Visitor Vitals

What time do the services start?

On Sunday morning we start our age-specific Sunday School classes at 9:30, and we begin our worship service at 10:30. We also meet at different times throughout the week for small group prayer and discussion, Bible studies and other fellowship events.

How do I get to First Christian Church?

First Christian is in the Oak Park Subdivision, on Second Ave. (a secondary North/South artery), 2 blocks North of Memorial Hospital.

Map to First Christian Church

View Larger Map

What is the preaching like?

In all areas of our ministries, including the sermon time, you will always hear of God’s unconditional and unchanging love for all people. This is nowhere more powerfully demonstrated than in Him giving His only son, Jesus, to save us from our sins. Just as He loves us beyond our full comprehension, He also wants us to love each other; our neighbor across the room and our neighbor on the other side of the world – unconditionally. This is what we preach.

You will find that the preaching here will be presented in a loving, passionate, clear and reasonable manner. It is our sincere hope that the preaching will bring you closer to the God and Savior who loves you beyond your deepest understanding of love

We center every worship service with Holy Communion, or The Lord’s Supper, as some refer. Everyone who is a follower of Jesus is invited to the Lord’s Table. In our tradition we use bread and grape juice and pass the emblems to each other in acts of service. And at the close of every service is a time of commitment when all will be asked to re-examine their individual lives in light of what God may be calling them to be or do.

What is the music like?

Worship music style is really a hot topic in many churches these days. God has moved people to write inspirational music in numerous styles throughout the ages. We find largely that the “correct” style is usually a matter of personal taste, and we have used various styles in our services at First Christian. Today in our Sunday worship services we praise God with what might be classified a blend of traditional and contemporary styles of music. In the Sunday service you will hear and sing the great hymns of the church, both new and old, accompanied by pipe organ or piano as well as guitars and drums.

Are you affiliated with any denomination?

First Christian Church is a member of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) denomination and participates in the Great River Region of congregations.  The Bible is the primary sourcebook of our faith. We seek to make the Bible relevant to the issues of today. With the support and guidance of the church, our members enjoy both the freedom and responsibility of making their own decisions in regard to interpreting the Bible and practicing their faith.

You will find First Christian Church to be a loving church where freedom in Christ is practiced. But, at the same time, you can rest in knowing that we are also a church that holds unswervingly to God’s precious Word in order to provide a solid anchor for your family during these changing times.

Where will my children go?

The 9:30 Sunday School time has classes for all age groups. Your children will have the opportunity to participate in fun-filled, hands-on classes where God’s truths are taught. For the very young, we have a cozy and secure nursery.

During the morning worship service, the children will be asked to come forward to hear a children’s sermon by Miss Bobbie, and then they may go off down the hall to Children’s Church for the remainder of the worship service.

All of our children’s activities are attended to by children’s ministry members. Each child will be lavished with love and attention in a safe environment.

Do I have to dress up?

No. There is no need to dress up in fancy clothes. Early Christians were called to simply dress modestly and decently. You will find many modes of dress at First Christian, from blue jeans and sport shirts to suits or sport coats and ties. Dress in what is comfortable for you and your family. We want you to feel at home as we journey to becoming disciples of Jesus together.

Will I have to stand up and be recognized during a visit?

Some churches will ask visitors to stand and be recognized during a worship service. The people at First Christian are genuinely interested in getting to know you and have you know us, but we are also aware that many people do not like to be “in the spotlight.” So, we will not embarrass you with public introductions. Some of our people may greet and welcome you informally, but we will generally let you get acquainted with us at your own pace.
If you are a first time guest, we have a special gift for you to take home as our way of thanking you for choosing to worship God with us.

I have other questions.

Please feel free to call our church offices at 337-478-3034 or send us an email () if you have other unanswered questions.  We would also be glad to