About Us

Churches, as described in the New Testament, are made up of people. A church is not a building where people meet or an organization to join, like a club. In the Bible, we see that churches are a collection of people who had heard the gospel and obeyed it to become followers of Jesus (Acts 14:21-23).

The Bible describes groups of these followers as "churches" (Romans 16:16). However, these groups of followers are not only described as churches, but as churches that are "of Christ."

Identifying themselves as "of Christ" was a way to show that they were not saved "of works," "of men," or by any other means. They were saved by Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-10).

At Summerville we are not a "church of " works, or creeds, or denominations. We are a diverse group of followers from various backgrounds, families, and locations with one thing in common. We simply desire to be a church that is "of Christ."

The Bible records that first-century Christians met together regularly on the first day of the week (Acts 20:7, Hebrews 10:25). Following the commandments of the Lord and the example set forth in God's Word, we meet each Sunday and include the following activities as a part of our fellowship together:

Singing

Singing is an expression of our hearts to God (Colossians 3:15-16, Ephesians 5:19-20). We do not use mechanical instruments. Instead, we use our voices and our hearts as instruments of praise and to encourage one another. A designated song leader will begin each song and everyone is encouraged to join in the congregational singing.

Prayer

Prayer is an avenue to offer praise to God, confess our shortcomings to Him, express thanksgiving to Him, and seek His help and blessing. It is not only an individual activity, but also one that the church does when it meets together (Acts 2:42, 1 Corinthians 14:15). Designated men will lead prayers at various times during the assembly. It is customary for the congregation to pray with heads bowed in reverence as the prayer leader addresses the Father.

Preaching

Preaching from God's Word is an effective tool for building up the church (Hebrews 10:24, 1 Timothy 4:13, Ephesians 4:11-13). Men of the Congregation deliver sermons on a volunteer basis, bringing a refreshing variety to our weekly assemblies. Listeners are always encouraged to examine God's Word in order to confirm the truth of the sermons that are preached.

The Lord's Supper

The Lord's Supper was initiated by Jesus just before his death (Luke 22:14-20). Paul identifies the Lord's Supper as an act in which member's of the Lord's body remember His death and have fellowship in the sacrifice of His body and his blood (1 Corinthians 10:16 & 11:23-26). By example, we share the Lord's Supper every Sunday (Acts 20:7). The congregation remains seated while the bread and the fruit of the vine are passed around.

Collection

A Collection of funds is necessary to carry on the work of the church. Members individually determine what they choose to give as a reflection of their prosperity and in order to give with a cheerful heart (1 Corinthians 16:2, 2 Corinthians 9:7). Visitors are not expected to participate.

For more information please read Church of Christ Doctrine.