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Visiting Churches

The Friendly Church

Retired and Welcoming This church has an innocuous name, giving no clue about who they are. But this is precisely why I didn’t dismiss it or the people who go there. Besides judging churches by their affiliation—or more precisely applauding their lack of a denominational connection—I realize I’ve also begun judging churches by their websites. […]

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Christian Living

What Does Nondenominational Mean?

Many Churches Misuse This Word and Don’t Even Know It Some churches call themselves nondenominational. But from a practical perspective and a functional standpoint I doubt how true their assessment is. Nondenominational Definition Nondenominational refers to a person or an entity—usually a church—that does not restrict themselves to or affiliated with a particular denomination. They […]

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Visiting Churches

Mother’s Day, Ascension Sunday, & Baby Dedications

This nontypical, nondenominational church enjoys a good amount of positive local buzz. Today is Mother’s Day. I’m apprehensive because visiting a church on a holiday never provides a typical experience. Consider these seven discussion questions about Church 64. 1. Two young women at the entrance to the parking lot smile and wave as we pull […]

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Visiting Churches

Church #64: Is Bigger Always Better?

It’s been three months since visiting the last church. We’ve slipped back into the routine of our own church, yet my unrest over going there remains strong. A Last Minute Change “Do you want to go to a different church today?” My bride’s words surprise me. She just crawled out of bed and, though awake, […]

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Visiting Churches

A Church on Every Corner: Discussing Church #62

It’s a nondenominational church plant, with the sending congregation residing several states away. It’s curious that an out-of-state church would launch a ministry in an area noted for its religious reputation, with “a church on every corner.”  Consider these seven discussion questions about Church #62, in an area that seems to have a church on […]

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Visiting Churches

Church #62: Off to a Great Start

I notice a church sign in front of a school. It’s not been there before. I’m quite sure. I’m partial to churches that meet in nontraditional spaces. They are more likely to be nontraditional in their approach to God, being spiritually invigorating and providing a breath of freshness. As a bonus, they don’t have the […]

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Visiting Churches

Church #55: New and Small

One of our goals in 52 Churches was to visit all ten churches located in our local school district. After 52 Churches ended, that number increased to eleven. The primary marketing for this new church is yard signs, spread throughout the area, suggesting a different kind of church. We make a mental note to visit. […]

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Visiting Churches

Something’s Missing at This Church

Discussing Church 16 This nondenominational church meets in a public school auditorium. Consider these four discussion questions about Church #16:  1. Renting space saves the church from purchasing and maintaining a facility.  Whether you own your building or rent space, how can you maximize your outreach and better impact your community? 2. They use more […]

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Visiting Churches

Growing Deeper (Visiting Church #2)

This Sunday we visit a nondenominational church. It’s three years old and I know a bit about it and its pastor, who I perceive as a mostly postmodern guy possessing a modern theology. I suspect the church will mirror that. Located in a small strip mall, I find a parking spot near the door. Only […]