The Gathering
FAQ
Some questions we’ve been frequently asked.
And a few answers to go along with them.
Why, “The Gathering”?
We could have called it the 6:00pm service but really, does that do anything for you? We don’t want it to be just another service because everyone already has an idea of what a “church service” should be. We’d like this to be different – in style and format.
How is “The Gathering” different?
You might notice “The Gathering” to be more casual – come as you are. The Gathering will be distinctly missional in flavor – the thrust is that God is on a mission to win the hearts of people everywhere and He calls us to join with Him in this mission. While there is a strong emphasis on spiritual development, there is an equally strong focus on the Biblical principle that God is preparing us to DO something in His world. To that end, we will incorporate different styles of worship in a relaxed casual atmosphere.
But, why yet another service?
We believe the relaxed atmosphere and evening time frame will attract some who might not otherwise attend “church.” For example, people who work nights, college age and singles, folks who just don’t get up before noon, folks arriving home late from vacation – there are many for whom evening just might “fit” better.
Is this still BUMC?
You bet – we are one body with many expressions – this is just another option. We will endeavor to join in all church-wide activities such as the Chicken BBQ, Christmas at Bethlehem, small groups, and anything else that leads us to the fulfillment of our church-wide vision. While we will meet at separate times and the service will have a different feel, we will have plenty of places to overlap.
What happens to youth group?
The goal is to have the youth continue to attend on Sunday Eve to experience relevant worship and messages that will help them effectively engage their culture. There will be some “hang out” time at the end of each service, including occasional special events that could go later, especially in the summer months.
Will there be child care?
Our goal is to have the nursery available (if personnel are available) and children’s church/Superchurch available for fourth grade and below.
Is there food or snacks?
We want to encourage the vision of BUMC, of creating authentic community in every way we can. We currently plan to serve coffee but more could certainly be done if someone has the vision to organize it.
When does it start?
The launch is Sunday September 13th.
The service begins at 6:00pm and will run approximately an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes. We would like to have a little freedom with the length.
Other Questions?