Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of Hurstbourne Christian Church?
Our church first began meeting in 1967 inside the cozy Hurstbourne home of our first minister, Rev. Bill Schiporst. After a few years of gathering, our first building at our current location was constructed in 1970. Following that, our current sanctuary was built in 1984 to accommodate our growing congregation, and the family room, which serves as a space for fellowship, was created in 2010. We take pride in being a friendly and welcoming faith community. No matter where you find yourself on your unique journey with Christ, we would love to welcome you into our church family.
What denomination is Hurstbourne Christian Church?
We are proud to identify as Disciples of Christ, a meaningful movement that was founded in 1801 right here in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. A fun fact that many may not know is that three different United States presidents were members of Disciples of Christ churches during their lives!
I grew up in a different denomination. Will I be accepted?
Of course! The Disciples of Christ movement was founded with the mission of promoting wholeness and unity in a fragmented and often divided world. As part of the one body of Christ, we believe that ALL individuals are welcome to join us. At Hurstbourne Christian Church, we are proud to accept and embrace ALL Christian beliefs and backgrounds. Our community includes many members who have grown up in various traditions, including Catholic, Baptist, and numerous other denominations. If you take a moment to ask around, you will find a rich tapestry of faith experiences among us!
I was baptized at another church. Do I have to be re-baptized to be a member?
Nope! We are pleased to inform you that we accept all Christian baptisms, regardless of the denomination or specific tradition in which they were performed. This inclusivity reflects our commitment to the broader Christian community and the importance of baptism as a significant step in one's faith journey.
How do I become a member?
We would be delighted to have you join our community! Come forward any Sunday during our Call to Discipleship, and you can officially become a member that day. If you have any questions, concerns, or hesitations, please feel free to talk to Rev. Ben Reece after the service, or you can reach out to him at 502-425-0220 or ben@hchristianchurch.com.
We look forward to welcoming you!
What to expect…
When you come to Hurstbourne Christian Church for a worship service, you can expect to meet many wonderful people who are genuinely eager to make you feel completely welcome and at home in a warm environment. The service typically lasts around 40 to 50 minutes. It includes heartfelt worship through singing uplifting music, engaging in sincere prayer, reading scripture that inspires reflection, partaking in communion, and listening to preaching that encourages spiritual growth.
You will observe diverse attendees dressed in everything from ties and jackets to polo shirts, shorts, and casual T-shirts, reflecting the community’s inclusivity. Be prepared to be accepted and embraced no matter what you choose to wear, as we value individuality and personal expression. At Hurstbourne Christian Church, ALL truly means ALL! We welcome EVERYONE into our community regardless of where you are on your spiritual journey, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, race, or ethnicity, ensuring a rich tapestry of faith and fellowship.
Communion is an essential and deeply meaningful part of our worship service and is celebrated during our weekly gatherings with reverence and joy. Our communion is open to all who are sincere followers of Jesus Christ, inviting everyone to participate in this sacred experience of unity and reflection.
Many families choose to keep their children in the worship service, fostering a sense of community and participation. However, we also provide a dedicated cry room and a nurturing nursery staffed with caring adults for those who may need it.
We usually gather between 85 and 100 attendees on a Sunday morning. However, we have experienced increased participation, having welcomed as many as 185 individuals on several occasions! Additionally, for those who wish to join us in worship from afar or who may not be able to attend in person, a live video feed is available on our Facebook page.
The music we share is a delightful mixture of old and new selections. We sing everything from time-honored hymns cherished through generations to contemporary praise and worship songs, all beautifully accompanied by the piano and organ. Our services feature diverse musical presentations, including talented soloists, harmonious duets, our dedicated choir, small ensembles, skilled instrumentalists, and a string quartet that performs on the third Sunday of each month. Come prepared to join us in singing heartfelt praises to our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!
Our Mission
Making Disciples who know Jesus, love God, serve others, and impact our community for good.
Our Vision
A Christ-centered community serving others with a place for all. (All Means All)
Our Pillars
Know Jesus through Biblical study and Christian Educational events
Serve others both as a community of faith in church-wide events and as individual volunteers
Welcome ALL of God’s children to our church; when we say ALL, we mean ALL!
Our Statement of Faith
This statement of faith is the opening paragraph in the Preamble to the Design of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). It is used by many Disciples congregations in as an affirmation of the faith of the church throughout the ages – not as a “test of fellowship,” but as a statement of faith that identifies the Disciples’ commitment to and place within the universal and ecumenical church.
As members of the Christian Church,
We confess that Jesus is the Christ,
the Son of the living God,
and proclaim him Lord and Savior of the world.
In Christ’s name and by his grace
we accept our mission of witness
and service to all people.
We rejoice in God,
maker of heaven and earth,
and in God’s covenant of love
which binds us to God and to one another.
Through baptism into Christ
we enter into newness of life
and are made one with the whole people of God.
In the communion of the Holy Spirit
we are joined together in discipleship
and in obedience to Christ.
At the Table of the Lord
we celebrate with thanksgiving
the saving acts and presence of Christ.
Within the universal church
we receive the gift of ministry
and the light of scripture.
In the bonds of Christian faith
we yield ourselves to God
that we may serve the One
whose kingdom has no end.
Blessing, glory, and honor
be to God forever. Amen.