We want you to enjoy your visit with us at the Piedmont church of Christ. It is our desire that you feel comfortable. However, we know that often while in an unfamiliar place one can feel uneasy. This is especially true in the religious arena. We hope the following information will alleviate any concerns you may have.

WORSHIP
The churches of Christ conduct worship services as close as possible to the way the Christians did in the first century . In worship they included singing, praying, giving, partaking of the Lord's Supper and preaching (Acts 2:42). Today we do the same. You will hear announcements being made about the church group and current activities before worship. At the end of the service the preacher will extend an invitation. He will encourage those who have a spiritual need to come forward during the singing of a hymn. There may be no responses. However, one or more may come forward to be baptized for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38-41) or to ask for prayers for a specific need.

SINGING
A unique thing about the singing - and something you might find strange - is that the church music is "a capella." That is, the singing is without the accompaniment of musical instruments. In the first century church every Christian was instructed to sing and make music (melody) in his heart to the Lord (Ephesians 5:19/Colossians 3:16). Based on this scripture and others, we conclude that early Christians sang without musical accompaniment. We do the same.

PRAYERS
There will be prayers offered by the men of the congregation during the assembly. These prayers can be for specific needs and requests. Prayers can also be generic for leaders of the nations and the spreading of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God (Philippians 4:6).

GIVING
The first century church gave on the first day of the week (1 Corinthians 16:1, 2). We do the same. As a visitor you are not expected to contribute to the work here in Farmville. However, if you would like to contribute, it will be graciously received.

THE LORD'S SUPPER
When you visit on Sunday, the Lord's Supper (unleavened bread and fruit of the vine) will be included as a part of our worship. This memorial was instituted by the Savior at the Passover meal, which took place on the evening of His betrayal (1 Corinthians 11:23-26). The first century church observed this in a memorial of the Lord's death every first day of the week (Acts 20:7). Today we do the same. You do not have to participate if you would rather not. Just pass the plate or tray to the person next to you. If you do participate realize it is a serious matter (1 Corinthians 11:27-29).

PREACHING
The sermon will be Bible-centered (1 Peter 4:11). Christianity is the religion of preaching (2 Timothy 4:2-5/Romans 10:14,15). It is an important part of Christian worship (Acts 20:7). Notice that "Paul.....continued his preaching until midnight." Paul admonished Timothy to, "Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage with great patience and careful instruction." (2 Timothy 4:2)

ALL ARE WELCOME!

THE CHURCH
The church is made up of people who are young, middle aged, old, and from different backgrounds. People, just like yourself. Each of us are at different levels of Bible knowledge and spiritual growth. We all realize we are not perfect and not without sin in our life (1 John 1:8), However, we also realize that if we do the best we can to worship and live, according to the Bible, our sins will be forgiven ( 1 John 1:9) and we will enjoy eternity in Heaven (1 John 5:13) the same as the Christians in the first century.

If you would be interested in further Bible study, the Piedmont church offers Bible correspondence courses, visual Bible studies on video tape, and open Bible study with one of our members or minister. You can contact the church at 804/392-5895 or by mail at the following address: P.O. Box 901, Farmville, VA 23901.