Most people are a little apprehensive about visiting a new church. We hope a few words will help set your mind at ease about visiting our congregation.
The church of Christ is a growing, friendly church. We are a diverse congregation that reflects the fact that God’s church is for all people. The crowd often ranges in age from newborn babies (a nursery is usually available) to those who have seen most of a century pass. Professionally, there are those from all walks of life-from blue collar to white collar to students to retirees. We have business owners, plant managers, educators, office workers, plumbers, retail employees, welders, and everything in between. Educationally, we have those with Ph.Ds, as well as those who have not spent much time in school. Most fall into the category of high school graduates to college bachelor’s degrees. Churches of Christ are diversified-people of all races and nationalities worship and work together as God’s children (Acts 10:34-35).
Every effort is made to allow visitors to feel comfortable. You will not be singled out during the service in any way. You will not be asked to make a ‘love offering’; in fact, no collections will be taken at all, except during the Sunday morning service when our members make their weekly contribution as an act of worship. Visitors are not expected to participate.
Our services generally open with a brief welcome from one of the members. The song leader then leads the congregation in two or three songs. An opening prayer is offered, followed by another song, and then the preacher delivers a sermon from the Bible. All are encouraged to bring their Bibles and follow along as he leads the study (2 Timothy 2:15).
At the sermon’s end, the Lord’s invitation is offered (Matthew 11:28-30) for any who want to become Christians or rededicate their lives to God. There is no coercion. During the Sunday morning service, the communion is observed by partaking of unleavened bread and fruit of the vine (1 Corinthians 11:23-29). Members make a financial offering for the poor and the spread of the gospel (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). Guests are not expected to give. The service lasts about an hour and concludes with a song and prayer. Guests may sit silently in the service, or they may participate.
Lord’s Supper observed each Sunday
The church of Christ has communion every week, just as they did in New Testament times (cf. Acts 20:7). It is a highlight of the week to commemorate Christ’s death and celebrate His promised return.
Beautiful singing
The whole congregation sings a capella (without mechanical instruments), just as they did in New Testament times (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16). Visitors may sing along or simply listen. Many first-time visitors comment on how beautiful the singing is. Some say they find it easier to focus on the song’s meaning since the words are more easily understood than with musical accompaniment.
So bring your Bible and come for that visit you’ve been thinking about. We’ll save you a seat.