What Can You Expect?
- We do not have a dress code. Some people dress up, some come casual. Whatever makes you comfortable.
- Sit anywhere you like, there are no assigned seats.
- At no time will you be singled out as a visitor. We do make every attempt to get to know our visitors but this will be done individually so as to not embarrass anyone unintentionally.
- The Watertown Church is far from perfect. We really do think of ourselves in terms of family. We have struggles just like everyone else; the only difference is that we depend on Christ and each other in the midst of it, realizing that Jesus makes us perfect in the eyes of God.
Let us walk you through a worship service:
Singing
One of the unique things about Church of Christ, and something you may find a bit unusual at first, is that the music is “a cappella”. That is we sing without the accompaniment of musical instruments. The music that we make is with our voices (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16).
This is a conviction with us, not just a preference. We are seeking to worship according to the New Testament as set forth in the Bible. Since the New Testament leaves out instrumental music, we believe it is correct for us to do so also. As a result, our singing becomes more meaningful and everyone is invited to participate. We believe you’ll enjoy the blending of voices and the harmony as we lift our hearts to God.
Prayers
There will be several prayers during the service. There may be prayers for specific needs and requests. In each of these prayers, the entire congregation will be led by one of the men within our membership.
Lord’s Supper
If you visit on a Sunday morning or evening, the Lord’s supper will be included in the worship proceedings because Churches of Christ celebrate this memorial every first day of the week.
The reason for this is our desire to follow New Testament teaching. The first century church celebrated this observance on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7). We believe this is the best time to take out of our busy lives in order to remember our Savior and what He did for us.
During this time, plates containing pieces of unleavened bread will be passed throughout the congregation. The bread symbolizes the body of Jesus (I Corinthians 11:23-25). Each Christian will take a piece of unleavened bread. Next, trays filled with small cups will be distributed. The cups will contain “fruit of the vine”, which symbolize the blood of Jesus (I Corinthians 11:23-25). Any Christian is welcomed to participate, but if you don’t participate, there is no need to be embarrassed.
Offering
Also, if you visit on a Sunday morning there will be a time for plates to be passed around to collect a weekly contribution our members have pledged to give in order to continue works that require money and to help pay for special ministry needs (I Corinthians 16: 1-2).
As our guest you are not under any obligation to make a contribution.
Preaching
At some point during the worship, our preacher will deliver an inspiring message from the Word of God. This is a special time when a relevant message will be given to all those who hear which will equip, convict, and encourage them. These are truly life changing moments!
Invitation
At the close of each sermon, the preacher will extend an invitation.” This is an excellent time to invite those who have a need for commitment or a request for specific prayers to come forward and make this known.
The preacher will encourage those who wish to “respond” to come to the front of the auditorium while the congregation sings a hymn. Do not feel ill at ease during this invitation. You will not be singled out in any way. There may be several who respond or none. If anyone responds for baptism, you will witness the baptism during this service. The baptism will be by immersion and for the remission of sins. (Acts 8:35-38, Romans 6:3-4 Colossians 2:22, and Acts 2:38).
The People
What kind of people can you expect to find here? Pretty much the entire spectrum as in any group. You will find both the young and the aged. You will find longtime knowledgeable Christians as well as “babes” in Christ-those just beginning their walk with our Lord. You will find that a special kind of caring, loving frame of mind and state of heart permeates our entire assembly. At the Watertown Church of Christ you will find happy, friendly and loving people. We’re all on a journey. Here at Watertown we travel together, hand in hand supporting and encouraging one another, as we move further along the road of life toward the same desired destination – HEAVEN. We welcome you to join us on this journey.
OUR CONVICTIONS:
- God Exists
- Jesus Christ is the Son of God
- Jesus Christ rose from the grave
- Jesus Christ is the savior of the world
- Baptism (by full immersion) is commanded for the forgivness of ones sins
- The Bible is the inspired Word of God
