WHAT TO EXPECT
Expect to Feel Loved
Visiting a church can be a scary experience!
But when you come to Heritage, you can relax.
First, none of us "have it all together."
That's probably why we make such a close family, because we're all sort of "limping through life: and growing in grace." We're not evaluating you—when you walk in, we're glad to see you! Don't worry about having to "measure up" or "fit in." None of us really measure up, and we're all very different. Our family is very diverse, so fitting in isn't an issue.
We're not really religious.
Sounds strange coming from a “church.” Honestly, religion has let a lot of people down. Religious structures and systems are confusing and complicated—and disconnected from real life. We would love to help you move from “religion” into an authentic relationship with Jesus Christ.
We speak plain English.
We worship Jesus, we believe and study the Bible, we encourage each other—and we do it all in terms you’ll understand and be able to connect to your everyday struggles in life. We believe and teach what the Bible actually says and why it matters—No pointless tradition, no archaic languages, no “droning” irrelevant lectures, no pious arrogance. We open the Bible and apply it to real life in the 21st century—and it makes a BIG difference!
A lot of us are new.
Our pastor and much of our church family are new in recent months! We’re all getting to know each other and finding our place in this growing body of loving, Christian friends. We really are just regular, friendly people—“Religious” people often come off contrived, artificial, and argumentative. You won’t find that at Heritage Baptist. We’re like you—working hard, fighting for healthy relationships, looking for encouragement, and glad to have some good friends who also have faith in Jesus Christ.
Expect to Feel Accepted
We'd love to have you visit this Sunday!
1.
Expect a friendly, grace-filled culture.
Guests usually say, "Wow, I've never been to a church this friendly..." We believe the church should be an enjoyable place where memories are made. Jesus loved the church, and we know it is a place He wanted to be a place of friendliness, grace, love, and hope.
3.
Expect to find a place where you can fit in.
Your family or friends will find a class designed just for them! Nurseries, children's ministries, student ministry, and adult groups are all well-planned and prepared so that your Sunday is well invested into personal growth and biblical encouragement.
5.
Expect a practical Bible message.
Pastor Carpenter will teach through a practical series that applies God's wisdom to everyday life situations. The Bible has the answers you've been longing for, and it's essential for your journey through life.
7.
Expect to feel welcomed.
Every week, new guests are visiting for the first time—many of them would not call themselves Christians or even “religious.” Many of them are burnt out on religion and secularism. Religion tells us to “be good enough” to please God—that’s hopeless. Secularism tells us “there is no God, so life itself is meaningless and hopeless.” But Jesus presents the only hopeful answer!
2.
Expect some help along the way.
Greeters will welcome you and help you find classes and nurseries. Ushers will guide you to your seat once you enter our auditorium for the worship service. You can also visit our Welcome Center at any time for more help.
4.
Expect meaningful worship.
At Heritage, we worship Jesus. The music is meaningful, enjoyable, and refreshing. Our goal is worship, not entertainment, and we believe the music will touch you deeply. We also have an opportunity to give, but as our guest, please do not feel obligated to give during the offering.
6.
Expect to be impacted for the better.
Our goal is simple—to love you and encourage you. Whatever you’re facing, wherever you come from, whatever decisions you are up against, God’s Word, God’s grace, and God’s love through the person of Jesus Christ will make a massive difference. Honestly, you’ve never been so loved!
8.
Expect to find hope.
Whether you believe in Jesus or not, have an open mind and come hear God’s Word taught clearly and practically. Investigate who Jesus really is and discover what most religions never tell you about the Bible. Come experience grace in action, and discover the hope that God offers through a relationship, not a religion!