Questions
Question: What is Lent?
Answer: Lent is the 40 day period between Ash Wednesday and Palm Sunday, and is traditionally a period of prayer and fasting as a Christian prepares for the period of Holy Week.
Some Christians decide to voluntarily give up certain foods, or fast entirely on certain days, remembering Jesus' 40 days in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11, Mark 1:12, Luke 4:1-13) during which He fasted (abstained from eating) and was tempted by Satan. Other Christians prefer not to give up foods, but to consciously make an effort to do something good for others every day.
Lent finishes on Palm Sunday when Jesus entered into Jerusalem on a donkey, starting the events of Holy Week (driving out the moneychangers, preaching in the Temple, the Last Supper and His crucifixion).
Question: What is a Christian?
Answer: A Christian is a person who believes that Jesus is the Son of God and has decided to follow His teachings.
Christians believe that Jesus Christ is the Messiah (Jewish for Anointed One) that was prophecied about in the Jewish Scriptures - the Old Testament. He died on a cross to take the punishment that individuals deserve for the wrongs that they've done.
Having paid the price, then Christians believe they are forgiven by God if they simply acknowledge they have made mistakes, ask God for forgiveness and try to live the rest of their lives in a way pleasing to God. Christians acknowledge that they cannot "get right" with God by anything they do, but only through believing in Jesus and that He took the punishment for every wrong they've ever done when He hung on the cross.
Question: What is the Bible?
Answer: The Bible is a collection of ancient writings, revealing how God has shown Himself to people throughout history. It is divided into two sections, called Testaments. The Old Testament is largely the story of the the Jewish people and the historical Kingdom of Israel, as well as their longing for the promised Messiah (Anointed One). The New Testament focuses on Jesus - the Messiah and Son of God - and the history of the early church.
Question: What is Back to Church Sunday?
Answer: Back to Church Sunday is an event taking place in churches throughout the UK, encouraging those who are interested in Christianity to come along and see what it's all about.
Our 2009 Back to Church Sunday service will take place on 25th October 2009. The service will include the dedication of the new chairs and building work. It will be very friendly and informal - just come as you are!
Question: Why is going to church important?
Answer: Church attendance does not make anyone a Christian, or guarantee a place in Heaven. The purpose of going to church is to learn more about God; to grow spiritually; to take time out from the pressures of modern life and spend time with our Heavenly Father, and to join in fellowship with other believers. While it is possible to be a Christian on your own, it makes sense to spend time with other believers to share your experiences and encourage each other.
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