| 1. |
What is the right denomination for me?
There are many denominations to choose from such as Baptist, Non-Denominational, Methodist, Pentecostal or Catholic.
Go to FAQ Topics to learn more about these and other denominations. |
| 2. |
What are my beliefs?
Understanding your beliefs and finding a church with the right doctrinal beliefs is key before joining.
Make sure you study and understand a church's doctrine or statement of faith and that the church you
are visiting teaches the Bible in a manner that you spiritually can relate to. |
| 3. |
What type of service do I prefer?
Determine if you prefer a more informal type of worship service such as contemporary and blended
or a more traditional worship service with more structured liturgy.
Worship is the way we express our love and appreciation to God. It's important that you find a style
that allows you to most freely express your worship to God. Music style is also important.
Some churches have contemporary music, some have traditional. Some sing hymns
while others sing choruses. Some have bands while others have orchestras and choirs.
Some sing gospel, rock or even hard rock, etc. Determine what music style is right for you. |
| 4. |
Do I want to join a small or large church?
Small churches may provide a more intimate setting that a large church may not be able to cultivate as effectively.
However, a small church may not be able to offer the array of ministries and programs you are seeking.
Larger churches may meet your expectations but could require more effort to get involved.
Determine what types of ministries and programs you can connect to with other believers.
Some churches provide a simple approach while others offer a more elaborate system of classes
and programs to meet your needs. Determine what size church is right for you. |
| 5. |
What type of attire should I wear in church?
Some churches are more informal where tee-shirts, jeans and even shorts are appropriate.
In others a suit and tie or dress are more appropriate. At some churches any type of attire is appropriate.
Ask yourself what is right for you - dressy, casual or both. |
| 6. |
Visit church web sites
One of the best ways to assess a church before visiting is to look at church web sites. Most churches
provide information such as church history, doctrinal beliefs, a statement of faith, worship times, plus
church programs and outreaches offered. |
| 7. |
Call before visiting
It is important to make a list of specific questions you want to ask before visiting a church.
Take a few minutes each week to do this and it will save you a lot of time and effort.
Prioritize what is most important to you - e.g., Worship style, youth programs, singles or couples programs, etc.
Ask for an informaton packet when you call. |
| 8. |
Make Check List
Before you visit a church make a check list of the most important characteristics about the church you hope to find.
Rate the church based on your check list after your visit. Keeping notes is quite helpful in making your determination
particularly if you are visiting numerous churches. Use your notes as a reference in narrowing your search. |
| 9. |
Visiting a church
After you have visited a church at least three times ask yourself these questions:
Is this a church I can connect with?
Does it meet my spiritual and biblical beliefs?
Does the worship service and ministry program meet my expectations and afford
me the opportunity to get involved and pray with other believers?
Are the staff
and congregation warm and friendly to me? And does the church effectively reach out
to its community locally and globally?
These are just some of the key questions you should
ask yourself before making a decision to join a church. |
| 10. |
Tips
A. If you don't know where to begin your church search, ask your friends, co-workers or people
you respect and ask where they go to church.
B. Always visit a church at least three times before making a final decision.
C. Never try to change a church because they are usually set in their mission.
D. There are so many different churches to choose from. Narrow the search to find
the right church for you. |
