Attending church: what’s in it for me?

Author

 Elder Jim Fairchild

A vibrant, Christ‑centered community like Topeka Community of Christ offers far more than a Sunday routine; it offers purpose, belonging and a chance to participate in Christ’s mission of compassion, justice and peace.

​This blog post explores what you can genuinely gain from attending church, drawing on the values and ministries of Topeka Community of Christ.

  A Place to Discover Purpose

God intends Christian faith to be lived in companionship with Jesus Christ and with other disciples in service to the world.  A church is not a building, projects or programs.  It’s people! The church of Jesus Christ is made of all those who respond to Jesus’ call.

Topeka Community of Christ emphasizes helping people to “discover your purpose and pursue Christ’s Mission of compassion, justice and peace”.
 
That means church isn’t just a place to sit, it’s a place to grow.

You gain:

1.  A clearer sense of who God is calling you to be
2. Opportunities to serve in ways that match your gifts
3. A mission bigger than yourself

A Community That Welcomes Everyone

We declare our belief that “all are called according to the gifts of God to them.” We therefore acknowledge and affirm human diversity by creating a spirit of openness and peace within our congregations where all persons may find acceptance and the opportunity to share their giftedness.

This congregation is intentional about being a church “where the ministry of all people, including children and youth,” is encouraged.
​
You don’t have to fit a mold. You don’t have to have all the answers. You don’t even have to already believe everything.

​You gain:

1. A supportive, intergenerational community
2. A safe place to explore faith
3. People who care about your story

Worship That Centers on Jesus Christ

As members of Community of Christ, we are bound together with Christians in every place and in every time by our confession of Jesus Christ, Son of the Living God, author of our salvation, and head of the church.
 
As followers of Jesus Christ, it is important to understand the significance of the call to be his disciples. By accepting this invitation, we are called to emulate his life and ministry, which was rooted in love, compassion, and justice.

Topeka Community of Christ describes itself as “a church where the gospel of Jesus Christ is the focus of worship, learning, caring and mission."

Our Worship Ministry

You gain:

1. Weekly spiritual grounding
2. Encouragement for the week ahead
3. A chance to reconnect with God in a busy world
4. Worship with us Sunday at 10:45 AM

A Mission That Changes Lives

It is time for us to awaken from our slumber and act. The world around us is in chaos and turmoil, and it is only through the liberating truths of the gospel that we can find peace and salvation.

“You who are my disciples must be found continuing in the forefront of those organizations and movements which are recognizing the worth of persons and are committed to bringing the ministry of my Son to bear on their lives.”  D&C 151:9

Being a disciple of Christ means actively living out his teachings and spreading his message of love and compassion to others. Let us continue to serve and uplift those around us, and bring the ministry of Jesus to bear on their lives.

The congregation’s mission echoes the global Community of Christ identity:
“We proclaim Jesus Christ and promote communities of joy, hope, love, and peace.” 

Our Mission Activities

You gain:

1. A chance to make a difference locally and globally
   
2. Opportunities to serve through ministries that matter
   
3. A faith that moves beyond belief into action

 A Non‑Pressuring, Open Invitation

“Jesus Christ, the embodiment of God’s shalom, invites all people to come and receive divine peace in the midst of the difficult questions and struggles of life. Follow Christ in the way that leads to God’s peace and discover the blessings of all of the dimensions of salvation.”  D&C 163:2a

One of the most refreshing things about Topeka Community of Christ is its approach:
“We do not proselytize anyone… but invite all who are seeking to come and see what God can do in their lives.” 

You gain:

1. Freedom to explore faith at your own pace
2. A welcoming environment without pressure
3. Space to grow spiritually in authentic ways

​So… What’s in It for You?

Attending church at Topeka Community of Christ offers: 

1. Purpose
2. Belonging
3. Spiritual grounding
4. Friendship
5. ​Opportunities to serve
6. ​A Christ‑centered mission that transforms lives

If you’re searching for a faith community, or simply curious, the Topeka Community of Christ congregation invites you to come and see what God might be doing in your life as a member of our faith community.