Is everyone welcome?
Absolutely! In our mission statement, we say that the church’s personality is reflective of Christ’s — open, embracing and nurturing. And we mean it! We welcome folks of all ages, nationalities, races and lifestyles. We welcome members of the LGBT+ community. We welcome those who may not be sure of their beliefs. We are a group of seekers, and everyone is welcome to join us as we search for a closer relationship with God.
What should I expect during the worship service?
When you enter our church for morning worship, you are greeted with a warm, open and friendly welcome that prevails throughout your church visit! You will receive a printed bulletin and be instructed to sit wherever you find you will be most comfortable in the sanctuary. If you have children with you, you may be asked if you want them to sit with you in the sanctuary during service or have them take part in the activities of the day in our children’s nursery.
Worship generally opens with “Joys and Concerns” announced by the pastor, followed by hymn, a responsive greeting and a prayer. Then, there is a reading followed by affirmations of faith led by a lay reader and a pastoral prayer. Next is an anthem sung by our choir and led by the choir director, Monte Skelton. This is followed by scripture, the sermon, the offering with ingathering, the doxology and a prayer of dedication. The congregation will sing a final hymn, before receiving the blessing, ending with silent meditation while the organ plays.
We are open and support one another through the sharing of joys and concerns at the beginning of the service. Anyone may share during this time — to ask for prayers for loved ones and friends, or even to share the good news of recovery or an enlightening experience.
Holy Communion is held quarterly beginning in January of each year. All are welcome to participate in this sacramental sharing of “wine” (grape juice) and bread. On special occasions following worship, you may join others in the chapel for fellowship, coffee or other beverages and refreshments. You may meet and talk with the pastor and others to learn more about our church.
What can I expect from the pastor and sermon?
Our pastor has a unique style of delivering the “Sermon of the Day.” He delivers the biblical message in a modern context, often giving personal spiritual inspiration to some members of our church family, but also uplifting everyone present. Members of our congregation often leave the church spiritually uplifted and inspired for days – or at least until they hear next Sunday’s sermon! You soon find yourself looking forward to Sunday’s inspirational message, even wondering what the pastor will talk about during the next service. It does not take long to realize that the songs chosen for the day were not by accident, but were selected because they complement the day’s message! Then, just when you think you have all of this service stuff figured out, you are pleasantly surprised when there is a new lesson for the day, which is absolutely perfect for what you needed that day!
Where is Christ Reformed United Church of Christ located?
Christ Reformed United Church of Christ (CRC-UCC) is located at 117 East Burke Street in Martinsburg, West Virginia.
Where can I park?
There are numerous areas where parking is convenient to our church. Parking includes:
- Some street metered parking along Burke Street in the front of the church;
- a few parking spaces in the back of the church;
- Some handicap parking spaces on the east side of our church (i.e., to the right side when facing the church); and
- A parking lot on the west side (i.e., left side when facing the church); and a large parking lot across from the front of the church accessible off Burke Street.
Note: No charge on Sundays for metered parking.
Is Christ Reformed Church UCC accessible to those who are physically challenged?
There is handicapped parking in the parking lot located near the back right side of our church when facing the front of the church from Burke Street. Our sanctuary, chapel and restrooms are located on the ground floor, all of which are accessible to those physically challenged. Restrooms are wheelchair accessible. We encourage everyone to choose a seat in the sanctuary where they feel most comfortable, and there are a number of seating locations that can accommodate those who are physically challenged. When you visit our church, our greeters are happy to assist those with special needs find a seating location in which they will be the most comfortable.
What should I wear?
Come as you are and be comfortable.
Will I be expected to give a donation during the offering in the worship service?
No. Our members openly give what they can to the church through their financial gifts, volunteering and service to others as they are comfortable. Visitors may also support the church with an offering. We are happy to share your spiritual needs through our worship, praise and programs.
Will I be introduced during worship?
No. You will get a warm welcome when you visit our church, but you will not experience any pressures. Our members will freely answer your questions, encourage and hope for a returned visit, and kindly respect your decision to join or not join our church. We do, however, ask you to register in our guest book so that we may follow up with you after worship.
Is there a nursery and childcare provided?
Yes. Child care services are available during the hours of worship. Children of all ages are welcome in the sanctuary.