Four Services, Three Styles

Frequently Asked Questions

With our second “pilot” of four services this Sunday, March 7, the answers to some of the “frequently asked questions” are below.

Why is it called a “pilot” Sunday?

A “pilot” is “an experimental or trial undertaking prior to full-scale operation or use.”  So, we are trying out the four-service, three-style schedule to see how it works, what we learn, and what the potential might be.

 

How many “pilot” Sundays will we have?

Four.  The first was January 24.  The remaining three are scheduled for March 7, April 18, and May 23.

 

When will we begin to do this schedule every Sunday?

Assuming the Lord’s favor, we plan to offer four services and three styles every Sunday beginning in the fall of 2010.

 

Will the sermon be the same in each service?

Yes.  The principal difference in the services will be in the musical style:  more traditional at 8:30, what we do now at 9:45 and 11:10, and more contemporary at 6:30 p.m.  But, the preacher and the message will be the same in all four services.

 

How can I help make this first “pilot” Sunday a success?

(1)              Pray.  Ask the Father to “favor” this effort and “establish the work of our hands” (Psalm 90:17, ESV).

(2)  Be on time.  With a three service schedule on Sunday morning, it will be important for us to start each service on time.  Don’t miss the first note of music or the first word spoken!

(3)  Sit front and center.  The psycho-spatial dynamics are important to the vitality of each service.  So, please fill the worship rooms in each service from front to back.  Just sit where you typically would if your child or grandchild was singing in a Christmas program. J

(4)  Be a “worshiper,” not a “watcher.” Even as we explore new styles of music for worship, don’t just come to observe.  Please come with a wholehearted desire to worship the Father “in spirit and truth” (John 4:23-24).  Sing joyfully.  Pray earnestly.  Receive the Word eagerly.  Respond obediently.  God expects and deserves worship with heart, soul, mind, and strength!  

 

(5)  Welcome newcomers.  Though our full publicity to our community about these services will not happen until the fall, we will likely have more guests here this Sunday than usual.  Please be sure to offer a warm, hospitable welcome to all!

 

Our willingness to try “four services, three styles” reflects the mindset of the Apostle Paul, who wrote:  “I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some.  I do it for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings” (1 Corinthians 9:22-23, ESV). I am confident that the best is yet to come!

Your Pastor and Friend,