What can you expect with a visit to Weber Road?

We hold the Bible to be God's word, the only source of our faith and practice. Our objective is to "restore" the New Testament church in our time. We can find in the Bible what the church was like in the beginning and we seek to follow God’s Word as Christians in the New Testament times did. We believe this is a worthy and reverent goal. When you come to visit us, you may be interested to know what our worship assembly is like. We'll walk you through a typical worship assembly.

The Setting

You will find our church facility simple and functional. You will be made very welcome, and may feel free to sit where and with whomever you please. Some will be “dressed up” for the occasion while others will be more casual in their attire. All are welcomed and are seen as our honored guests. Be sure and let us know if you need help finding the nursery, classes, etc.

Our Singing

How is this for a refreshing change? No choirs, organs or bands; just the unmatched melody of the human voice. Our music, you see is a capella, that is, voices without accompaniment of instruments. Our singing is congregational, meaning that everyone is encouraged to participate fully as we worship the Lord. There are hymnals in the pews and we use a screen with words and music notes to our worship songs. Our music is a conviction with us, not merely a preference. We interpret the New Testament verse "making melody with your heart to the Lord," (Ephesians 5.19), to be a mandate from God to use our voices in singing praises to His Name. Adding instruments may detract from that simple musical expression. As our early brethren did in the first century church, we also do in our singing. We believe you will find this to be an exhilarating and uplifting experience.

Prayer

There will he several prayers during the assembly, including prayers for specific needs and requests (I Timothy 1.1,2).

Preaching

You will notice the absence of titles such as Pastor or Reverend. The preacher of the gospel message is simply called by his given name. You will also notice the absence of special clothing or robes to set the preacher apart or anyone else for that matter. The reason is that the scriptures teach the priesthood of all believers (1 Peter 2:5,9); there is no "clergy/laity" distinction in the New Testament. The sermon will likely be from 25 to 30 minutes. We hope you will find it refreshingly to hear Bible-centered preaching. (2 Timothy 4.1-5).

The Invitation

At the close of the sermon an invitation will he offered, allowing those who wish to do so an expedient opportunity to respond to the message preached. Those who respond do so by moving to the front of the auditorium as the congregation sings a hymn. Please don’t feel ill-at-ease during the invitation. You will not be singled out or embarrassed in any way. There may be several who respond, maybe none. The minister waits in the front to receive and speak to anyone who comes forward. Some may respond to be baptized; some to confess sins and request prayers for strength; some to ask for prayers for a specific need; some to request prayers for victories the Lord has granted. Others who have already obeyed the Gospel, may come to be identified with the Weber Road congregation as a member. The preacher or an elder of the church will lead a prayer for those who respond to the invitation. If one comes to obey the Gospel, they may do so at the close of the worship assembly or at any time they choose. The baptism will be by immersion (Colossians 2:12) and will be for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38).

The Lord’s Supper

Churches of Christ observe this memorial every Lord's Day. Whether it is during Sunday morning or Sunday evening worship, the Lord’s Supper is offered to all who wish to observe it. Once again, the reason for this weekly practice is a desire to follow New Testament teaching. The first century church celebrated this observance on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7). History also testifies that in early centuries the Lord's Supper was an every-Sunday commemoration. It is intended for Christians, but we do NOT practice “closed communion” where some are prohibited from partaking of it. Eblems (unleavened bread & grape juice) are available for those who would like to observe the Lord’s Supper. Please pick up emblems on the tables at the back of the auditorium (AM worship) or at the back of the fellowship hall (PM worship). This is done in keeping with New Testament teaching, reminding us of the body and blood of the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 11:23-25). Please don't be embarrassed if you choose not to participate.

Contribution

In keeping with the New Testament, we give as we have prospered on the first day of every week (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). As our guest, you are not expected to contribute, but you are welcomed if you do so. There are two ways to give. First, collection baskets are passed through the auditorium after the Lord’s Supper is observed. Second, online giving is available by going to the church website, clicking the “online giving” button and then following the instructions. Contributions may also be mailed to the church office.

What Will Be Expected of You?

Nothing, except to be able to worship our God in a wonderful and uplifting way! You are welcome to participate or merely observe. One thing we would welcome is your questions - on any subject pertaining to our worship and practice. You may be asked to fill out a visitor's card. This simply provides information, allowing the church to follow up by thanking you for your visit. Supply the information if you are comfortable doing so, but feel free to decline if you prefer.

The People

We're a diverse group, coming from varied backgrounds, and at different stages of knowledge and spiritual growth. We do have a mutual commitment however: to practice the truth found in Scripture. You see, our bond is not an illusion of perfection, but rather a recognition that we are sinners in need of the cleansing blood of Jesus (Romans 6.6-9).

You are welcome to attend any of our assemblies and activities, and are encouraged to ask questions if you have them. If you would like to learn a little more about Jesus, God's grace, the power of the Spirit, and even the workings of the Weber Road Church of Christ, you are most welcome to attend and to ask whatever questions you may have about us or about your faith.