What to expect
as you Plan your Visit
“What should I wear?”
Our advice is “be forgettably presentable.” We want the Lord be the center of attention at worship, rather than our wealth, bodies, or personal interests (Jas 2:2-4; 1 Tim 2:8-10).
“Does the service start on time?”
We try to respect everyone by starting and finishing on schedule. So we advise coming ten or fifteen minutes early to get oriented, use the bathroom, and find the nursery if needed. If you arrive late, that’s okay. An usher will help you find a seat.
“how long are your services”
Typically between 60-75 minutes. Sermons are around 35 minutes.
“What do I do with my kids?”
We provide childcare up to age 3. Nursing mothers may use the church library and fellowship hall (the service is live streamed on TVs). Otherwise, we welcome children to join for worship. This reflects our view of God’s family-inclusive way of forming his people. Don’t worry, we won’t be annoyed if your kids make some noise; we’ve all been there. Persistent criers can be taken to the foyer to calm down. Having whole families and multiple generations worship together is a big part of discipleship. Our pastors make a point to address people of all ages, including kids and teens.
“Where do I Sit?”
There are no assigned seats. An usher will be on hand to help if needed. If your party is large, we suggest arriving 15 minutes early to ensure you can sit comfortably together.
What is the worship service like?
“...biblically saturated, theologically substantive, and personally formative...”
structure — biblically & historically informed
Each of the elements that make up the service is drawn from biblical examples and commands, and modeled after how faithful Christians from all nations have worshiped throughout the ages. If you were to compare our services to one from the 2nd century in Jerusalem, or 16th century Geneva, you would find they are almost identical in form. We view this not merely as “traditional” worship, but as participating in an enduring, powerful, and above all biblical way of honoring and experiencing God.
Music — Vibrant & congregational
Like every part of the service, our music exists chiefly for God’s pleasure and glory. We incorporate the 150 biblical psalms as well as traditional and recent hymns. We believe music should unite God’s diverse people in a way that reflects heavenly worship. So rather than cater to various trends or demographics, we prioritize vibrant congregational singing with minimal accompaniment. You can listen to several recordings of our songs here. Here’s one example from a typical Sunday:
Preaching
The aim of every sermon at Phoenix URC is to connect the hope of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit to how God now calls believers to live by faith. Rev. Spotts aims to be clear, concise, and biblically grounded in his teaching, as well as realistic, specific, and insightful in his applications. We bring in guest pastors and interns frequently so that we can benefit from a variety of perspectives, styles, and applications.
The morning service usually features an expository series through various books of the Bible. The evening “catechetical” service usually addresses one of the core teachings of the Christian faith and life, as summarized in the Heidelberg Catechism, and explained from Scripture.
gifts & offerings — voluntary & not the focus
Visitors are under no obligation or expectation to give financially. Our pastors and elders have zero access to individual financial records, nor is giving something they address often. But in accordance with Scripture, our deacons collect voluntary offerings which go to local and international ministries, foreign missions, and benevolent needs in the community (Ezra 2:68; 2 Cor 6:7). Around half of our annual giving is directed outside of our congregation. We’re a financially accountable and transparent organization.
After Service...
coffee & Refreshments
Served freely after AM services on the side patio or in the fellowship hall. This is a good time to meet people or receive prayer from elders or deacons.
Sunday School (11:00-11:45 AM)
We offer a variety of classes for adults and children (K-12). We break for summer and holidays.
Hospitality Lunch
Families often take turns hosting a meal for visitors. It's a great way to get to know others and enjoy some good food. Ask a Greeter for details.
