What is Worship Like?
Church of Christ, McAlester, Oklahoma
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When we say Welcome!, we really do want you to feel comfortable when you visit us. Let us tell you what you can generally expect during
worship when you visit.
What Can You Expect?
Unless worship has already begun, you will probably be greeted in the foyer when you enter. Worship occurs in a large fan-shaped room
we refer to as the “auditorium.” This room is entered from the foyer through a double set of double doors. There is a large open fellowship
area at the back of the auditorium, so you have a few moments to orient yourself. You should have no trouble finding a place to sit. There
are no reserved seats, so feel free to sit anywhere. Early in the service, the congregation spends a few moments in "welcome and
greeting." During this time many people are moving about the auditorium to meet and greet others.
One of the unique things about many Restoration churches, including ours, is that the music is ‘a cappella’, that is, we sing without the use
of musical instruments. We love the beauty and joy of worshipping God from our hearts with our voices blending in rapturous harmony. We
believe you will find the singing meaningful and uplifting, with everyone being invited to participate.
The worship usually includes congregational Scripture readings, spoken prayers, and a lesson from God’s Word. We believe in the power
of prayer and God’s Word, so these aspects will take up a considerable amount of our worship time. The lesson is normally 25-30 minutes
long. An attended nursery is available during worship; a children's Bible hour is offered during the sermon. We believe you find the sermon
refreshingly Bible-centered and applicable to your life.
Our worship time will include the Lord’s Supper. During this time, trays of unleavened bread (symbolizing the body of Jesus) and small cups
of grape juice (symbolizing the blood of Jesus) will be passed throughout the auditorium. You may choose whether or not to participate in
this celebration and remembrance of what Jesus did for us on the cross. You are welcome to share this memorial feast and supper of
celebration with us, or you may simply pass the trays to the next person.
The worship will also include an opportunity to give a financial offering to the work of the Lord. Collection plates will be passed to collect a
weekly offering. These offering are free-will offerings, and each person gives as he or she determines. As our guest, you are not expected to
make a donation, but may participate if you wish.
At the close of the sermon, the minister will “offer an invitation.” This provides an opportunity and encouragement for those who wish to
‘respond’ to come to the front of the auditorium while the congregation sings. People respond with special prayer requests, for strength in
times of special difficulties, to commit and recommit themselves to the Lord. At this time, if you need help spiritually in any way, please
come forward.
What is Expected of You?
We hope that you will participate in the worship service. But don’t feel obligated. You may just observe if that is your choice.
Also, if you would, when you visit, fill out a guest card and make us aware of your visit. You may also sign our guest book in the foyer. These
simply provide information so that we can write or call to thank you for your visit.
worship when you visit.
What Can You Expect?
Unless worship has already begun, you will probably be greeted in the foyer when you enter. Worship occurs in a large fan-shaped room
we refer to as the “auditorium.” This room is entered from the foyer through a double set of double doors. There is a large open fellowship
area at the back of the auditorium, so you have a few moments to orient yourself. You should have no trouble finding a place to sit. There
are no reserved seats, so feel free to sit anywhere. Early in the service, the congregation spends a few moments in "welcome and
greeting." During this time many people are moving about the auditorium to meet and greet others.
One of the unique things about many Restoration churches, including ours, is that the music is ‘a cappella’, that is, we sing without the use
of musical instruments. We love the beauty and joy of worshipping God from our hearts with our voices blending in rapturous harmony. We
believe you will find the singing meaningful and uplifting, with everyone being invited to participate.
The worship usually includes congregational Scripture readings, spoken prayers, and a lesson from God’s Word. We believe in the power
of prayer and God’s Word, so these aspects will take up a considerable amount of our worship time. The lesson is normally 25-30 minutes
long. An attended nursery is available during worship; a children's Bible hour is offered during the sermon. We believe you find the sermon
refreshingly Bible-centered and applicable to your life.
Our worship time will include the Lord’s Supper. During this time, trays of unleavened bread (symbolizing the body of Jesus) and small cups
of grape juice (symbolizing the blood of Jesus) will be passed throughout the auditorium. You may choose whether or not to participate in
this celebration and remembrance of what Jesus did for us on the cross. You are welcome to share this memorial feast and supper of
celebration with us, or you may simply pass the trays to the next person.
The worship will also include an opportunity to give a financial offering to the work of the Lord. Collection plates will be passed to collect a
weekly offering. These offering are free-will offerings, and each person gives as he or she determines. As our guest, you are not expected to
make a donation, but may participate if you wish.
At the close of the sermon, the minister will “offer an invitation.” This provides an opportunity and encouragement for those who wish to
‘respond’ to come to the front of the auditorium while the congregation sings. People respond with special prayer requests, for strength in
times of special difficulties, to commit and recommit themselves to the Lord. At this time, if you need help spiritually in any way, please
come forward.
What is Expected of You?
We hope that you will participate in the worship service. But don’t feel obligated. You may just observe if that is your choice.
Also, if you would, when you visit, fill out a guest card and make us aware of your visit. You may also sign our guest book in the foyer. These
simply provide information so that we can write or call to thank you for your visit.