Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear to church?

Members and guests wear what they feel comfortable with. Some people wear suits and ties, while others are casually dressed. We do not judge anyone by their outward appearance – the inside is what counts! The only standard that we ask is that our members do not wear sexually provocative clothing.

I don’t feel worthy to attend church?

If you feel unworthy, you will fit right in at Royal Oak. None of us are worthy to be here. We are all sinners who have been forgiven by God’s grace. In fact, some of our folks have a pretty bad track record. As God’s Spirit works in our lives, we are changed to be more like Him every day.

Do I have to give money?

Members of the Royal Oak family are given an opportunity to help support the work of the church. There is no high pressure, guilt or manipulation talks. A prayer of thanksgiving and blessing is offered before we pass the collection trays. Guests are not required or expected to give.

Is there a program for my children?

YES. We have Bible classes for all ages from 10:00 – 10:45 every Sunday morning and Wednesday evening from 7:00 – 8:00. During our Sunday morning worship, we have a nursery for infants and toddlers and Children’s Worship for youngsters 4 years old through 5th grade. There is also an enclosed training room at the back of the auditorium for parents to change diapers, feed, train or tend to their children.

Will I get a high-pressure sales pitch?

NO – We will be friendly and kind to you and we want you to feel welcome and accepted in our church family. We also want to make your time with us encouraging and as stress-free as possible. If you have any questions or comments, please ask one of our shepherds, ushers or Welcome Center workers.

What is the Worship Service like?

SONGS – We enjoy participating in sing several songs during the worship. While most people follow the words and music that are projected on a screen, some use the hymn books. We sing a variety of songs from old favorite hymns to some of the newer praise and worship songs. We do not have a church choir or soloists. Please feel free to sing along with us.

We sing acapella, which means without an instrument. Both members and guests often comment on the quality, beauty and simplicity of the song service. It really doesn’t matter what you sound like (even if you’re off key) because God listens to your heart. We encourage everyone to follow the directives in Ephesians 5:18-21 and Colossians 3:16-17

PRAYERS – You will find that leaders usually pray several times during our worship service. We thank and praise God for all that He has done for us physically and spiritually; we ask for God’s blessing on the church and our mission; we plead for strength for those who are sick and suffering; and we seek spiritual renewal and strength.

COMMUNION – Every Christian is invited to join in the Lord’s Supper or Communion service. Each week we celebrate and reflect on the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus by eating a piece of unleavened bread and drinking the fruit of the vine (grape juice). Read Mark 14:22-25 and 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 for more details.

FINANCIAL GIFTS – Church members are given an opportunity to give to help with the financial commitments of the church. We do not make any high pressure talks or manipulative pleas. We encourage members to follow the examples in 1 Corinthians 16:1-2; 2 Corinthians 8:1-9; Matthew 6:1-4 and 19-21. Money collected is used to maintain the physical campus, purchase education and evangelistic material, upkeep general supplies, pay staff salaries, support mission works around the world, supply resources for our ministries, plant new churches and help our community with benevolent needs.

BIBLE READING – Paul urged a young evangelist named Timothy to continue reading the Scriptures publicly (1 Timothy 4:15). If you do not have a Bible, there are Bibles available for use in the seats. If you would like a Bible of your own, just ask and we will give a copy to you.

LESSON – A lesson of encouragement is given for about 30 minutes centered around a Biblical theme or verse. This is a time when we are reminded of God’s love and grace. We are also challenged to grow in our faith and allow God to work in our lives each day. Everyone is given an opportunity to become a Christian, ask for prayer or seek spiritual counsel following the lesson.

CHURCH EVENTS – In order to keep our family informed, a few brief announcements are made regarding upcoming events, special programs and the critical physical needs of our members. A church bulletin is printed each week with a list of events, announcements, schedules and news updates.

Do You Have Other Questions?

Please call our office or e-mail us with other questions, comments or concerns. We would like to dialogue.