How do I fit into First Assembly?

There are three levels of belonging to the family of First Assembly. With a congregational form of government we have certain criteria laid out by our Constitution and Bylaws by which we operate as a legal entity, as well as a family that is inclusive of every one who chooses to identify with us.

Pastoral Care
After someone has been in attendance at our Sunday Worship Celebration for at least three times, we assign them to a Pastoral Care Team that contacts them and stays in touch with them over the period of time they fellowship with us. It may be for prayer support, or a home visit, or a phone call in the event of absence due to illness or difficulties. First and last, we are relational in our approach to ministry. We see church as a family experience that requires human contact.

Member
Once relationship has been established, we invite new folk to a New Beginnings Family Connection meeting, where we as Pastoral staff share our vision and Biblical position as a church. Opportunity is given to sign a First Family Covenant if one decides to associate with us. First Assembly has now become your church home, and we become your pastors with all of the privileges and responsibilities of ministry available to you. Membership is designed to be a growing up in Christ’s place until you are ready for partnership.

Partnership
Partnership is the third phase of being a part of First Assembly. Only partners experience the following privileges and carry these responsibilities. Leadership is chosen from this group. Tithing is a way of life and voting privileges are given on all major decisions of the church. Commitment is made to a godly lifestyle and a refraining from social, spiritual, mental and physical ills and habits that hinder our witness for Christ. Discipline is accepted in a spirit of love as unto the Lord. Most importantly, a partner is one who believes in and is committed to the vision and purpose of First Assembly to impact our region and fulfill what we believe is God’s dream for us to change our world.

You may want to see and hear more about our church. Periodically, about every six weeks, we have what we call First Family Connection Time, and you are invited to share an evening of pizza together and get acquainted. During the meeting we cover such topics as “What We Believe” (doctrine), a little of our history as a movement and our vision for the future. You will be given opportunity for questions throughout our informal time together. At the end of the evening we go over our First Family Covenant to become a member (See above). Opportunity is given to become a member. Obligation is not a part of our thinking. Including and helping you to belong is!