Over my 94years, my wife and I have had memberships in both small, medium and large Lutheran congregations. They have all been great experiences. It is not the SIZE of the congregation that really matters, but, rather, the PEOPLE in these churches --are they friendly or are they "stand-offish?" Also, and most importantly, what are the Pastors like? Are they friendly and welcoming to all or do they consider themselves "little popes?" Fortunately we have always found several friendly and welcoming parishes. Our first congregation here in Saginaw, Michigan was TRINITY (corner of 9th and Cherry Streets). It no longer stands. My Aunt Lois Schallhorn's Father was our Pastor -- The Rev. August F. Bernthal. Next came Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Saginaw. Rev. Dr. Andrew Zeile was our Pastor. He also was President of the LCMS, Michigan District, for several years, and when his eyesight began to fail, he used to have me drive him around, locally and throughout the State. Walter Wangerin and Carl Heilman are two wonderful Vicars I recall. Next came Good Shepherd Lutheran Church on Brockway Road in Saginaw Township, with the wonderful Re. Paul Beck, who was not only our pastor but also a close personal friend, along with his wonderful wife, Gail. Finally and most recently, we have been members of Peace Lutheran Church, Saginaw, founded by Pastor Lorenz Webber. Pastors Matthew Hauser and Erik Shmidt are our pastors now. Both wonderful, caring men of God, who preach the Gospel week after week, as it was meant to be preached, factually & lovingly! We are so fortunate to have them both!