The name "The Way Church" is deeply rooted in both Scripture and our mission to guide people to the transformative path of following Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, early Christians were often referred to as followers of "the Way" (Acts 9:2, 19:9, 19:23, 24:14), a term that encapsulated their commitment to living according to the teachings and example of Jesus, who declared Himself "the way, the truth, and the life" (John 14:6). By choosing this name, we aim to reclaim and embody this ancient, biblical identity, emphasizing that Jesus is the singular path to salvation and a life of purpose. our mission is to "reach those in our community with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ, introducing them to the Way of Christ." The name reflects our vision (Article I, Section 1.3) to be a community that not only introduces people to Jesus but also walks alongside them as they grow into mature disciples who live out His teachings, impacting their families, community, and the world. "The Way" signifies a journey of faith, a lifestyle of obedience, and a call to share the Gospel, inviting all to discover the abundant life found in Christ alone.
The Way Church is distinct in several ways, as rooted in our Bylaws:
Biblical Authority: We uphold the Bible as the infallible, authoritative Word of God, using a literal, grammatical-historical interpretation to guide all matters of faith and life.
Doctrinal Clarity: We hold specific stances on issues like marriage (exclusively one man and one woman), gender (binary, based on biological sex), and rejection of ideologies like "woke" culture or DEI initiatives that conflict with Scripture. This sets us apart from churches with more progressive or ambiguous positions.
Discipleship Focus: Our vision emphasizes growing mature disciples who live out the Way of Christ, impacting their spheres of influence.
Governance: Our elder-led model, with congregational input, balances strong spiritual leadership with member participation, ensuring accountability and alignment with our Core Beliefs.
The Teaching Pastor at The Way Church serves as the primary spiritual leader of the congregation, fulfilling the responsibilities typically associated with a head pastor, such as preaching, teaching, providing pastoral care, and casting vision for the Church’s mission. As outlined in Article IV, Section 4.5 of our Bylaws, the Teaching Pastor is a member of the Board of Directors (Elders) and plays a central role in guiding the congregation to walk in the Way of Christ. Their duties include regularly preaching biblically grounded sermons that emphasize the Way of Christ and the Church’s Core Beliefs, offering spiritual counsel and care in collaboration with other elders, overseeing staff and ministries, representing the Church in the community, and mentoring emerging leaders to uphold our doctrinal standards. However, the title "Teaching Pastor" reflects our theological conviction that Jesus Christ is the true head of the Church (Ephesians 1:22-23, Colossians 1:18). By avoiding the term "head pastor," we underscore that no individual holds ultimate authority; rather, the Teaching Pastor leads as a servant under Christ’s lordship, working collaboratively with the Board of Directors as a team to ensure the Church remains faithful to its mission and doctrinal commitments. This structure promotes accountability, as the Teaching Pastor is accountable to the Board and abstains from voting on matters related to their own employment or compensation, ensuring decisions reflect the collective discernment of the elders and, where applicable, the congregation. The Teaching Pastor’s role is thus both authoritative and humble, pointing the congregation to Christ as the ultimate Shepherd and Head.
At The Way Church, our worship services are designed to glorify God, edify believers, and invite all to encounter the life-changing message of Jesus Christ, as reflected in our mission and vision (Article I, Sections 1.2 and 1.3). When you attend a service, you can expect a warm, welcoming environment where the focus is on worshiping God in spirit and truth (John 4:24). The service typically includes several key elements:
Biblically Grounded Preaching: The Teaching Pastor or another elder delivers a sermon rooted in Scripture, emphasizing the Way of Christ and our Core Beliefs (Article II, Section 2.1). Sermons are designed to challenge and encourage you to grow in faith, apply biblical truths to daily life, and deepen your relationship with Jesus.
Worship through Music: We engage in congregational singing, led by a worship team, featuring a blend of contemporary Christian songs and traditional hymns that exalt God and reflect our doctrinal commitments. The music is chosen to foster heartfelt worship and prepare the congregation for the teaching of God’s Word.
Prayer: Corporate and individual prayer is a central component, aligning with our belief in God the Father’s active involvement in our lives (Article II, Section 2.1). Expect moments of guided prayer for the church, community, and personal needs, as well as opportunities to receive prayer from elders or ministry leaders.
Fellowship and Community: Our services emphasize building a community of believers who walk in the Way (Article I, Section 1.3). Before or after the service, you’ll have opportunities to connect with others through greetings, conversations, or organized fellowship times, fostering relationships that support spiritual growth.
Observance of Ordinances: On designated Sundays, we celebrate the Lord’s Supper, reflecting on Christ’s atoning sacrifice, and perform baptisms by immersion for those publicly professing faith, as outlined in our beliefs about the local church (Article II, Section 2.1).
Opportunities for Engagement: Announcements and invitations to participate in ministries, small groups, or service opportunities are shared, encouraging you to join in the Church’s mission to reach the community and grow as a disciple (Article I, Section 1.2).
Welcoming Atmosphere: Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular attendee, our members and leaders strive to make you feel included, reflecting our commitment to treating all with dignity as God’s image-bearers (Article II, Section 2.2). You may be greeted by members or invited to a visitor’s welcome area to learn more about the Church.
Services typically last about 60–90 minutes and are structured to balance reverence for God with accessibility for newcomers. Our goal is to create an environment where you can encounter God, grow in faith, and connect with a community dedicated to following the Way of Christ. If you’re new, feel free to ask questions or connect with a leader to learn how you can get involved!