EmmanuelChurch

General - General

What times is the Children's Ministry available?  Top

Saturdays 5:30 p.m. (check-in time is 5:00 p.m.)

Sundays 9:15 a.m. (check-in time is 8:50-9:30 a.m.)

Sundays 11:15 a.m. (check-in time is 10:50-11:30 a.m.)

All weekend services have identical children's programming.

 

Do you require parents to work in the nurseries or classrooms?  Top

Once parents begin attending Emmanuel on a regular basis, we always encourage parents to serve with us in our nurseries and classrooms. While we do our best to provide consistent teachers and leaders in our classrooms, there are always times when people need to be absent, and we do call on our parents to fill those places as needed. Also, in order to allow our weekly leaders to have a much-deserved break, we will use parents throughout the summer to assist in staffing classrooms.

 

What if my child is having trouble adjusting to his or her surroundings?  Top

Parents and their children can watch the adult service via live video in the Family Room (adjacent to the Information Center on the east side of the lobby), if their child has difficulty adjusting to his or her surroundings in All Stars children's ministry.

 

Is there a private area available for me to nurse my child?   Top

A Mother's Room has been created adjacent to the e-Cafe, where moms can nurse their babies in privacy and watch a live video feed of the adult service.

 

General - Weekend Services

When are your services and other meetings?  Top

Our services are Saturday evenings at 5:30pm, and Sundays at 9:15 and 11:15am. Services typically run 1 hour 15 minutes. Identical children's (preschool-5th grade) programs run during all weekend services. Our Middle School meets on Sunday mornings from 11:15am-12:15pm in The Fieldhouse, and our High School meets on Sunday evenings from 5:30-7:00pm, also in The Fieldhouse.  We have several Bible studies available for senior adults--every Wednesday evening at 7:00pm, as well as the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month at 10:00am. Our young adults (the well) meet on the first Thursday each month at 7:30pm at The Fieldhouse.

 

When I enter your campus lot, what should I do?  Top

If you are a first-time guest, we've saved some spots just for you! Please be sure to turn on your flashers as you enter the lot so that our parking attendants can help you find exactly where you need to go.

 

What should I wear to your services?  Top

We realize people attending our services come from all walks of life, and we want you to come as you are. To some, that may mean dress slacks. To others, it may mean jeans, a dress, or shorts. All are welcome.

 

What can I expect in a "typical" weekend service?  Top

One of the most important things to our weekend services team is that you experience an environment that makes sense to you. You can first grab a complimentary cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or tea at our e-Cafe and head into the main auditorium. You will participate in a dynamic worship time and then you will hear a message that will challenge and encourage you. A typical service will last around 1 hour 15 minutes.

 

I have kids. Where should I park and where do they go?   Top

The best location for you to park when entering our campus is on the east side of the building. As you enter, you will see the "Visiting Team" check-in area where you will be greeted by someone who will help you through the check-in process. To view an explanation of our check-in process, please click here.

 

Is there somewhere I can get refreshments before the service?  Top

Free coffee, tea, hot chocolate are available in our e-Cafe. You're welcome to take your drink with you into the auditorium (cup holders are on the back of every seat) for the service. Enjoy!

 

General - Membership

Why does Emmanuel place so much importance on membership?   Top

We want to partner with people who believe in the vision of this church. Membership is the way in which we do this. By becoming a member, you are saying that you are committed to this work and to serving with us together to see people come to Christ and grow in Christ.

 

Why do some leadership positions require membership?  Top

Through the membership process, we can more easily identify those who have received Christ, as well as identify those who would be considered for a leadership role. Also, when someone becomes a member, they are taking the next step in identifying they are committed to the work and vision of Emmanuel.

 

What prerequisites are there for membership?   Top

First, a person must have a personal relationship with Jesus. Second, a person must have been baptized through immersion (to identify them as a follower of Christ). Finally, a person must agree to abide by the core beliefs and values of the church.

 

Are there other things expected of members?  Top

The expectations of all members are first that they will participate in a small group. We believe life change happens best in small groups, and they are used for accountability, biblical teaching, and care. Next, it is expected that every member serve in some capacity, either in the church or in the community. Third, we expect every member to attend our weekend services. Finally, it is expected that members financially support our church.

 

How do I become a member?   Top

We are excited to make membership information available to you online. Click here to begin watching our online membership video which will give you all of the details you need to know about membership. If you prefer to fill out a paper application, you may pick up a Membership Packet at the Information Center in our lobby.

 

General - Beliefs

What does Emmanuel believe about the Bible?   Top

We believe the Bible to be the inspired, infallible, authoritative Word of God. (II Tim. 3:16-17; II Peter 1:20-21)

 

What does Emmanuel believe about God?   Top

We believe there is one God, and He exists in three persons (called The Trinity): The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. (Genesis 1:1, 2b; Deuteronomy 6:4) The Father sent His Son to earth, and He became flesh through the virgin birth. He lived a sinless life on earth, died on the cross, and took the punishment of our sins through his shed blood. He was buried and rose again the third day. He ascended up to heaven and waits at the right hand of His Father until the day He will return for all who have placed faith in Him. The Holy Spirit is given to every believer at the time of salvation. He guides the believer throughout life through encouragement, conviction, reproof, and correction. We are not part of the charismatic movement.

 

What does Emmanuel believe about creation?   Top

We believe in the special creation by God done in six literal days of the creation week. We believe in the biblical record of history, including the literal existence of Adam and Eve as the ancestors of all people, the literal fall resulting in the divine curse on the creation, and the worldwide catastrophe, known as the Universal Flood. (Genesis 1:5-23; Exodus 20:11)

 

What does Emmanuel believe about Satan?   Top

We believe Satan exists; in his power and kingdom, in his deceit, in his judgment at the cross, and his eternal destruction in Hell. (Isaiah 14:12-17; Ephesians 2:2; 6:12)

 

What does Emmanuel believe about salvation?  Top

We believe salvation is a gift of God offered to man by His grace. It is received by personal repentance and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ's death on the cross, burial, and resurrection from the grave. (John 6:29; Ephesians 2:8-9)

 

What does Emmanuel believe about security of a believer?  Top

We believe in the eternal security of the believer--once a person has received the gift of salvation, they are secure by the power of God and can never be "lost" again. (John 10:27-28; Romans 5:10)

 

What does Emmanuel believe about baptism?   Top

We believe upon a person's receiving the gift of salvation, they should follow the Lord in baptism to identify them with the message of Christ.  At Emmanuel, we practice immersion. (Acts 10:47)

 

What does Emmanuel believe about Heaven and Hell?  Top

We believe in a literal Heaven (a place prepared for those who have received the gift of salvation) and a literal Hell (a place of separation from Christ for those who have not placed faith in the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ). (I Thessalonians 4:16; Matthew 8:11-12; Revelations 20:15) 

 

Does Emmanuel practice the taking of communion?  Top

Yes. We believe communion is a symbolic act of obedience where members, by taking the bread and juice, remember the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Communion is a time of reflection and confession of any known sins keeping the believer from having a close relationship with the Lord. We believe participating in communion is something the Lord has commanded for believers to do until He returns. (Matthew 26:26-29; I Corinthians 11:23-32). Communion is incorporated into services at Emmanuel several times throughout the year.

 

General - Values

What are values of Emmanuel?  Top

• God's ultimate goal is to glorify Himself. (I Corinthians 10:31)
• The preaching and teaching of the Word of God changes lives. (Hebrews 4:12)
• Lost people matter to God, and, therefore, they matter to us. (Matthew 4:19)
• Every believer is called to become more and more like Christ in his/her character. (Romans 12:2)
• Life change happens best in small groups. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)
• God works when we pray. (James 5:16)
• The church should present spiritual truth in an understandable way. (I Corinthians 9:22)
• Excellence honors God and inspires people. (Malachi 1:6-8)
• The church is to be led by those with the spiritual gift of leadership. (Romans 12:8)
• The development of healthy families. (Ephesians 5:22-28)
• People are saved to serve. (Ephesians 2:10)

 

Kids - Nursery & Preschool

What time is check-in for Preschool?  Top

Saturdays: 5:30 p.m. Service = Check-in begins at 5:00 p.m.

Sundays: 9:15 a.m. Service = Check-in begins at 8:50 a.m.

Sundays: 11:15 a.m. Service = Check-in begins at 10:50 a.m.

All three services have identical children's programming.

 

What nurseries are available for my child?  Top

Our classes are broken up to ensure age and developmental appropriateness. These classes may vary or be combined during a service to allow for proper attendance ratios to be met. The nurseries are broken down as follows:

• Birth to Crawlers - for newborns up to the time they begin walking
• Toddlers-Walkers up to age 2
• 2-year olds
• 3-year olds
• 4-year olds
• 5-year olds - includes children age 5 up to when they begin their kindergarten year.

 

Do you require parents to work in the nurseries?  Top

We always encourage parents to serve with us in our nurseries and classrooms once they attend Emmanuel on a regular basis. While we do our best to provide consistent workers in our nurseries, there are always times when people need to be absent, and we do call on our parents to fill those places as needed. Also, in order to allow our weekly workers to have a much-deserved break, we will use parents throughout the summer to assist in staffing the nurseries and children's classrooms.

 

What steps does Emmanuel take to screen its volunteers?  Top

Each volunteer at Emmanuel will complete a volunteer application and will meet with or be interviewed by a staff member in the area in which they wish to serve. Also, in the Children's Ministry, each of our volunteers must complete a background check and must read and agree to our Policy and Procedure Handbook. To view our Policy and Procedure Handbook, please click here.

 

What security procedures do you have in place to ensure my child's safety?  Top

We utilize a computerized check-in system which provides tags to help us identify you and your child and keep them safe. For more information, visit our Check-In area by clicking here. There are also security cameras in key areas of our All Stars Kids Complex and a member of our security team on duty during each of our services.

 

Is there a private area available for me to nurse my child?   Top

A Mother's Room has been created adjacent to the e-Cafe, where moms can nurse their babies in privacy and watch a live video feed of the adult service.

 

What if my child is having trouble adjusting to his or her surroundings?  Top

Parents and children can listen to the adult service live in the Family Room (adjacent to the Information Center, near the children's area entrance in the east side of the lobby). Comfortable seating is there for children who are uncomfortable in their age-appropriate classrooms, or who may be restless/noisy in the main service, and their parents.

 

Kids - Elementary (K-5th)

What times do the children meet?  Top

Saturdays: 5:30 p.m. (check-in begins at 5:00 p.m.)

Sundays: 9:15 a.m. (check-in begins at 8:50 a.m.)

Sundays: 11:15 a.m. (check-in begins at 10:50 a.m.)

All three services have identical children's programming.

 

What can my child expect during the service?  Top

Each of our children's services provides both a small group and large group atmosphere for the children. During large group, they will experience high energy worship, fun and exciting stories and skits, as well as games and other awesome activities. Small group is a time where they can build relationships with other students their age and learn about what's going on in their lives and how God is a part of it all.

 

How do you screen your volunteers who will be working with my child?   Top

Each volunteer at Emmanuel will complete a volunteer application and will meet with or be interviewed by a staff member in the area in which they wish to serve. Also, in the Children's Ministry, each of our volunteers must complete a background check and must read and agree to our Policy and Procedure Handbook. To view our Policy and Procedure Handbook, please click here.

 

What security procedures do you have in place to ensure my child's safety?   Top

We utilize a computerized check-in system which provides tags to help us identify you and your child and keep them safe. For more information, visit our Check-In area by clicking here. There are also security cameras in key areas of our All Stars Kids Complex and a member of our security team on duty during each of our services.

 

What curriculum do you use?  Top

We use a curriculum produced by the Rethink group called 2:52 Basics. 2:52 Basics teaches kids by utilizing three key truths evident throughout the Bible:

• I need to make the wise choice.
• I can trust God no matter what.
• I should treat others the way I want to be treated.

 

Are there resources that you can provide me to help throughout the week?  Top

We have monthly Family Fun Boxes that are available for parents at the Children's Check-In area. These boxes will have the resources for the entire month and will help you reinforce what is being taught on weekends. This is a great way for us to partner with you in the spiritual development of your child.

Each week, your elementary child will receive two handouts designed to guide you and your child through a deeper look at the Bible story and Bottom Line for the week:

• Our God Time card provides you with 4 devotional-type studies to be used as part of your child's Bible reading for that day. 
• The Refrigerator Door card is designed to be placed in a visible area and will help you start a discussion with your child and encourage dialogue with the family about what they are learning on the weekend.

We also encourage the use of a FamilyTimes virtue pack for families with elementary children. Each monthly virtue pack provides information that will parallel your child's classroom virtue for the month. It is designed to be used during family's natural rhythm times such as DriveTime, MealTime, BedTime, and MorningTime. Please visit www.familytimes.org for more information and to order your subscription today.

 

Kids - Security

What is the worker-to-child ratio for the Children's Ministry?  Top

Birth-Crawlers= up to 1:3
Toddlers=up to 1:4
2-year olds=1:5
3-year olds=1:6
4 & 5-year olds=1:8

 

What steps does Emmanuel take to screen its volunteers?  Top

Each volunteer at Emmanuel will complete a volunteer application and will meet with or be interviewed by a staff member in the area in which they wish to serve. Also, in the Children's Ministry, each of our volunteers must complete a background check and must read and agree to our Policy and Procedure Handbook. To view our Policy and Procedure Handbook, please click here.

 

What security procedures do you have in place to ensure my child's safety?  Top

We utilize a computerized check-in system which provides tags to help us identify you and your child and keep him or her safe. For more information, visit our Check-In area by clicking here. There are also security cameras in key areas of our All Stars Kids Complex and a member of our security team on duty during each of our services.

 

Students - Middle School

When does the Middle School meet?   Top

Our Middle School program meets on Sunday mornings from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

 

Where does the Middle School meet?   Top

The Middle School meets at The Fieldhouse, the building at the NE corner of the Emmanuel-Greenwood campus.

 

What can my student expect on Sunday mornings?   Top

They can expect excitement, powerful worship, and a talk that will hit them right where they are as a middle school student. 

 

Is there a place to buy snacks during class?   Top

Yes. The "Green Oasis" provides very reasonably-priced snacks.

 

What type of curriculum is used for the students?   Top

We build our own messages and usually pack them into a three- to four-week series so students can invite their friends and know ahead of time what the topics will be.

 

Are there activities throughout the month?   Top

"The Movement" Middle School usually has at least one activity per month. Some of the activities include "lock-ins," parties at other students' houses, and fun trips like our summer camps and snow tubing.

 

Students - High School

When does the High School meet?   Top

The High School ministry (called "The Movement") meets on Sunday evenings from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

 

Where does the High School meet?   Top

The Movement-High School meets at The Fieldhouse, located at the northeast corner of Emmanuel's campus.

 

What are the goals of the High School ministry?   Top

In connection with the goals of our church, the goal of the High School ministry is to see high school students come to know the love of Jesus, to grow in His grace, and to become a Christ-follower.

 

How many leaders help with the High School Ministry?  Top

There are about 15-20 adult leaders on any given Sunday night. There are many more in our cell group ministry, which is made up of 20 groups which are student-led and meet in homes all over the south side each week.

 

What can my student expect on a Sunday night?  Top

We have a competition-based Sunday night. Students are put into teams, and we usually start with some chaotic games. We have a great band that is passionate about leading "worship"--not merely entertaining. We usually do a set of 3-4 songs. Different leaders give talks that are impactful and practical to the lives of high school students. After the night is over, we usually go out as a group and grab something to eat together.

 

Is there a snack shop?  Top

Yes. Our "Green Oasis" is always stocked and ready to serve energy drinks, chips, and almost any kind of candy.

 

Do you have other outside activities?   Top

We try to have at least one activity per month. We have had great activities such as "The Duel," Disco bowling, as well as 4-6 various trips that are taken each year. 

 

What is a cell group?   Top

A cell group is a student-led group of peers who get together in homes and discuss topics that have to do with things students are dealing with on a daily basis. There is an adult leader who also attends the cell group, but the discussion is completely led by students.

 

Why does the High School participate in weekly cell groups?  Top

Our "Cell Groups" are actually all about reaching people who are "far from God." They are student-led and at different houses each week throughout the community. The cell groups are broken down by school district, and they are the backbone of our entire ministry.

 

Adults - Groups

Why does Emmanuel value small groups so much?  Top

Although we desire for everyone to participate in our weekend services, we recognize the "ABCs" of our group environments can't be accomplished in our worship services. The ABCs are:

• Accountability: Inviting others to challenge us in our priorities and relationships
• Biblical Teaching: Studying the Bible in a setting that allows questions and discussions
• Care: Supporting and praying for each other during the challenges of life

 

What types of group environments are available to me?  Top

We offer several different group environments for people on all levels of spiritual maturity and stages of life. To see a complete listing of groups available to you, please click here.

 

How do I sign up for a small group?  Top

Fill out a Connection Card during the weekend service or fill it out online here. Once we receive your information, we will contact you to find a group that will fit your needs and schedule. 

 

What if I try a group and don't like it?  Top

Although we try very hard to connect you with a group that will be a great fit for you, occasionally, your first group option isn't a match. That's why we offer a no-guilt "dating period," where you can visit a group and try it out before officially becoming members of that group.

 

I would like to lead a small group. What do I need to do?   Top

We develop apprentice leaders in each of our group environments. These apprentices are developed by an existing leader with the goal of eventually leading their own group. Ask your small group leader for more information.

 

Adults - Singles

I'm single. Is there anything for me outside of weekend services?   Top

We have an amazing young adult community called the well. the well meets on the first Thursday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at The Fieldhouse, (the large building on the northeast corner of the Emmanuel-Greenwood campus). This is a community for young adults (20-somethings) that will allow them to come together for the purpose of growing in their faith, holding each other accountable, and making a difference in the community of Greenwood and the surrounding area. Stick around each month for a Post-well activity! To find out more, please click here.

 

Adults - Missions

Does Emmanuel support missions?   Top

Yes. We have supported ministries that are local as well as global through our e-Global missions program. To see a complete list of our supported ministries as well as videos and pictures of previous mission trips, please click here.

 

How many missionaries are supported?   Top

A total of 12 foreign and local missionaries are supported through Emmanuel's general budget. To see a complete list, click here.

 

How can I support the ministries through E-Global?  Top

We have made it very easy for people to participate in supporting ministries locally and globally. All you have to do is contribute to the general fund of Emmanuel. We designate a portion of our income to our e-Global program for monthly support of ministries as well as mission trip scholarships and special projects as we are made aware of ministry needs. This shift in how you give to missions will allow EVERYONE to participate by simply giving to Emmanuel.