What is the style of worship?
Many churches advertise "contemporary worship," while others use "traditional" worship. We avoid separating the styles, so we use what's often called "blended" worship. Our blended style integrates the best of contemporary and traditional worship. We sing some old time favorites along with contemporary music. Our musical style ranges from classical to jazz.

What is the focus of preaching?
Sermon preparation begins with scripture, using the three-year cycle of the lectionary as a guide. Over the course of a year the sermons will reflect portions of the entire Bible--from stories of creation and prophets to stories of Jesus and the beginnings of the church. The sermon weaves one or two scriptures with real life struggles, questions, and contemporary issues. Our drama group sometimes illustrates a biblical theme through a short drama. Several times a year the youth group plans and leads the entire worship service.

Who helps lead worship?
Many people--including men, women, youth, and children--serve in worship leadership. Worship begins with children and youth lighting the candles to remind us that God is present with us. The lay leader highlights announcements, offers the opening prayer, and reads the scriptures. An adult who enjoys children tells a story during the Children's Moment. Deacons prepare and serve communion, and elders offer prayers for communion. Musical members offer their skills through choir, special music, and musical instruments.

Are children allowed to stay during worship?
Yes. We invite all ages to worship together, including infants. We feel that children learn about worship as they participate, but we also offer childcare after the Children's Moment for young children. Some families prefer that children remain with them during worship, while others appreciate having a place for their children to play together, hear a Bible story, and experience God's care through loving adults.

Who can participate in communion?
We have communion every Sunday, remembering that the bread and the juice reflect Christ's presence in our world today. You do not have to be a member of this church or denomination to participate in communion, for we believe that God has provided this gift for all who trust in God.

What about children and communion?
Each family may decide when children are ready to participate. Some wait until children have been baptized, while others include them earlier. If you have a preschool child, for example, you may wish to give your child a piece of your bread, symbolizing that your child's faith is connected to your faith. When serving a young child say, "When you eat this bread, remember that God loves you."

Why do you collect an offering?
The offerings we collect fund our ministry--maintaining our building, purchasing supplies and curriculum, or providing salaries for our staff. A percentage of our offerings support our area ministers and area church camp. Each month we focus on a "loose change offering" for a local, national, or global outreach project, such as BEACON, Call for Help, Habitat for Humanity, and others.