The Church Hopper

As I was preparing for my first church hopping experience I went to where everyone goes for answers… google!

After searching for some time I noticed that there did not seem to be a completed list of churches in the Danville area. This caused me to pause, can I actually do this? How can I visit all the churches without an actual list to go by? After some thought I decided to just jump in and GO without too much of a plan. (Those that know me – know that is not like me)

On February 28, 2022 I did what I only thought people in the olden days did… I walked to church. What better church to start with than the one that I could see from my front porch!

At 10:57am I walked into South Danville Church of Christ as a first time visitor. Upon opening the doors I saw a man in the pulpit and a hand-full of members that all seemed equally surprised to see me walk in. An older gentleman got up and greeted me with a bulletin and communion elements. I sat down in a pew and hoped that I was not sitting in anyone’s spot. The couples around me greeted me and made me feel welcomed.

I checked out their bulletin until the service actually started. Their bulletin had the order of worship, prayer list, upcoming meetings, announcements, and a break down of what the Church of Christ is. That was very helpful as I had never attended a Church of Christ before.

The service started with announcements and four hymns that we all sang sitting down – until the last verse of the last hymn in which we all stood. Next we would all partake in communion. (I did find out after the service that they take communion each Sunday)

The sermon was given by one of the church elders and almost seemed like a college lecture. (Apparently the elders are the head of the church and not the pastor, per my conversation with one of the elders after the service) He was very knowledgeable about Paul and his missionary journey and explained at length the routes that he sailed. There was humor in the message which was refreshing from what I had expected.

The service concluded with a final hymn and benediction.

As I left each member greeted me and thanked me from coming. They all kinda gathered around me to hear a little about myself and answer the few questions that I had. I walked back home thankful for such a great first church hopping experience and excited for next week!

Quick church details for referance:

Name: South Danville Church of Christ

Attendance: around 15 people

Denomination: The Church of Christ states that they are not a denomination, but the church that Jesus Christ founded himself.

Facebook/Website: no local church website or facebook page

Signage: The service time was accurate on the church sign