We use the name the encounter to show our true intent. While there are other churches making changes attempting to engage our community and changing culture; our highest value is that people experience God personally… not just a band, good communication, light show, etc. Our plan is for people to connect and encounter God in a unique and personal way. The actual name the encounter is exactly what we desire each individual to experience!

If you identify w/ the statement: "I've given up on church but not on God…", then we may be your place. We love our casual atmosphere. We value relationships.  We enjoy connecting w/ God thru music, challenging communication, and we love to laugh! We have a ‘no strings attached’ environment. Whatever level of spiritual interest you are, we look to meet you there!

It got your attention, didn't it?  That's why!

Many people want to 'attend church', few want to 'be the church!' It's our money Sunday! It's time for us to put our money where our mouth is… We want to be part of our community, we wish to serve. Therefore it is important enough for us that we set aside our meeting to simply act! Come join us and see!

"I like the encounter because everyone involved is very warm and welcoming.  At the encounter Everyone makes a point to say hi or welcome you. They want to get to know you on more than just, 'I see you 4 times a month' basis. I like the open door feeling, even if you have never been to church."

"I never really went to church, but a few times in my life. the encounter makes me feel better and my heart full. I actually feel great all week long. I look forward to Sundays! The Pastor doesn't ram religion down my throat. When he reads a passage, he then turns around and relates it to our life situation. He is a relaxed friendly Pastor. Which I truly enjoy! The other churches are strict, boring, to much old school, they don't relate to today's life."

"The Encounter is not like the traditional church with pomp and stance (so to speak). It is a very contemporary church. I left the traditional churches, because of the judgmental, strict, no-nonsense atmosphere. I grew up in this atmosphere as a child and it made me hate church and everything related to it."

"the encounter doesn't make you feel small or unimportant. People try to connect with you to help you navigate your way through what you are looking for. the encounter is very music oriented and that's my favorite reason for coming. This church has a little bit of everything for all different types of people. the encounter stands out from most church's because of the love and passion and kindness they have for people, community, and God. They will always make you feel at home and that you are a part of their family."

"The Fellowship and Worship are first. We personally need to belong to a community of faith that includes a congregation in Christ who are trying to live out the gospel just like we are. I need help to face the issues of life and faith as presented through the teachings of the Bible. This I know will take TIME for me. I know very little of the bible. However I do believe GOD is here and He is our creator.  Sometimes we need a conscious break from work, family problems, and self interests in order to concentrate on GOD. We praise GOD, we sing, we laugh, we pray, we cry, we listen, we hear, we love, we care, we play, we eat. (Geez ALL that wrapped in a Morning!) The people at church have become good friends and my extended family all rolled into one. ;0)"

"My main reason for coming back -- I am at peace here."

"Everyone looks out for each other and that is why I come back every Sunday, and get involved. I can't think of anywhere else I'd rather be on Sunday or any other day of the week."

• Good fellowship.
• Feeling like you belong to a Community.
• The Pastor is awesome!
• The congregation is small enough so everyone knows your name. However becoming larger is a good things also.
• Great direction for our youth keeping the church in touch with the younger crowd.
• It feels like family.
• The good music that is up to date but still points to Jesus.
• I like that I am comfortable and that you can come to church as is.
• Like my Daddy always said; "GOD is with you, know matter where you are and no matter what you wear ~~ he still loves YOU."

"I love the music and songs. It isn't necessarily what type of church it is, but also what the pastor, minister, etc. is like. I like the sermons. I like messages with humor and intelligence. I like the laid-back attitude of the church."