Teaching Programme

Worship and Breaking of Bread (Communion)

Following a thoughtful introduction by one of our church members, we have a time of open worship where everyone is encouraged to contribute by prayer, reading a Bible passage or requesting a hymn. The worship moves naturally into the celebration of communion - the passing of bread and a shared cup of wine - in which all believers are invited to take part. Many people feel that this is the most important service of the week. An offering is taken and the weekly notices are given after which this service ends. There is then a short break for tea/coffee and biscuits before the Family Time service. Starting in October the Breaking of Bread service will be held in the evening once a month - see the Three Month Teaching Programme for details or look at the Blogspot.

Family Time

The first part of Family Time is lively and often noisy, with all the children present. The main Bible theme for the morning is introduced through songs, games and visual aids. The format is very varied with lots of audience participation. The children leave for their classes, and the adults settle down for the main teaching of the morning: a Bible-based talk lasting about half an hour. Many topics of practical interest are covered including the family, and social issues. The service is suitable for all, wherever families or not. Details can be found in the pdf download (208Kb).

Sunday Evening Praise

The teaching on a Sunday evening is on topics chosen to cover the major Christian doctrines during a year's programme. The service includes a variety of other activities including book reviews, video or slide presentations, songs and testimonies before the teaching. Once a month there will be a Breaking of Bread service in the evening - see the Three Month Teaching Programme for details.

Prayer and Bible Study

This is the focus on the Wednesday evenings. Bible teaching meetings start at 8pm and take the form of an in-depth consecutive Bible study, sometimes followed by discussion, always followed by prayer. This is the main opportunity for the church to pray together.

Once a month we have had our Missionary Focus meeting on a Wednesday. This meeting gives a fascinating insight into missionary work in countries as diverse as Africa, India, Austria and France. We often have guest speakers - missionaries 'on holiday,' who are pleased to give in-depth information about the unique problems of their particular situations. Presentations are always followed by prayer for the countries in question (often in more depth on the following Wednesday) and for the general work of the church.

Normally every other week is the time for Home Groups. This is an opportunity to get to know people in the church, when small groups meet together for prayer and Bible study in homes across the city. Any of the church leaders will be pleased to point you in the direction of your nearest group. Transport can easily be arranged for those needing it, so distance is no object. The common theme of all our Wednesday meetings is prayer.

See separate entry for youth activities. (Link)

Women's prayer - 3rd Thursday of the month at 2:30pm. See separate entry for women's activities. (Link)

Friday Night Special - 2nd Friday of the month, 7:15pm. An evening talk or demonstration for men and women on topics of interest followed by an epilogue and refreshments.

Friday is also the evening for the Covies senior youth club activities.