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Q: What does the "Free"
part of Evangelical Free Church mean?
- As the word has developed in our use it has come to mean several
different things. Historically the word indicated that the church
was no longer under the rule and authority of the state. The Evangelical
Free Church of America has roots in Scandinavian countries where
the governments controlled the church. Free churches broke from
that situation and hence the word "Free" in the name. As time has
passed the word "Free" has been used to emphasize the freedom of
each congregation to rule itself. There is no hierarchy that controls
a church in the Evangelical Free Church of America. Also, the word
"Free" has been helpful in communicating our commitment to major
on the majors of Christian life and service, and to minor on the
minors, as Scripture would indicate.
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Q:
What is the style of Worship at Evangelical Free Church?
- Our services at 8:00am (traditional) and 10:45am (contemporary)
each Sunday morning create a sacred space that echoes the mysteriousness
and awe of God. It is our intention to bring glory to Him through
singing, the playing of instruments, reading His word, and serving
others, as well as using drama and audio visual elements. Our worship
complements the day's message from God's Word and invariably elevates
the Gospel of Jesus Christ and God’s plan for redemption of
His people.
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Q:
I have Children - what do you have for my children?
- Nursery: We have an adult-staffed nursery that welcomes babies
and toddlers. As a parent you can be assured that your little one
is well cared for in a nursery that is safe.
- Sunday School: We offer both preschool and elementary-age Sunday
School classes, which are age appropriate and biblically relevant.
- Children's Church (Praise Factory): This exciting program is
for preschool through 5th grade.
- AWANA Club: Every Wednesday night during the school year, boys
and girls (age 3 through 5th grade) enjoy great music by their own
His Kids praise band, games and solid Biblical teaching that seeks
to reach children that don't normally come to church. Scripture
memory is an important part of AWANA.
- Events: We offer numerous events throughout the year that bring
children together in a safe and fun environment.
- If you have any further questions or need more information, please
contact our church office (445-7206)
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Q:
I have teenagers - what do you have for teens?
- There are many ways for teens to get plugged into our church.
The first is to be a part of our student service that is held from
9:15 to 10:30 on Sunday mornings in our chapel. We also have a Wednesday
evening gathering from 6:30 to 8:00. During the week we have various
small groups, Bible studies, and casual get-togethers. Finally,
we have a calendar of events, which lists our various activities,
outreaches, and missions trips. For more information contact Josh
Zeichik, Youth Director, at the church office 445-7206.
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Q:
How do I meet more people?
- We have ways for you to meet more people. The first place to
start is the “small church.” The small church is where relationships
begin. We have several of these groups that you can visit. There
is a small church brochure on our visitor table. Call Ed Phillips
at the church office (445-7206) and he can help you pick a couple
small churches to try.
- Second, growth groups meet on a regular basis and we have openings
for you. In growth groups, relationships are formed in smaller,
more intimate settings. We publish a booklet with information about
growth groups. Call Ed Phillips at the church office and he can
provide help in selecting a growth group. We’re convinced that the
growth group is a key component to everyone's spiritual development.
- Church-wide events are other ways to meet people. We have several
of these every year, and they are designed for everyone. These include
an Easter Continental breakfast, a Big Neighborhood Picnic in June,
Fall Kickoff Picnic in Setpember, and a Christmas Party. In addition,
our small churches have regular fun events.
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Q:
What do you have for women?
- Women's Ministries has many opportunities for you. There are
women's Bible studies on Thursday mornings, with childcare provided.
There is an array of special events for women throughout the year.
You can pick up a book in the foyer describing all the happenings.
If you would like to contact the leader of Women's Ministries with
questions, call Kathy Glabe at 443-4450.
- Other areas of interest for women may be the quilters group that
meets on Tuesday from noon to 3:00pm. For information about this
opportunity call Brenda Winkelmeyer 443-5556.
- There is an opportunity for those interested in crafts and community
involvement—through Piecemakers. They make crafts to raise money
for worth causes and they roll bandages for overseas hospitals.
For more information about Piecemakers contact Alice Robinson through
the church office 445-7206.
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Q:
Is there a dress code or expectation?
- No dress code is expected or required. You're welcome as you
are.
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Q:
Do we have services on Wednesdays and/or Sunday nights?
- Because of our commitment to growth groups we leave most nights
free so groups can meet together. On occasion we may have Wednesday
night studies or special events. Some growth groups enjoy meeting
on Sunday nights. On a regular schedule we do have business meetings
for the church on Sunday nights four times a year, and on occasion
we have special prayer meetings.
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Q:
What do you have for Men?
- We offer opportunities for men through our Men's Ministries.
We meet for breakfast, challenge, Bible study, service, and prayer
on the 3rd Saturday of each month. Also, we have various events
for men to get involved in. If you would like to know more about
Men's Ministries, contact Ed
Phillips at the church office (445-7206), or contact Mike
Keller.
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Q:
How does Evangelical Free Church support itself financially?
- Evangelical Free Church believes that Christ is Lord over all
things. We do not believe that there is a religious part of life
separate from other parts of our lives. We believe that trusting
Christ for salvation makes him the owner of all that we are and
all that we have (I Corinthians 6:20). Therefore, our money, time,
and energy are used throughout our lives as offerings to God. Financial
giving to the church is part of our commitment to follow Christ.
The tithe (an Old Testament term meaning 10%) is not rigidly held,
but is a general guide. Many Christians give much more than a tithe
and others in times of difficulty may not give a tithe. The belief
of our church is that there is spiritual benefit to giving faithfully.
First, it loosens our grip on material things. Second, it involves
us in the expansion of the kingdom of God right now. And third,
it helps us focus on the future glory of Christ and his kingdom.
So as our church’s members faithfully give, we depend on God using
His people to supply the needs of the church.
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Q:
Why should I consider becoming a member of Evangelical Free Church?s
- It is true that there is no mandate in Scripture to join a local
church. But there are some good reasons for doing so. First, it
is a way to lock arms together around a vision that we feel God
has called us to as a church. It provides momentum and togetherness
as we seek to fulfill God's will for us. Second, it deepens our
relationship with one another. Throughout the Bible God made covenants
with his people and these were commitments of faithfulness and love
that strengthened the relationship between God and his people. When
we join a church we make a commitment to one another. Third, it
validates the direction and purpose that God has given us. When
people see the vision as important and worthy and they join with
us, we’re encouraged about the directions in which God is leading
us. For information about joining our church, contact our church
office at 445-7206.
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