If you are planning to visit us for the first time, here are a few things you might want to know about our Sunday meetings.
Our services are what many people would consider traditional in style. We actively participate together, following an order of service, in responsive readings, prayers, scripture readings, congregational hymns and other songs from various places and times. Our choir shares special musical offerings with us during the 11:00 service, about three times a month. The 8:30 service is a small, intimate gathering, and the 11:00 service is more full (come a little early to ensure desirable seating).
Worship leading, scripture reading, prayer and preaching are shared by men and women gifted and called to these ministries. Children, youth, and members of the Friendship Class are also included, according to the gifts and abilities of each. Our pastors and Worship Commission plan and oversee our services.
Communion: The Lord's Supper is typically celebrated on the first Sunday of each month. All Christians who are baptized and seeking to follow Jesus are welcome to join us in this symbolic act of worship.
At College Community Church, communion is usually served in one of two ways. Sometimes (usually in the 8:30 service), the congregation rises and forms a procession toward the front of the sanctuary. One at a time, each participant is invited to take a portion of bread from a common plate, then to dip the bread in a common cup, and then to eat. Those who are serving the meal will speak words such as, "The body of Christ given for you. Do this in remembrance of him." You may respond in reverent silence or with the words "Amen" or "Thanks be to God." If you would prefer to refrain from receiving the elements, you are invited to approach the front of the sanctuary, along with the rest of the congregation, to receive a spoken blessing instead (indicate that you would prefer a spoken blessing by folding your arms over your chest). You may also choose to remain seated during this portion of the service.
Other times (usually in the 11:00 service), the congregation remains seated while trays of bread are passed from person to person through the rows. Participants take an individual portion, and everyone holds the bread until the whole congregation is directed to eat together. Then, trays containing small cups of juice are passed. Participants remove one cup from the tray, drink the juice, and return the cup to its place in the tray. If you would prefer to refrain, simply pass the tray to the next person.
Tithes and Offerings: Giving a portion of our income as an act of gratitude and obedience to God is an ancient biblical practice. At College Community Church we receive an offering each Sunday as a confession of our commitment to giving all that we have, and all that we are to God. On Communion Sundays, there is a second offering for the Deacons' Fund, used for emergency needs within the congregation and community. Some of our offerings are of money, others are of time, service, gifts and talents. There is no expectation or obligation for guests to contribute money to our offering. Your presence with us is the gift you bring.
Prayer: Prayers are offered throughout the service. Toward the end of our service a designated prayer time includes congregational sharing of personal prayer requests and praise items. A brief prayer is spoken by the worship leader for each item shared. This portion of the service is followed by a pastoral prayer for the world.
Introducing Guests: We like to meet our visitors. You will be invited to stand and introduce yourself with your name and a brief comment about how you came to worship with us. If you would prefer, please introduce yourself to someone near you so that we can welcome you personally. We also invite you also to sign our guest book in the foyer.
Children: Young people are encouraged to participate in worship services. During the 8:30 service, children (ages 4 yrs.--2nd grade) join the congregation for the first third of the service and are then sent, with a special blessing, to enjoy their own Children's Church service. During both services, nursery care is available for children up to age three.
Christian Education: From 9:45 to 10:30 children and youth join with peers and adult leaders for Sunday School. Adults gather in the sanctuary for a variety of presentations from personal testimonies, to guest missionary reports, to topical discussions and Bible studies. Periodically, participants are provided with 2 or 3 alternatives to choose from.
Coffee Service: Everyone is invited to enjoy coffee and tea between services, from 9:30 to 9:45 and 10:30 to 11:00, in the courtyard.
Fellowship Meals: We share meals together about once a month, often in conjunction with communion Sundays. Sometimes lunch is served after the 11:00 service, other times we enjoy brunch during the education hour (see our announcements page for any upcoming events). These meals are an opportunity to build relationships through fun and food. Sometimes the meals serve to raise additional funds (for example, our Annual Chili Cook-Off to raise money for our high school group). Meals are paid for by donations from the congregation, and it is our pleasure to host visitors as our guests, with no obligation. Please join us!
Special Events: A variety of other special events are held on Sundays, after regular services. See the announcements for more information.
Assistance: If you need assistance in any way please ask one of our ushers.