We want you to be comfortable when you visit with us! Some feel uneasy attending a public gathering for the first time–not knowing what to expect. Some are even reluctant to attend the services of a church when they are unfamiliar with what happens. Maybe this will let you know what to expect…
Prayer: There will be several prayers during the service. And, there may be prayers for specific needs and requests. (1 Timothy 2:1-8)
Singing: One of the unique things about the churches of Christ is that the music is “a cappella.” That is, we sing without the accompaniment of musical instruments. Since the New Testament leaves instrumental music out, we simply believe it’s best to exclude it as well. We think you’ll find the singing meaningful, with everyone being invited to participate. (Ephesians 5:19, Colossians 3:16)
Lord’s Supper: If you visit on a Sunday morning, the Lord’s Supper will be included in the worship proceeding. If you choose not to participate, don’t be embarrassed; feel free to just pass the plate or tray to the person next to you. During this memorial, plates containing pieces of unleavened bread will be passed throughout the congregation. Next, trays filled with small cups will contain “fruit of the vine,” usually grape juice, symbolizing the blood of Jesus. The first century church celebrated this observance on the first day of the week, as Acts 20:7 says.
Giving: Also, if you visit on a Sunday, containers will be passed around to the collect the weekly financial offering (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). As our guest, you are not expected to make a donation or offering. Feel perfectly comfortable in just passing the collection plate or container on down the row.
Preaching: You will be able to sit quietly and follow along in your Bible as we hear lessons from the Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16; Romans 10:14). The sermon will likely be from 20 to 30 minutes. At the close of the sermon, the preacher will “extend an invitation.” There may be several who respond, or none at all. Some may respond for baptism, or to confess sins, or some to ask for prayers for a specific need.
What kind of people can you expect to find? Pretty much the entire spectrum. We’re a diverse group, coming from varied backgrounds, and at different stages of knowledge and spiritual growth. We don’t know everything. We don’t do everything right. As Jesus said in Mark 2:17, ”Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.” That’s the reason we can worship together, stick together, and, with God’s help, accomplish some things that make a difference.