Why Baptist?
Central Baptist Church, Corning , New york is a Baptist church by conviction and principle, not by affiliation. This means that we believe the basic Bible teachings for which Baptists have historically stood. As Baptists, we believe the following: the King James Bible is our sole authority for all matters of faith and practice. The church should be autonomous or self-governing. The believer does not need a priest, other than Jesus Christ, to come boldly to God. Every Christian has equal access to God personally. God's Word gives us two ordinances for the church - baptism and the Lord's supper. Each person is individually responsible for his decision to accept Christ. The separation of church and state is biblical. The believer is eternally secure and cannot lose their salvation. There are two biblical offices in the church - pastors and deacons.
What does it mean to be an independent fundamental church?
As an Independent Baptist church, we are not affiliated with any particular Baptist denomination or ruling body. We are self-governing and because of this, we can support our own missionaries, select our own leaders, and support institutions that believe as we believe. In short, our church answers to Jesus Christ rather than a denominational body.
How can I be involved in a ministry?
Once you're a member, there are several areas of ministry involvement at Central Baptist Church, Corning, NY. Our people serve through volunteer projects such as maintenance and office related projects, choir, children's ministries, fellowship team, and our widow's mite ministry. Feel free to contact the church office if you would like to volunteer your time in any of these areas. If you are interested in teaching, helping, singing, or other visible and public positions of leadership; an appointment must be set with the Pastor.
What is required for membership?
To be a member of Central Baptist Church, you must first give evidence of salvation and be either baptized here at Central Baptist Church or have been baptized in a Baptist church of like-faith and practice. Additionally, for the protection and unity of our church, you must agree with our Articles of Faith and Constitution and By-laws.
What does this church do to help the widows?
We have a team of men and women who volunteer their time for our Widows Mite ministry, which allows our widows to contact the church when they have a particular need or task that they need assistance with.
How is the leadership of the church structured?
Ultimately, Christ is the Head of this church. On a daily basis, Central Baptist is primarily led by the pastor. Pastor works through prayer and decision- making to follow the leading of the Lord for our church ministry. Also, our deacons serve as a church-elected group that meets with the pastor as he sees fit to review and discuss matters of church importance. This gives a high level of accountability, as we follow God's leading for this church.
What does it mean to be non-charismatic?
This simply means that we are not a part of the modern-day charismatic movement. We do not practice speaking in tongues, faith healing, sensationalism, or believe in extra-biblical revelation (God revealing Himself outside of the Bible). While there are many people who prefer to worship in this way, we choose to worship in ways that we feel to be consistent with God's Word and His plan for the New Testament Church.
What is the philosophy about financial giving?
We have never practiced pressure techniques or fundraising schemes. Rather, we choose to occasionally preach and teach what God's Word says about Christian stewardship and giving. How you respond to that teaching is a heart issue between you and the Lord. The only time you will be contacted about your giving is either when you request it, or when you receive our annual charitable contributions summary.
What should I expect when I visit?
Here at Central Baptist Church, Corning, NY, we are thrilled to have guests visiting in most every service. As soon as you walk through the doors, we believe you will find what so many people love about Central Baptist Church--a down-to-earth and genuinely friendly environment. We will usually begin every service by making sure that each guest receives an information packet about our church. During the services themselves, you can expect to enjoy clear, God-honoring music and fervent, practical preaching. You might be wondering, "What should I wear when visiting Central Baptist Church?" While we never apologize for encouraging people to "dress their best", you will find people from
all walks of life and backgrounds who feel very much at home at Central Baptist Church.
Where do I take my children?
Starting with excellent nurseries, there is something for every age. At every service there are safe, clean, and competently staffed nurseries for children three years old and under. For children four years old through sixth grade there are fun, friendly, and Bible-centered classes on Sunday mornings and our AWANA program on Wednesday nights. These classes are staffed with trained, friendly, and well-qualified teachers and helpers who will make church exciting and memorable for your child. We'd be thrilled to help you find the appropriate nursery, classes, and services for every person in your family. Our greeters and ushers are located around church as well as in foyer and will gladly help direct and even escort you to the right place.
Am I Expected to Participate in the Offering?
No. We don't invite you as our guest to Central Baptist Church for your offering. We want our service to be a blessing to you. We hope you will find in this place an inviting family spirit, truth from God's Word, and a place where you can learn and grow in God's grace. Please don't feel any obligation to participate in the offering as a guest.
What if I still want to know more?
Feel free to explore our website -- you'll find additional information about the church's history, our pastors, our purpose, services, ministries, and more! Also, feel free to contact any of our church staff members with your questions. Again, we are thrilled you have chosen to visit our website. We would love to meet you in person and the chance to minister to you!
