Asking yourself what you want from a church is a great place to start. Are you looking for a small intimate environment, large and resourceful, Holy Ghost shouting, or casual and laid-back? Try to gain a sense of the environment that you and your family will develop the best. To help find the church God wants for you, consider asking interviewing the church prior to joining. A little upfront information gathering can save you from many regrets later. Here are some questions to help you design a foundation for your conversations:

Church Interview Questions:

• What denomination is this church and why? > Look for a solid explanation of the churches fundamental principles.
• Does this church believe in the Trinity (God/Jesus/Holy Spirit)? > Believe it or not, some don't. Make certain before you invest yourself too deep.
• Does this church believe Jesus died for our sins and was ressurected on the 3rd day? > This will identify a true Christian church.
• How large is the membership (members on file and regular attendees)? > Big numbers can be a positive or negative depending on the level of organization within the church.
• How long has the church been in existance? 
• What is the vision for the church? > Make sure this can be clearly communicated and evaluate how it aligns with your own vision.
• What style is the music? (Contemporary Christian, Gospel etc...)?
• Does the church have annual events? > How active is the church and can it accomodate your family's needs.
• What are your list of ministries (Men's, Women's childrens etc...)? > What do they have to offer you and your family for growth and development.
• How active are these ministries? Do you have retreats, activities etc...?
• Do you have designated Elders, Deacons, Deaconesses and what are their roles? > Is there a clear level of organization?
• Youth Department: What is the criteria for adult participation to teach? Scholarship programs
• What does the church do for the community (outside of the church walls)?
• Does the church do mission trips to other countries? How often and where?
• How much of church finances go to  the community?
• Does the church itself tithe to a larger body?
• Who is the covering body for the church (who does the church report too)?
• Does the Pastor report to the Church Board or does the Board report to the Pastor in an advisory capacity?
• Who is the Pastor's pastor?
• How is the Pastor's Pay determined and paid out?
• What are the rules and standards for members?

Another area to inquire is Church Finances:

• How strong are the church finances?
• Who determines how money is spent?
• How are the checks and balances managed?
• Do you have a Stewardship program and how is it managed?
• How is financial information communicated to the body?
• Are the financial records open or closed? 
• What is the size of the church debt?
• How are the checks and balances designed?

Additional Information

Stay in prayer that God leads you to the right place for the season in your life. Remember the church itself (the 4 walls) is not God. Keeping your relationship with him is the most important piece of your walk. However, a church home will allow you to fellowship with like Christians and the trained theology leaders can help you gain an understanding of the bible that you may not be able to obtain on your own. Also a church home will establish a level of accountability that can help you stay on God's path. You and your family will greatly benefit from a common shared positive environment.

Church Directory

BAY AREA

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SACRAMENTO

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ALL

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