Why Family Integrated.
Family Integrated Churches come in all shapes, sizes and varieties. They live in nearly every denominational and theological tradition, and in most areas of the world. While no two are exactly alike, they each have certain distinctions in common.
Families Worship Together
If you’ve ever walked into a Family Integrated Church during a worship service, perhaps the first thing that struck you was the fact that there were so many babies and small children in the service.
We have grown accustomed to the presence of children in the service, and the children grow accustomed to being a part of the worship experience.
No one will stop you at the door if you try to enter our service with your toddler.
No Systematic Age Segregation
One of the biggest distinctions of a Family Integrated Church is the absence of age-segregated ministries. We do not have segregated youth ministry, or children’s ministry.
First, many of these ministries are not part of the biblical church model. The Bible is clear on whose job it is to disciple children: parents.
Second, these ministries can work against God’s design. Parents relieved of their discipleship duties tend to become dependent on those who have taken over the job.
Evangelism/Discipleship Through Homes
We teach parents to evangelize and disciple their children and their neighbors. We emphasize the ministry of hospitality, family worship, catechism, and family discipleship.
Instead of placing the burden on paid professionals to “do the work of the ministry,” we equip the saints to do it.
Weekly Fellowship Meal
Each week we have a fellowship meal following the service. This encourages all families to grow in love and unity with one another, and to grow into one large family of Christ.
Jesus teaches his disciples to love one another, for through loving one another the world will see the true disciples of Christ. We see the fellowship meal as one way for our church to encourage everyone to love one another by getting to know one another in deep, personal relationships.
Also, this meal encourages anyone to ask questions about the sermon and talk to our pastor on more of a personal level.