First Christian Church
Ames IA

We are a people of God on a path of freedom, learning and love. We question, think, and listen. We respect other faiths. We welcome new people. We are open to new ideas. We care about our community. We care about creation. We are passionate about making our community and world a better place. We are a people of God who

understand that God is bigger than any concept we have. We can never fully know God, but we can live into the mystery and experience moments of knowing and insight and grace. think the questions are as important as the answers. believe faith is a process, a journey that is on-going.

We follow Jesus

who did not start a religion but launched a movement of extravagant, inclusive, and reconciling love. who did not require belief in specific doctrines, but rather, said, “Come, follow me.” who said the whole of the law and prophets can be summarized by this, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:37-40)

Values and Vision

Core Values:

Genuinely accept, welcome and love everyone as Jesus did. Connect people to God and to one another. Cultivate an environment where people grow in faith and discipleship. Celebrate everyone’s gifts for ministry and encourage people as leaders. Minister in the community with God’s healing love.

Vision:

First Christian Church Will Be A Community Of Connection:

To God who brings hope and possibility, abundance and grace To the way of Jesus that brings deeper meaning and purpose To other people to build positive, life-enhancing relationships To resources that will promote healing and wholeness in all aspects of life To other organizations with a similar vision and purpose

 

Question: What time is worship?

Answer: Regular Sunday Schedule:

Learning Time – 9:15 a.m.
Worship – 10:30 a.m.

Summer Schedule:
Worship – 9:30 a.m.

Question: How do I find the church?

Answer: We are located near downtown Ames on the corner of 6th St. and Clark Ave. We are directly across from City Hall on 6th St., and across from Fareway Grocery Store on Clark Ave.

Question: Where do I park my car?

Answer: Our parking lot is on the west side of the building off 6th St. On Sundays you may also park in the lot across Clark Ave. east of the building.

Question: Where do I park my bicycle?

Answer: Bicycles can be locked on the rack next to the southwest corner of the building off of 6th st.

Question: What door do I go in?

Answer: On Sunday morning, please enter the “front” door that faces Clark Ave. or the “back” door that faces the parking lot on the west side of the building. On weekdays, the “back” or west door off the church parking lot is always the best. The “front” Clark St. door leads directly into the sanctuary.

The “back” parking lot door leads into an entry where there is an elevator and stairs. To get to the sanctuary, go upstairs to the 1st floor, through the double doors and turn right. At the first opportunity, turn left, go past the drinking fountain, down a few stairs (or take the lift). The single door on the left will open up to the front of the sanctuary. Bulletins are located on the front pew for your convenience.

Question: Is there a dress code?

Answer: We say, “Come as you are… you belong!” We care more about you than what you wear. Wear what makes you comfortable.

Question: What can I expect when I arrive?

Answer: When you arrive on Sunday morning for worship, you can expect to be greeted by members and friends of the church. You may sit wherever you are most comfortable. After a general greeting from the pastor or other leader (don’t worry, we don’t make visitors stand up or be introduced, etc.), we greet one another. Music calls us back to our seats and worship begins, often with a responsive call to worship and opening song or hymn. During worship there will be singing, praying, scripture, a moment for children, a message, offering and communion. Music at First Christian varies from more traditional hymns to music from around the world, to contemporary songs. We have an organ and piano, but you may also hear a djembe (African drum) or guitar or other instruments as well. You are also invited and welcome to attend classes (for all ages) during our learning time from 9:15-10:15am.

Question: Is there a nursery for my children?

Answer: Yes. Young children receive loving care. Parents are given a silent pager for contact should they be needed.

Question: What about my children?

Answer: We have classes Sunday morning from 9:15 – 10:15am for children and adults of all ages. During worship there is a “Children’s Time” allowing children to hear the message of the day in ways they can understand.

Question: Is your church accessible?

Answer: Yes. We have an elevator just inside the west entry that goes to the basement, and 1st floor, and a lift from the 1st floor to the sanctuary level. There is also a ramp on the southeast side of the building for entry to the sanctuary from Clark Ave. on the east.

Question: How’s the coffee?

Answer: At First Christian Church we put our faith into action by using fairly traded coffee and tea through Equal Exchange and trying to use ceramic mugs rather than disposable whenever possible. For more information go to: http://www.equalexchange.coop/doc/

Question: Are vegetarians welcome?

Answer: Yes! There is always a vegetarian option at church-related meals, including our yearly Community-Wide Thanksgiving Dinner.

Question: Is First Christian Church part of a denomination?

Answer: First Christian Church is a congregation within the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the United States and Canada. For more information about Disciples go to www.disciples.org

Question: Can I participate in communion?

Answer: We celebrate communion each Sunday. All are welcome at Christ’s table where the wall of human hostility is broken down in God’s uniting love.

Question: Do you offer a gluten-free communion alternative?

Answer: Yes.

Question: When is the church office open?

Answer: Generally, the church office is open 9-2, Monday through Thursday. From time to time there are exceptions, so you may want to call ahead 232-5766. The office is located on the 1st floor. From the west parking lot entry go up to the first floor, go through the double doorway and turn right. You’ll see the church office past the staircase on the left.
 

http://www.fccames.org  

 

Our parking lot is on the west side of the building off 6th St. On Sundays you may also park in the lot across Clark Ave. east of the building.



Bicycles can be locked on the rack next to the southwest corner of the building off of 6th st.  

We have an elevator just inside the west entry that goes to the basement, and 1st floor, and a lift from the 1st floor to the sanctuary level. There is also a ramp on the southeast side of the building for entry to the sanctuary from Clark Ave. on the east.