What to Expect When You Visit Us

One of the questions in nearly anyone’s mind when going to visit some new church or congregation is: “What do they do, how do they do it, and what do they expect me to do?”

The Vernal congregation is made up of an eclectic group, many of whom moved to Vernal from several different States.  The practices of those past experiences have blended together to create a home style relaxed family time together.

So what do we do?  First off, no two gatherings are exactly alike.  God tells us the reason for the gathering together in Heb. 10:23-25.  He says:  (LITV)  “let us hold fast the confession of the hope unyielding, for He who has promised is faithful.  (24)  And let us consider one another, to incitement of love and of good works,  (25)  not forsaking the assembling together of ourselves, as is the custom of some, but exhorting, and by so much more as you see the Day drawing near.”  Paul instructs: 1Th 5:11 NASB  “Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing.”  Again the purpose of our gathering is related in Heb 3:13 NASB  “But encourage one another day after day, as long as it is still called ‘Today,’ so that none of you will be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.”

Our assembly time, as directed by God, is to be a time of encouragement.  Many think of “Assembly” as a time of worship, but “worship” is more of a by-product than a goal as we do His will.

You will find us singing songs of praise and reflection.  You may or may not know some of them.  That’s ok.  Every song anyone ever sung was new to them at some point.  If you know the song, join in heartily and if you don’t, join in anyway.  We love to have your voice added to ours. You’ll notice that we sing Acappella.  That means without any accompanying instruments.  Why? Well, lots of discussion might be had on the topic, but suffice to say we, as humans, lift up the voices God, Himself, created in praise back to Him.

You’ll notice prayers interspersed throughout our assemblies.  Most of the time, these prayers are extemporaneous (off the cuff) as the leader guides us in approaching God’s throne.

If you are with us on a Sunday, you’ll notice that we participate in “The Lord’s Supper.”  This is a commemoration for believers of the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus.  Our communion is an “open” communion as God instructs each person to examine himself as to how he participates, not that he is examined by anyone else.  Paul explains: 1Co 11:26-28 NASB  “For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until He comes.  (27)  Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner, shall be guilty of the body and the blood of the Lord.  (28)  But a man must examine himself, and in so doing he is to eat of the bread and drink of the cup.”

On a Sunday you will see a collection taken.  This is for members only and you are not expected to participate.  This collection is to take care of the congregation’s financial obligations and outside works that are being supported.  We do not expect visitors to take care of our responsibilities.

You might be concerned that you don't have "something to wear."  Don't let that bother you at all.  Jesus is interested in your soul, not your clothes.  And if your soul is a little soiled......or completely disheveled, Jesus is able and happy to clean it up.  Most of the folks who attend wear casual attire.  Even the "preacher" does not wear a suit.  Just come and enjoy without concerns of fashion.  We won't care.  We're just glad you're here.

One last thing:  We’d really appreciate it if you’d stick around a little bit and let us get to know you.  You are our honored guest and it is a true compliment that you have taken your time to come and visit with us.  Allow us the opportunity to say thank you.

If you have questions about anything you see or hear, please ask one of us about it.  We welcome your comments and observations.