What should I expect when I visit?

Atlee is a very different type of church both inside and out.  You will notice that the building does not look like a typical traditional church building.  There is no steeple or stained glass for example.  We want visitors to come into the church without any preconceived notions they may have about church in general. 

Once you arrive inside, you will find smiling greeters (look for their greeter badges)  that are available to help you with any information you may need.  Get here a few minutes early and enjoy a cup of coffee and a bagel or some fruit at the Community Café, just inside the lobby area.  The kids hallway  is located to the left and the main auditorium is on the right.  

The auditorium has comfortable seating, two large screens on either side for viewing, and a state of the art sound system. 

What should I wear?

Dress comfortable!  Jeans and t-shirts are common attire. 

What is available for my kids?

There is a nursery for newborns, and individual classrooms for ages 1 – 5.  Children in elementary grades 1 – 5 can go to KidStuf, which is located in the last room to the right down the kids hallway.  KidStuf is action packed each week with music, drama, and small group breakouts, where kids learn about God in fun, age appropriate ways.

Parents are given a number when they check their children in, so that if needed, they can be notified on the screens in the main auditorium.

What is a seeker?

A seeker is merely someone that is searching out the truth about God, Jesus Christ and the Bible.

What is a believer?

A believer is someone that has fully placed their faith and trust in Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.

What denomination is the church?

The church is non-denominational.  We believe that there is one true universal church, known as the body of Christ in scripture, composed of all those who acknowledge Jesus Christ as Savior.  For more about what we believe, you can visit the statement of faith tab under the “About Us” tab.

Why don’t you pass an offering plate?

We prefer to use offering boxes, located in the rear of the auditorium and in the lobby, for those who attend to make an offering or contribution.  This way our visitors do not feel pressured to give.  If you would like to make an offering or contribute to this ministry, please look for the boxes near the exits.  Your generosity is appreciated.

When is communion and who can participate?

Communion (or the Lord’s Supper) is held on various nights at Focus.  Typically, it is scheduled about 5 times each year.  Anyone who has placed their faith in Jesus Christ as their personal Savior is welcome to participate.  You do not have to be a member of Atlee Community Church to take communion.

What is the SMT and what does the SMT do?

SMT stands for Spiritual Management Team.  In keeping with the biblical pattern of leadership, the SMT is modeled after elders found in 1Timothy 3:2-7, and 1Peter 5:2-3.  The role of the SMT is to assist the Senior Pastor and staff in the spiritual management of the church. 

What are Trustees and what do they do?

Trustees hold real and personal property of the church and serve as legal representatives of the church in financial, business and other matters as directed by the SMT.  They provide financial accountability and counsel to the SMT and staff.

How can I meet with the church staff?

Appointments can be made to meet with anyone on the church staff by calling the office at 730-3676.

Baptism

What about being baptized twice?

Our church recommends that you be baptized again if you have not been baptized by immersion since you became a believer. It doesn't devalue a prior experience but simply reflects your desire to be baptized in the same way Jesus was baptized.

Can my family be baptized together?

YES!! If each family member fully understands the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed his/her trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time. It is a wonderful expression of commitment.

Will I have to say anything?

No, you don't have to. At the beginning of the baptism service, the pastor will briefly explain the meaning of baptism. You will wait at the edge of the water for your turn to be baptized. The pastor will introduce you, just before you are baptized.