What to Expect at Oakland Christian UCC
We are excited you are here to learn more about Oakland and hope you gather with us soon!
We offer a welcoming and friendly environment for worship. On Sundays, Greeters will assist you in finding all that you need to feel comfortable as you get to know more about us, and continue on your spiritual journey.
If you are here at other times for an event we are hosting, or one of many community events that happen on our campus, please feel free to ask questions.
Sunday Gatherings
Adult Spiritual Formation Gatherings @10am
Friendship Class meets in the Godwin Educational Building. This class is structured as a lecture focusing on different scripture passages each week
Coffee & Company meets in the Community Life Center. This is an adult forum with a more open discussion facilitated. We vary between topic-based discussions and book studies.
Community Fellowship occurs in our Fellowship Hall just as you enter our main church entrance. Simply come, hang out, drink some coffee, eat a muffin, and grow by getting to know one another better.
*Additional classes and small groups offered throughout the year. Please check with our church office for current offerings. Currently, there is a Women’s Bible Study on Wednesday mornings.
Children’s Church @ 11am
Children’s church (Ages 5-11) begins after the children’s message in worship. Children are invited to a time of Bible study, learning about worship, craft/activity, and a snack.
Nursery Care is available from 10am – 12pm
Our Nursery Director, Rhonda Culpepper, has many years of experience with early childhood development and with instructing those entering the profession. We are fortunate to have her here. Our nursery care is more than just a watchful eye while parents are occupied. It is a safe, and nurturing environment that includes developmentally appropriate activities and lessons.
Worship Gatherings at 11:00 AM
The morning Worship Gatherings have been our traditional service since 1872. Each service is focused around a sermon prepared by our minister and supplemented by God’s gift of music. This service includes the Chancel Choir who lead all the hymns and sing an anthem selected by the music director. Expect awesome music and an inspirational message with a family atmosphere. Early in our Worship Gatherings, a short children’s message is given and the children are invited to exit the sanctuary after the message and attend Children’s Church ages 5 to 10 years.
Online Sunday Worship Gatherings are released on the Oakland Christian Church UCC YouTube channel.
Attire
In worshipping with us you are likely to find dresses, suits and ties as well as jeans, t-shirts and shorts. What you can be certain of is that you are welcome to join us in the attire which feels comfortable for you.
Parking
We have ample parking available surrounding our church. You will be able to easily find our front entrance.
Timing
Our Worship Services typically last about an hour, but can run a little longer on special celebration Sundays. We recommend arriving early to find a seat you’re comfortable in and meet a few folks before service begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do youth participate in the life of the church?
A: We have a monthly “Friday Friends” youth gathering full of story, crafts, food, and fun! We periodically have a “Storytime & Cereal Bar” before worship on Sunday mornings. During worship there is a children’s message, and children, ages 5-12, are then invited to Children’s Church. We regularly have multi-generational outings. Some of our youth even participate in “Coffee & Company.” Each Summer we send multiple youth to Johns River Valley Camp. There’s always more going on than just this list. With your ideas and energy we believe that can continue to evolve and grow.
Q: Do you provide transportation to your church service?
A: We provide bus transportation to and from Lake Prince Woods Community each Sunday.
Q: Is your church available for community use?
A: Yes, our building is used often by the community for a variety of purposes. From baby showers, to civic groups, to piano recitals, and more. Our Community Life Center really is a hub of activity for our community. However, we have others spaces that are open to use/rental as well.
Q: Does everyone have the same beliefs at your church?
A: Absolutely not! However, we do share much in common. Like our desire to grow closer to God, to live out our Statement of Purpose, and our love of a good church potluck!
Q: What is The United Church of Christ?
A: Here’s the website. Check it out! If you have more questions, ask our Pastor! He’d love to chat about it.