find the people at St. John's Church to be serious in their worship and they genuinely welcome any body who wants to attend our church. Most of the congregation may be somewhat laid back about seeking out visitors. This-unfortunately--is common in most churches. I suggest you visit us 3 times to get a broader feel for what we offer. Fill out and wear a name tag. We have a significant number of young families at St. John's. Along with that, we have a strong education package for ages 5-adult. A church should have two general purposes: First, to strengthen your relationship with God; Second, to strengthen your relationships with each other. I believe this mission is done well, but remember as a guest, it's very important you introduce yourself to at least the Pastor. We may even have a gift for you. If you're looking for a church, come and check us out; Do the St. John's Three-Peat by visiting us 3 times. We're a church growing in number and in the Spirit...I love it here.

St. John's is a welcoming community of Christians that work to make life better in the Westonka…read morearea. Church services are fun, children's ministry are world class and the Pastors will meet you where you are in your faith journey. This Saturday with partnership with the local food shelf they are sponsoring a Farmer's Market in parking lot to distribute vegetables and fruits to those in need. This is just one of the many outreaches the Church coordinates and sponsors. Join us on Sundays at 9:00 am or 10:45 services.

If you're looking for a tired, repetitive, stale church that offers the same message every week in…read morea repetitive and formulaic fashion...this NOT the church for you. Prairie Community Church is a fresh and friendly community church with an energizing message every week. The music is uplifting and harmonious while complementing every aspect of the service. You'll walk out in a serene and positive mood ready to face any and all trials and tribulations that may confront you in the coming week. Be ready for a genuine and enthusiastic greeting when you walk in the door. Parking is free!