Searching For A Church?

If you’re searching for a church it can sometimes be challenging to assess all the options, put your toe in the water and then make a big commitment.  It almost feels a bigger decision than choosing your spouse!  Well, it’s not THAT big, but it is an important decision.


Here at ZION we believe God calls people to a specific church for a specific reason.  Just in the same way we didn’t choose our natural family, so too we believe it’s not up to us to choose our church family.  God has prepared a place for you to belong, to grow and to thrive.  Each one of us have been given gifts, talents and passions by God (Romans 12:6) and the local church is where we serve from, using our gifts as directed by God.


In this day of technology it would be easy for people to isolate at home and enjoy church from afar, never interacting with others and many do.  The mission of the church is outreach and this cannot be achieved in isolation.  In the same way, the discipline of christians must be to meet together for corporate worship, teaching and fellowship.  (Hebrews 10:25)  By following a ‘Temple’ and ‘Table’ model ZION integrates corporate worship, teaching, and fellowship while also encouraging the practice of gathering in homes, where our people can interact in a deeper and more intimate way. This hybrid model of church continues to provide that brief moment of refreshing and re-lighting the fire for the life we are called to live all week, no matter where our people are located.


If you’re searching for a church, here are a few things to consider.


What is God saying to you?

It seems a strange thing to put first, especially when many people seek comfort over submission, but we believe God will direct you.  He knows your heart, He knows what is best for you and your kids, He knows where you will be able to thrive in this season of your life.  Trust Him and ask Him where He would like you to be connected.


Here at ZION we are confident that God will lead you and we want you to find that place God has prepared for you.  If it’s not with us, then it’s better for all of us that you find the right place.


What style of worship are you used to?

Searching for a church is definitely about finding a place where you can feel safe and where you will grow from that safe place.  There’s no point trying to wedge yourself into a church that you don’t feel like you belong, so consider whether you are more conservative, traditional, contemporary or free-spirited.


At ZION we would be referred to as a modern pentecostal church.  You can read more about our faith in our Statement of Faith.


What does it feel like to be here?

Why don’t you come and visit for a Sunday or two?  Perhaps connect with another family and ask them what they enjoy about being a part of ZION.  Trust your inner compass to guide you – that’s the Holy Spirit leading you.


Our hope is that you would feel welcome as a visitor, that you would feel no pressure in any aspect of your time with us, and, most importantly, that you would feel like you were able to connect personally with God while you were with us.


Treat this journey as an adventure where the Lord is leading you to discover the treasure He has prepared for you.


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