Why We Worship
As we are called by God (Psalm 100),
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we gather on the Lord’s Day (Acts 20:7)
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to read (1 Timothy 4:13), sing (Colossians 3:16),
and hear (Romans 10:14-17) God’s word, -
to pray (Philippians 4:6) and give offerings (1 Corinthians 16:1-2),
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and to practice the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper (Acts 2:38-39; 1 Corinthians 11:23-24)
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together in fellowship (Matthew 18:20) as God’s covenant people
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under God’s ordained and instructed structure (1 Corinthians 14:40).
Created to worship.
Called to worship.
Commanded to worship.
How We Worship
Liturgy of our Gatherings
Our gathering is regulated by Scripture. This protects:
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the unity of the church as we submit our preferences to Scripture,
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the multi-cultural and multi-generational ministry of the church as we submit cultural trends and trappings to Scripture,
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the discipleship of the church as we submit the innovations and imaginations of men to Scripture,
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the freedom and consciences of church members as we encourage participation in only what is taught in Scripture,
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the gospel preaching of the church as we acknowledge the Scripture as preeminent authority for the church's worship.
Scriptures in Worship
Sitting together under God's Word
We do not accept the premises that Sunday gatherings are spectator events or that ministry is reserved for paid staff. Members are expected and encouraged to participate in the Sunday gathering through congregational singing, agreeing in prayer, and active listening.
We publish an Immersive Discipleship Guide with articles, devotionals, art, and resources designed to deepen and enrich personal study of the Scriptures we look at together on Sundays.
We encourage households to participate in a Common Rhythm of short daily devotions designed to prepare each of us to gather on Sundays with our church family. Information about upcoming scriptures and songs is sent out in the weekly Prepare for Sunday email and printed in our weekly bulletin.
Music in Worship
Singing God's Praise
Scripture not only permits singing; it commands it. This may feel unusual in a culture where singing is often reserved for professionals or private enjoyment, but in the church it is fundamentally congregational. We do not gather as an audience but as participants.
Each voice matters—not because of musical excellence, but because of spiritual obedience and mutual encouragement.
Families in Worship
Reaching and raising the next generation of disciples
We believe that parents are the primary disciplers of their children. Active engagement with the church is an essential part of discipleship, including regular participation as a family in the worship gathering.
Individuals of all ages and stages are welcome in our Sunday morning gatherings. We celebrate the noises and voices of all and understand that some need to get up and move around during the service as they are learning to be active participants. Adaptive materials are available to support participation.
On first and fifth Sundays the family participates together in all elements of the family worship gathering. We have extended seasons of Family Worship during summer and Christmas holidays.
On second, third, and fourth Sundays, our staffed Nursery (0-2) is open and Kids and Youth Discipleship is available during the sermon for children 14 and under as another learning environment for targeted instruction on the sermon text and foundation truths of the faith.
Embodiment in Worship
Belonging to One Another
God created human beings with body and soul, and called his creation good. Because God created us as whole people—body, mind, and soul—discipleship takes place in embodied community as we meet, sing, pray, discuss, and live together.
While we thank God for the resources available to us through technology, we strive to thoughtfully and consciously choose embodied experiences over virtual ones. We know that God has given each of us for the encouragement and exhortation of our brothers and sisters in the body of Christ.
