*By Appointment Only Monday through Saturday*
No matter your story, we welcome you to join us as we all try to be a little bit better, a little bit kinder, a little more helpful—because that’s what Jesus taught. We are a diverse community of followers of Jesus Christ and welcome all to worship here. We fellowship together as well as offer youth and children’s programs.
Jesus Christ can make you a better person. You can make us a better community. Come worship with us. Church services are held every Sunday. Visitors are always welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Can anyone attend Church services?
Yes! Jesus Christ invites all people to come unto Him. As stated on the signage outside the meetinghouse: “Visitors Welcome.”
What time does your Church meet on Sunday? How long are Church services?
COVID: Church services typically last one hour. NON-COVID: Church services typically last two hours. The first hour consists of a worship service for everyone and the second hour of different classes for children, youth and adults.
What can I expect at your Church worship service?
The Church meeting always starts with a welcome and announcements from one of the lay leaders. Next, an opening song by the congregation and prayer offered by one of the members is followed by another hymn while the communion in remembrance of Jesus Christ is prepared and distributed to those who desire to receive it. Then, one or two of the members of the congregation (including youth and children) give talks--sometimes a musical number is performed by a member of the congregation or choir. The lay leader gives some brief concluding words followed by a closing song and prayer. On just the first Sunday of each month the members of the Church fast for the poor and needy. Instead of speakers a few members of the congregation choose to share their feelings with the others about Jesus Christ and how grateful they are for him.
Do you provide virtual or in-person tours of your Church? Who can I call, or text, if I want to find out more about your Church?
Yes, we give informal Church tours at your convenience! Call or text us at the phone number listed to arrange for a tour, or just ask questions about our Church.
Should you dress up to attend Church?
All are welcome to dress as they want but many do wear their “Sunday best” clothes on Sunday. For weekday activities everyone dresses more casually.
Are youth and children welcome at your Church?
Yes, even babies. There is also a mother’s room for nursing mothers and a nursery for children one-year-old and older to attend for the second hour.
Is there a social media account for your Church?
Yes. We have a Local Church Facebook Page you can access by typing in the search field the following: “WalkwithChristBakken” Just LIKE it and you will receive inspiring posts from time to time from local members and missionaries.
What are the acceptable names of your Church?
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or The Church of Jesus Christ. You can learn more about the Church’s by going to its website by typing “comeuntochrist” into the search field. You can also go to the Church’s newsroom for more facts and statistics about the Church.
Are we Christians?
Yes! Definitely. As members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, we believe Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Savior of the World. He loves us all more than we can imagine. Does that mean we have exactly the same beliefs as other Christian churches? No. But we definitely consider ourselves devoted followers of Jesus Christ.
Can I participate if I’m not a member?
Yes! You are invited to join us for weekly activities, service projects, social outings, and worship services. We’d love to get to know you and will appreciate your involvement in our Church community.
Do I have to donate money during church services?
No. We don’t solicit donations or pass a plate during our services. Contributions by members are made privately. Learn more about tithing.
Can anyone attend services at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in McLaughlin?
Yes! Jesus Christ invites all people to come unto Him. Visitors are always welcome as stated on the signage outside the meetinghouse.
What are the typical times and duration of Sunday church services?
During COVID, church services typically last one hour. Normally, they last two hours—the first hour is a worship service for everyone, and the second hour consists of different classes for children, youth, and adults.
What can I expect during a worship service at this church?
Services start with a welcome and announcements, followed by songs and prayers. Communion is prepared and distributed to those who desire to receive it. Members, including youth and children, give talks, and sometimes musical numbers are performed. On the first Sunday of each month, members fast for the poor and needy and share their feelings about Jesus Christ.
Does the church offer tours or opportunities to learn more?
Yes, the church offers informal tours by appointment. You can call or text the provided phone number to arrange a tour or ask questions.
What is the church's dress code for attending services?
All are welcome to dress as they wish, but many choose to wear their “Sunday best” on Sundays. For weekday activities, casual attire is common.
Are children and youth welcome at the church?
Yes, children of all ages, including babies, are welcome. There is a mother's room for nursing mothers and a nursery for children one year old and older during the second hour.
Are there local schools near the church where families might have children attending?
Yes, nearby schools include McLaughlin Mustangs, McLaughlin Elementary School, and Head Start preschool, which offer educational opportunities for children and youth in the community.
What nearby facilities can visitors access for health and emergency services?
The Indian Health Center McLaughlin South Dakota and Standing Rock Ambulance Services are nearby, providing health and emergency medical services to visitors and community members.
Are there dining or entertainment options near the church for visitors?
Yes, nearby options include The Chuckwagon and Prairie Dog Cafe for dining, as well as the McLaughlin Community Theater & Cafe for entertainment, making it convenient to enjoy local food and arts before or after church activities.
Is the church accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes, the church has wheelchair accessible entrances, parking, seating, and restrooms, including unisex and wheelchair accessible restrooms to accommodate all visitors.