Wednesday Advent Services

We welcome you for 3 Advent Services
December 3, 10, & 17th | 8:30am & 6:30pm.

You will hear about how the Gospel is Peace and we will have no fear of the future, no fear of failure, and no fear of lack.

Advent Meals

Wednesdays December 3, 10, & 17 we will offer dinner at 5:30pm-6:30pm in the school cafeteria

Dinner is free, we are asking for an offering toward our 8th grade class trip

Children's Christmas Programs

Come hear the story of Jesus birth on Sunday, December 14
Our day school children will have special songs and narration to share
3K-2nd Grade at 9:30am
3rd-8th Grade at 10:30am

There will be birthday cake for Jesus and baked goods from our 8th graders between services (free will offering).

Christmas Eve Worship

We hear the prediction of the birth of the Savior and about his birth and those who worshipped him, hear special music by talented musicians, and sing favorite Christmas hymns. We will light candles during our service to symbolize that Jesus is the light of the world and the darkness will not overcome it.

Join us December 24 | 11:00am, 1:00pm, & 6:00pm

Christmas Day Worship

The Savior has arrived! We sing joyous hymns of praise and hear about how Jesus is the Word and how he shines as a light in the darkness since the beginning of time

Join us December 25 | 9:30am

Christmas Hymn Sing Service

You chose the hymn! In a Zion Lutheran Wayside favorite, this special service includes a message of Christmas joy with hymns chosen by the congregation.

Join us December 28 | 9:30am

A Personal Welcome to Our Services & Events

As the Senior pastor at Zion Lutheran Church, I personally welcome you to one of our Christmas services or events.

Christmas is when we celebrate one of the greatest mysteries: God becoming man in Jesus Christ.

He came and dwelt with us on earth, so that we might dwell with Him in heaven through the forgiveness of our sins.

That is an occasion worth celebrating, and we invite you to celebrate with us.

pastor kyle wangelin

What is Christmas About?

“Rejoice: The Lord Is at Hand”

When was the last time you felt like rejoicing? In society today, we don’t always feel like we have a lot to celebrate. Our newsfeeds are constantly filled with stories of wars, disasters, strife in our neighborhoods, illness among our loved ones. Most of us carry this conduit of “bad news” around in our pocket all day every day, and we’re quick to look every time our phone dings. We even invented a new word, “doomscroll,” to describe how it feels to spend a lot of time scrolling through social media. It’s no wonder that rates of anxiety and depression are skyrocketing, especially among young people.

Things were not perfect during the apostle Paul’s time, either. In the Book of 2 Corinthians, Paul wrote of “a thorn … given me in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to harass me” (2 Corinthians 12:7). Later, he would be martyred for the faith in Rome. Even so, he wrote to the Christians in Philippi: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. … The Lord is at hand” (Philippians 4:4–5).

This Advent season, we rejoice because the Lord is at hand — even for us today. Jesus Christ came to earth as a baby born to the Virgin Mary some 2,000 years ago. Even though He was the Son of God, He took on human flesh and blood in order to also take on the sins of every person who would ever be born. By dying on the cross on Good Friday and rising again on Easter Sunday, He conquered sin, death and the devil — for us. That’s something truly worth celebrating! Because Jesus came, we have the assurance that God loves us and keeps us in the palm of His hand, no matter what may come.

That’s also why we take time during the busy month of December to study God’s Word in the Bible. Take a break from doomscrolling and join us in reflecting on the enormity of what it means that God sent His Son to earth — for us. We call the Gospel message of salvation in Jesus Christ the “Good News,” but it’s really the best news in the world, and it’s worth sharing with everyone.

I invite you to join a local congregation of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod this Advent and Christmas in worship. While there, you’ll hear the truth about God and His Son, Jesus Christ. You will also learn about why Christians can rejoice, even amid trial and hardship. “The Lord is at hand” for us today, tomorrow and always.

In Christ Jesus,

Rev. Dr. Matthew C. Harrison, President The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. (John 1:14, ESV)

What to Expect

Where do I sit?

We have long, wooden benches with backs on them. We call them ‘pews.’

You are welcome to sit in any pew you prefer. On some Sundays, we may have a few pews in the front reserved for groups observing a special occasion like a baptism or confirmation. During Christmas programs we have a few pews reserved in front from our auction winners.

You can expect a warm welcome, reverent and relevant worship, and Christ-focused, biblical teaching at Zion Lutheran Church.

You will arrive at Zion Wayside in our narthex – a room outside of our worship area (sanctuary.) Our worship services are held in the sanctuary, our fellowship between services is held in our cafe adjacent to the narthex, and our education events are usually held down the hallway in the school commons and classrooms.

If you are here for a worship service, an usher will hand you a bulletin, and you can find a seat in whatever pew you like. Our pastor will also often greet you before the service.

Our worship services are about an hour long. You will find them to be reverent but also relevant to our greatest struggles.

What is worship like?

Worship consists of readings from our holy book called the Bible, an explanation of those readings (sermon,) prayers, and singing. At most of our worship services, the congregation confesses its wrongdoings (sin) and receives forgiveness. We also observe a small, ritual meal called Holy Communion at most of our services. At some of our worship services, an individual may receive a ritual application of water called Holy Baptism.

Our worship services follow an ancient and set pattern. We often call this the “Liturgy.” You will find that our worship services are reverent. We believe that God comes to us at worship – that’s not a holy thing, so we treat it that way.

Even though our worship services are reverent, you will find that they are also not “stuffy” or irrelevant. Worship is heartfelt and can even be surprising.

Worship services are mostly led by an organ or a piano with praise team.

Do I have to participate?

You are welcome to participate in the worship service to the extent that you feel comfortable. You do not need to sing any hymns or speak the creed or any other responses.

In general, it is polite to stand when the rest of the congregation stands and to sit when they sit, if you are able. However, if you are unable to stand or feel uncomfortable standing for the portions of the worship service when we stand, you are free to remain seated.

If you are not a communicant member of a Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS) congregation, we ask that you speak with the pastor before receiving communion at our altar.

We make this request out of love for you and your spiritual well-being.

If you are unable to receive communion at our altar, simply remain seated during the communion distribution or come forward with your arms crossed across your chest for a blessing.

Will I be identified as a visitor?

We will not call special attention to you as a visitor. You will not be asked to stand up or introduce yourself.

Does it cost money?

Our worship services are provided free-of-cost.

We have an offering plate at the entrance to our sanctuary (worship area). If you wish to contribute to our ministry, you may leave a contribution there.

However, do not feel compelled to leave a contribution.

Can I take communion?

We welcome communicant members of sister congregations in the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (LCMS) to receive communion at our altar.

If you are not a communicant member of an LCMS congregation, we ask that you speak with the pastor before receiving communion.

We make this request out of love for you and your spiritual well-being.

If you are unable to receive communion at our altar, simply remain seated during the communion distribution or come forward with your arms crossed across your chest for a blessing.

How do I dress?

You will see all types of dress at Zion – jeans and hoodies as well as dresses and suits.

Are children welcome?

Yes, Zion welcomes children. We have many child-focussed programs like Sunday School, Catechism Class, and Youth Group.

Children are always welcome in worship at Zion. We do not hold a “children’s church,” because we want our children to worship with us, so that we can be blessed by their example of faith.

We understand that children can be restless and noisy. That’s okay! We are a church with a school so there are several families in worship each Sunday.

If you feel like you need to step outside to calm your child, however, there is a convenient area to do so just outside the sanctuary.

Get Directions

8378 County Road W
Greenleaf, WI 54126

Contacts
920-863-2463
church@zionwayside.org

Brown County Christmas Services

At Zion Lutheran Church, our Brown County Christmas Services invite you into a quiet, sacred celebration of Christ’s birth. With candlelight, Scripture readings, and historic Lutheran hymns, these services create space for worshipers to slow down and savor the peace God gives. Whether you’re a traveler seeking a Christmas service while visiting Brown County or a local looking for a reverent place to worship, you’ll find a warm welcome and the comfort of Christ’s promise.

Brown County Christmas Events

Zion Lutheran Church offers Brown County Christmas events that highlight the joy, music, and meaning of the season. From Advent devotions to festive gatherings and opportunities for community prayer, each event helps families and visitors prepare their hearts for Christmas. These simple, Christ-focused traditions provide a peaceful alternative to the rush of holiday activities. Join us in Brown County for events that encourage reflection, fellowship, and the celebration of Jesus’ birth.

Green Bay Christmas Services

Celebrate Christmas in Green Bay with worship services that lift up the wonder of the Incarnation. At Zion Lutheran Church, our Christmas liturgy is rich with Scripture, timeless hymns, and the beauty of candlelit worship. Each service offers a moment of stillness and awe as we hear again the good news of Christ’s coming. Whether you’re rooted in Green Bay or spending the holidays nearby, you’re invited to rejoice with us in the Savior’s birth.

Green Bay Christmas Events

St. Peter’s Lutheran Church hosts a variety of Green Bay Christmas events designed to help families and visitors experience the season’s deeper meaning. Enjoy music, fellowship, Advent reflections, and simple traditions that draw people closer to the hope of Christ. These gatherings provide a warm, welcoming space for all who seek something more than the usual holiday bustle. Come join the Green Bay community as we celebrate Christmas with faith, joy, and togetherness.

Manitowoc County Christmas Services

Join us for Manitowoc County Christmas services that blend reverence, beauty, and the comfort of God’s Word. At Zion Lutheran Church, our traditional Lutheran worship proclaims the miracle of Christ’s birth with readings, carols, and candlelight. Whether you’re from the countryside, a nearby town, or simply passing through Manitowoc County, our congregation welcomes you to gather with us. Experience the hope, peace, and promise that only the newborn Christ brings.

Manitowoc County Christmas Events

Celebrate the season with Manitowoc County Christmas events at Zion Lutheran Church. Our Advent gatherings, musical moments, and Christ-centered activities help families and neighbors prepare for the joy of Christmas. These events are designed to be warm, simple, and spiritually grounding—ideal for anyone seeking meaningful traditions in the midst of a busy season. Whether local or visiting, you’re invited to share in the fellowship and faith that unite our community at Christmastime.

Wrightstown Christmas Services

Experience Wrightstown Christmas services at Zion Lutheran Church, where the message of Christ’s birth is proclaimed with clarity, reverence, and joy. Our candlelit worship, Scripture readings, and timeless Lutheran hymns provide a moment of peace in the midst of December’s busyness. Whether you live in Wrightstown or are visiting the Greenleaf area for the holidays, you’ll find a warm, welcoming congregation ready to celebrate the Savior who brings light and hope into the world.

Wrightstown Christmas Events

Zion Lutheran Church offers Wrightstown Christmas events that help individuals and families experience the season with deeper meaning. From Advent reflections and musical gatherings to simple, faith-filled traditions, each event points us back to the hope found in Christ’s coming. These gatherings create space for fellowship, prayer, and joyful anticipation of Christmas. Whether you’re from Wrightstown or traveling through the area, we invite you to join us in celebrating the birth of Jesus with warmth and community.

Denmark Christmas Services

Experience Denmark Christmas services at Zion Lutheran Church, where the message of Christ’s birth is proclaimed with clarity, reverence, and joy. Our candlelit worship, Scripture readings, and timeless Lutheran hymns provide a moment of peace in the midst of December’s busyness. Whether you live in Denmark or are visiting the Greenleaf area for the holidays, you’ll find a warm, welcoming congregation ready to celebrate the Savior who brings light and hope into the world.

Denmark Christmas Events

Zion Lutheran Church offers Denmark Christmas events that help individuals and families experience the season with deeper meaning. From Advent reflections and musical gatherings to simple, faith-filled traditions, each event points us back to the hope found in Christ’s coming. These gatherings create space for fellowship, prayer, and joyful anticipation of Christmas. Whether you’re from Denmark or traveling through the area, we invite you to join us in celebrating the birth of Jesus with warmth and community.