The Oceanside Church
of Christ is a growing, friendly church. In fact, that is the impression most
visitors take from their visit. Many new members have been added and most become
an active part of the ongoing program of work. We are a diverse congregation
that reflects the fact that God's church is for all people. The audience will
range in age from newborn babies (a nursery is available, by the way), to those
who have seen more than eighty years pass. Educationally, we have those
with doctor's degrees and those who have not spent much time in school. Most
fall in the category of high school graduates to college bachelor's degrees.
Professionally, there are those from all walks of life - blue and white collar
to students from elementary to college age and retirees. We have business
owners, plant workers, nurses, educators, office workers, welders, carpenters,
policemen, firemen, and many military families, along with everything in
between.
Some may feel a little
apprehensive about visiting a church the first time. Let us ease that feeling by
explaining a little about how the services are conducted. Every effort is made
to allow visitors to feel comfortable. You will not be singled out in any way.
You will not be asked to make a "love offering", in fact, no collection will be
taken at all except during the 11:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sunday services when our
members make their weekly offering as an act of worship. As a visitor, you
are not expected to give an offering.
Our services generally open with a
brief welcome. The song leader then leads the congregation in singing without
instrumental accompaniment. An opening prayer is offered, followed by more
singing and then the preacher delivers a sermon from the Bible. All are
encouraged to bring their Bibles and follow along during the study period. At
the end of the sermon, the Lord's invitation is extended. There is no coercion
or embarrassing displays. Each Sunday, the first day of the week, Communion is
served in remembrance of the death of Christ, and Christians may participate at
the morning or evening worship service, whichever is convenient. The service
concludes with a song and a closing prayer. Visitors may sit silently through
the service, or they may participate to the degree they feel
comfortable.
We are conveniently located
at 1025 Snug Harbor Court in Atlantic Beach, Florida. The Lord has blessed us
with a comfortable building that will seat over 200. There are free
study materials available for you to take home and age appropriate Bible classes
at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday morning and 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday evening.
This is the perfect time to make that visit you've been thinking about!
Sincerely,
The Elders