We want you to visit us at Center Christian Church, and we want you to feel comfortable. But we know an unfamiliar place can be intimidating. So, here's what you can expect when you honor us with a visit. Our church family is a group of all ages and at different stages of spiritual growth.
The Setting
We offer informal Bible study classes for all age groups in smaller classrooms starting at 9:30 on Sunday mornings. If you prefer to come just for a regular service, our morning worship starts at 10:30 a.m.
Parking extends along Center Road with a large parking lot located on the west side of the church building.
When you arrive you may be greeted at the door with a handshake and a copy of this week's bulletin for the week's services and events. Our greeters are there to help you find where you're going and to answer any questions you have about the service.
Sunday School classes are held in individual areas throughout the building. Worship services are held in the sanctuary, where there is plenty of seating. There are no reserved seats, so feel free to sit anywhere you choose.
Children
We offer a staffed nursery during all classes and services. Our "Children's Church" program is conducted during the normal worship time. Our greeters will be happy to direct you to the Children's Worship area, or you're welcome to keep your children with you throughout the service. Parents are welcome in the nursery as well.
Dress
Most people dress according to their own comfort levels, but it is entirely a personal decision. On Sunday mornings, you will find men and women in suits and dresses as well as in slacks and jeans. Because of children's activities, summer and Wednesday evening clothing tends to be a bit more casual. Although we are committed to opening our hearts and lives to anyone in need, we would suggest modest attire.
The Worship Service
As your getting seated a "prelude" of music is played by piano and organ. Most services start with a song or with brief announcements. You are welcome to use this time to fill out a vistor card that you will find in the pew rack in front of you. (This is optional, but will allow us to get to know you a bit or respond to any needs that you may have.)
Also in the pew rack you will find a hymn book and Bible for you to use. The page numbers of hymns will be announced and are also listed in the bulletin. The song leader may ask the congregation to stand for certain songs.
The pastor won't be wearing any special garments to set him apart. No one will refer to him as "Father". The reason for this is that the Bible teaches that all believers are "priests" and have equal access to God. The pastor is a spiritual leader in our church family but also an approachable friend. His personality and sense of humor will make you feel comfortable.
At the close of the message, the preacher will extend an invitation. This is simply a time to invite those who need to do so to make a commitment or request prayer support. Don't feel ill-at-ease during this invitation. If you would like to respond you only need to step out and walk to the front where the pastor will meet you. There may be several who respond, or none. Some might respond to indicate they are interested in knowing more about having a personal relationship with God or having their sins forgiven. Others may respond to ask for prayer for a specific need, or to make a renewed spritual committment in some area of their lives.
The morning service usually concludes by 12:10 p.m. We would love for you to stay after services for a few minutes, if you can. We would enjoy getting to know you. The pastor, deacons, or others from the church family would be glad to answer any questions you may have.
Communion and Offering Time
We include The Lord's Supper or communion during our Sunday services. This is an observance of Christ's death and a celebration of His coming return. During this memorial, plates containing unleavened bread (like small crackers) will be passed. This symbolizes the body of Jesus. Next, trays filled with small cups will be passed. The cups will contain the "fruit of the vine" (grape juice) to symbolize the blood of Jesus. The "bread" and the "cup" are just that -- symbols -- and while this is a special time of remembrance and celebration for the church family, no special grace comes to those who take part in it.
If you are new to our church, but are a believer and have accepted Christ as your savior, you are welcome to participate. Otherwise, don't be embarrased. Just pass the plate or tray to the person next to you and enjoy the message.
During most services, we will pass plates to collect offerings for the ongoing expenses and ministries of the church. As our guest, you are not expected to make a donation. If you have filled out one of the visitor cards, you can place that in the offering plate and pass it on down the row.
We look forward to meeting you! If we can answer any other questions for you prior to your visit please contact us.
Will you come and join as we worship and celebrate in the love and grace of our King and risen Lord?
