We extend to you our personal invitation to visit us at the Parkview Church of Christ.

And we want you to feel comfortable.  But we know an unfamiliar place can be intimidating.  So, let me tell you what you can expect when you come to worship God with us.

BACKGROUND

A brief description of our background may help you understand us.

We are a people of "restoration" spirit.  Long ago we asked questions like, "Why not go back beyond denominationalism to the simplicity and purity of the 1st century church?  Why not take the Bible only as the rule of faith and practice and throw away human creeds?  We are looking to "restore" the New Testament church in our time-to determine from the Bible what the church was like in the beginning, and then to recover in our day and time the essence of the original church. 

We are saying that we do not have the right to ask for people's allegiance to a human organization-but only the right to call upon people to follow God's blueprint (the Bible).

Now, let us walk you through a typical worship service, with some variations from time to time.

THE SETTING

Some churches of Christ meet in homes or rented facilities.  However, for the sake of convenience we have erected a church building.  The auditorium Has rows of pews for those attending.   There are no reserved seats, so feel free to sit any where you choose.

SINGING

In the pews, there will be a hymnbook for your use.  When the song leader announces a number, you can turn to that number in the hymnbook to find the words and music.

One of the unique things about the churches of Christ-and something you may find unusual-is that the music is  "A Cappella."  That is, we sing without the accompaniment of musical instruments.

The reason for this is, since we are seeking to worship according to the New Testament pattern, and the New Testament leaves instrumental music out, we believe it best and safe to also leave it out. (1 Corinthians 14:15; Ephesians 5:18,19; Colossians 3:16; Hebrews 2:12)

We think you will find the singing meaningful and enjoyable, with everyone being invited to participate.

PRAYERS

There will be several prayers during the service.  And there may be prayers for specific needs and requests.

PREACHING

You will notice that the preacher does not have a title.  He won't be referred to as "Pastor" or "Reverend."  He will probably be referred to as brother, or, possibly, just called by his first name.

He won't be wearing any ecclesiastical clothing which sets him apart.  The reason for this is our belief in the priesthood of all believers.  That all are equal. (Matthew 23:8-12; Galatians 3:26-28; 1 Peter 2:5,9)

The sermon will likely be from 25 to 30 minutes.  We think you will find it refreshingly Bible-centered.

INVITATION

At the close of the sermon, the preacher will "extend an invitation."   This is simply an opportune time to invite anyone who is moved to do so, to make a commitment or request prayer support.  He will encourage those who wish to "respond" to come to the front of the auditorium while the congregation sings a hymn.

Do not feel ill-at-ease during this invitation.  You will not be singled out in any way. There may be several who respond, or none.

Some may respond for baptism.  Some to confess sins.  Some to ask for prayer for a specific need.

If anyone responds for baptism, you will witness the baptism during this service.   The baptism will be by immersion.  (Acts 8:35-39; Romans 6:3,4; Colossians 2:12).  And it will be for the remission of sins. (Acts 2:38,39).

LORD'S SUPPER

If you visit on Sunday morning, the Lord's Supper will be included in the worship proceedings-because churches of Christ observe this memorial every first day of the week (every Sunday).  Again, the reason for this is our desire to follow New Testament teaching.  The first century church celebrated this observance on the first day of the week.  (Acts 20:7)

If you have been baptized into Christ (Christian), you will partake in this memorial.   Plates containing pieces of unleavened bread will be passed throughout the congregation.  Jesus said that this was his body.  (1 Corinthians 11:23-25).  Each participating Christian will break off a piece of the bread and eat it.

Next, trays filled with small cups containing "the fruit of the vine" (grape juice) will be distributed.  Jesus said that this was his blood.   (1 Corinthians 11:23-25).  Each participating Christian will drink the contents of one of the cups.

OFFERING

Also, if you visit on Sunday morning, containers will be passed to collect the weekly financial offering.  (1 Corinthians 16:1,2).

As our guest, you are not expected to make a donation.  Feel perfectly comfortable in just passing the collection plate on down the row.

WHAT WILL BE EXPECTED OF YOU?

Nothing at all!  Just observe if that is your choice.

We do ask that all guest's fill out a Visitors Card.  This simply provides information so the church can write to thank you for your visit.  Supply the information only if you feel comfortable doing so.

THE PEOPLE

What kind of people can you expect to find?  Pretty much the entire spectrum, as in any group.  We are a diverse group, coming from a variety of backgrounds, and at different stages of knowledge and spiritual growth.

We do not claim to be perfect, we have many shortcomings.  We have not yet arrived-we are still on the journey.

But, you see, we were not brought together by any illusion of our perfection or righteousness.  We were brought together by our recognition that we are sinners in need of the cleansing blood of Jesus. (Mark 2:17; Romans 5:6-9; Ephesians 1:7; 1 John 1:7)

That is the reason we can worship together, stick together, and with God's help, accomplish some things that make a difference.

You won't have to look very far to find our personal failures.  But, the bottom line is, you will find people who love Jesus and love God's Word, the Bible.

We urge you to investigate for yourself.

" A Friendly Welcome Awaits You "