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Worship
Normally our services are thematic and revolve around one central
truth that ties everything together. Although this requires a fair
degree of forethought and planning, we always seek to remain open
to God’s Spirit leading us in a different way. Therefore,
we maintain a measure of flexibility and spontaneity.
Music
Our particular calling involves a contemporary style of music which
we hope helps communicate Christ in a relevant way to our modern
culture. This has been a common practice throughout history. For
example, Martin Luther used various culturally familiar music styles
in his hymns, and Handel’s Messiah was at first rejected as
being too worldly and modern in style. This does not mean we do
not value or use more traditional forms, just that we have an emphasis
distinctive to our mission.
Clapping and Raised Hands
Many of our folks enjoy clapping or raising their hands in worship,
both of which are commended in the psalms. We trust you will allow
them such freedom and that you will feel free yourself either to
participate, or not. Sometimes our folks will also clap after a
song or drama. They don’t do so because they were entertained,
but because they are thanking God and encouraging their friends.
We encourage you to follow your own conscience.
Messages
Our messages address relevant topics that relate to everyday life.
However, they are also based clearly on the Scriptures -- normally
from one particular passage, which is taken in its proper context
and explained and applied in an understandable way. Many times,
these messages are part of a broader series as we work through particular
books of the Bible.
Offering
We do not pass an offering plate or basket in order to avoid making
our guests uncomfortable. Instead, we hope you will see this service
as our gift to you. We invite those already committed to our ministry
to place their offering in the boxes provided on their way in or
out of the worship celebration.
Art
Drama, visuals, dance, movie clips and more are often used in our
services; not to entertain, but to help us appreciate how the Scriptures
address real life. These forms serve to illustrate the sermon through
beauty rather than the spoken word alone. (Ezekiel, Jesus, and other
biblical figures often used various forms to communicate God’s
message.)
Greetings
Normally we have a time for greeting each other during the services,
which is a current application of a practice that dates back to
the early church. It reminds us that, in Scripture, public (or corporate)
worship differs from private worship in that there is a horizontal
(people-to-people) element, as well as a vertical (people-to-God)
element.
Communion
Generally, we celebrate communion every month and attempt to make
it unique and special. We avoid scheduling it more often to help
prevent it from becoming sterile or mere formality.
Dress
We believe God is more interested in the state of our hearts than
what we wear. (Scripture never outlines a dress code). Therefore,
we emphasize freedom, whether formal or very casual, as long as
we all remain respectful to the Lord, and caring toward others.
Tape Ministry
Message tapes and CDs are available for $2 each from the Information Center
in the foyer. (Because of copyright laws, we are unable to tape
the music portion of our worship services). Free used and miscellaneous
message tapes are available in the basket at the Information Center.
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