The reading of the Scriptures, preaching, and hearing the Word of God, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing with grace in our hearts to the Lord; as also the administration of baptism, and the Lord’s Supper, are all parts of religious worship of God, to be performed in obedience to Him, with understanding, faith, reverence, and godly fear;
[2nd London Baptist Confession of Faith (1689), Ch.22, par.5]
God is both the object and the director of our worship. Therefore our services are designed to honor and glorify Him. In all we do, we seek to obey His clear directives in Scripture for how we are to worship Him.
In accordance with our confession of faith, quoted above, our worship services include the reading of the Scriptures, the preaching of the Scriptures, prayer, joyful, grace-filled singing, and the administration of the ordinances.
Each week we begin our worship with the reading of a Psalm, followed by prayer. During the course of the service we will have a combination of other Scripture readings, a pastoral prayer, a sermon, and the singing of several hymns of praise (accompanied by the piano), ending with a benediction.
Below are some frequently asked questions.
How should I dress?
We encourage you to dress modestly, and in a way that shows respect to Almighty God.
What translation of the Bible do you use?
Our Scripture readings are from the King James Version, and our pastor typically preaches from the New King James.
Do you have Sunday School?
Our “Sunday School” hour is a family-integrated class called Christian Life Academy (CLA). We follow a rotating schedule of topics designed to equip the saints for the Christian life. CLA includes a time dedicated to teaching our children the basics of the faith and equipping parents to follow up during the week.
All Age Christian Life Academy Topics:
1st Sunday: Systematic Theology – A summary of the theology taught in the Scriptures: 1689 Second London Baptist Confession of Faith
2nd Sunday: Biblical Theology – How to read and study the Bible, and understand the major themes of Scripture within larger biblical storyline
3rd Sunday: Church History – An overview of important events and people in the history of the church
4th Sunday: Christian Living – How our faith is practiced in our daily lives
5th Sunday: Missions – Learn about, and pray for, current missions work around the world
What happens on Wednesday nights?
Our Wednesday evening service is a Bible study and prayer time. This service typically begins with a hymn, a time of sharing prayer requests and praise reports, then a time of prayer, followed by teaching. The Bible study is taught by one of our Elders.
What is a Family Integrated church?
AND THESE WORDS, WHICH I COMMAND THEE THIS DAY, SHALL BE IN THINE HEART: AND THOU SHALT TEACH THEM DILIGENTLY UNTO THY CHILDREN. [DEUTERONOMY 6:6,7]
We practice an age-integrated model where all ages worship together. A portion of CLA is devoted to speaking directly to our children, instructing them in the basics of the faith, and equipping parents to follow up during the week.
We encourage families to bring their children into the Worship Service, as we do not have a nursery. Crying and cooing babies do not bother us. Moreover, we believe it is important for children to worship with their parents and be taught how to sit through the Service (Ezra 10:1, Matthew 18:1-5). Feel encouraged to sit toward the front where it is easier for the little ones to see and hear what is happening and stay involved (Matthew 19:13-15).
Quietly take the time to explain the parts of the Service and the actions of the Pastor and ushers. Sing the hymns, pray, and voice the responses. Children learn liturgical behavior by copying you. We also understand that children have a sin nature; you are welcome to remove them from the room for instruction and training, but please come back (Ephesians 6:1-4)!
The foyer has been arranged for the instruction and training of children. It is equipped with several pews, a large window into the sanctuary, and speakers so you can hear and see the service as you disciple your children to worship.
Furthermore, we invite our soon-to-be adult children to converse with our church family adults – to glean wisdom from them as they grow and mature into the next generation of church members and leaders (Deuteronomy 6:4-9). Remember that how we welcome children in Church directly affects how they respond to the Church, God, and one another. Let them know that they are at home in the house of worship.
The presence of children is a gift to the Church, and they are a reminder that our congregation is growing. Please welcome our children and give a smile of encouragement to their parents.