Question 1

What is a "Reformed" Church?"

Accepted Answer

The word comes from reformatio, meaning to “return” or be “renewed.” The Protestant Reformation, which our church is linked to, was essentially a renewal movement. The Reformers sought to return to the Bible as the supreme standard and source of spiritual life.
​
Features of a modern Reformed perspective include:
Christ-centered thinking and living (Colossians 1:15-20; 2:6,7)
Biblically informed worldview (2 Timothy 3:16),
Emphasis on God's sovereignty (Isaiah 40:1-31; Psalm 115:1-3)
Doctrinal integrity (Hebrews 5:11-6:2)
Historic consciousness (Psalm 78:1-72)
Missional orientation (John 20:21).
All serve the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31)

Question 2

Why do children sit in on "adult" worship service?"

Accepted Answer

Many churches segregate minors from the main service. We believe the Bible presents a different dynamic: all-ages uniting to pray, sing, listen, understand, and give voice to God's grace and goodness in their lives (Deuteronomy 31:12, Ezra 10:1; Nehemiah 8:2). We have found this integrative practice to be a great blessing to us. We hope you do too!

Question 3

How do I get connected to the community at Immanuel URC?

Accepted Answer

God has created His people for fellowship (Acts 2:42-48; 4:32-35; Ephesians 2:19-22) and so connecting is an integral component of Imannuel URC's ministry. Sundays are the best place to begin. Relationships are formed and deepened before, during, and after worship. Post-worship fellowship also provides an opportunity for relationship-building as well as informal contacts throughout the week.

Question 4

How do people give to Immanuel URC? Where does it go?

Accepted Answer

Giving is an important component of Christian living. Giving comes in the form of spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-6; Ephesians 4:7) and material offerings (Malachi 3:10; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8). Opportunities abound at IURC for both. As to monetary offerings, IURC supports a number of carefully designated causes including such things as local benevolence and budgetary needs, home and foreign missions, Christian education, disaster relief, and other causes. Immanuel URC's deacons as managers of spiritual and material resources (Acts 6:1-6; 1 Timothy 3:8-13) ensure that all monies given are accounted for and distributed properly.

Question 5

Why do you have creeds, catechisms, and confessions?"

Accepted Answer

The purpose of these historic summaries of Christian beliefs is to systematically teach (Luke 1:1-3; 1 Timothy 4:16), protect (2 Peter 3:17), and defend (Jude 3) the faith. They do not possess the same inspired authority as the Bible (2 Timothy 3:16; 2 Peter 2:19-21), yet they are useful as faithful summaries of what the Bible teaches and help in discipling new believers (Matthew 28:19,20).

Question 6

Why become a member of the church?

Accepted Answer

Church membership is an important component of Christian discipleship. Jesus said, "Whoever would come after Me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow Me." (Matthew 16:24). The Bible teaches us that to follow Christ requires that we join ourselves to His church (Hebrews 10:22-25; Acts 2:47). Membership is the means whereby we formally commit ourselves to the local expression of Christ's church much like formal vows commit husbands and wives to each other. Church membership brings with it the fruits of joy, fellowship, service, pastoral oversight, and accountability in the local church. Church membership has been a great blessing to us. If you want to know the process for becoming a member at IURC, see any Elder, Rev. Roberto Rossi, or contact us.

Question 7

Why should I consider attending the monthly prayer meeting?

Accepted Answer

First, the corporate prayer meeting–the gathered church bowed at the mercy seat–provides some of our most direct congregational dealing with heaven.
Second, the prayer meeting is often one of the distinct places where we keep up with the spiritual family business of God’s people.
Third, it is also a particular opportunity for fellowship.
Fourth, the prayer meeting also energises our souls for other duties and opportunities.
Finally, it is one of the places where a child of God demonstrates growing spiritual maturity to his brothers.
For a discussion of these reasons visit
https://banneroftruth.org/us/resources/articles/2021/the-prayer-meeting-2/
Thanks to Banner of Truth for granting us permission to use this material.

Question 8

When are the monthly prayer meetings?

Accepted Answer

We meet the second Wednesday of every month at 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm in the Adult Sunday School Room.

Question 9

How do we celebrate the arrival of new babies?

Accepted Answer

A Baby Shower will be held for the first baby born to an Immanuel member’s family. Ladies of the congregation, high school age and older, will be welcome to join in a night of celebration and fellowship. If you are a new member, and having baby #2 or #3, etc., we will celebrate the arrival of your little one with a New Baby Welcome...kind of like a “sprinkle,” instead of a shower!
A New Baby Welcome  will be a night to welcome and celebrate the newborn with small gifts such as onesies, diapers or a favorite book.

Question 10

Is it true we have both bride and groom showers?

Accepted Answer

Yes - it is true. A Bridal Shower will be held for any bride or groom member of our church upon his/her engagement. The bride/groom may choose a Traditional Shower of ladies only (high school and older) or a Wedding Welcome when men are also welcome to join in celebrating the upcoming couple’s wedding. There may be circumstances where the bride/groom cannot attend a shower, in which case, a Card Shower may be held.

Question 11

Do we have a Special Events Coordinator?

Accepted Answer

Yes we do!  It is Mary Vander Molen.

Question 12

What is involved in being a greeter at Immanuel URC?

Accepted Answer

Greeters at the North and South Entrances: Arrive approximately 20 minutes before the service begins and stand near the door where your assignment is. Depending on the weather, you can stand inside or just outside the entrance.

If you know the people who are entering are visitors, introduce yourself and direct them to the sanctuary. If a family enters with babies or toddlers, ask the parents if they would like to know where the nursery is located.

Elevator Attendants: Stay close to the door where the elevator opens to the handicapped parking area on the west side of church. Before sitting down in the worship service, stay in the back of church for a few minutes and wait to see if there are latecomers who may need assistance.

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