The holiness movement
The holiness churches grew out of 19th-century Methodism. The largest is the Church of the Nazarene; others include the Wesleyan Church, the Free Methodist Church, the Church of God (Anderson, Indiana) and the Salvation Army. They share the Wesleyan teaching of entire sanctification: that God's grace can free a believer to love God and others wholeheartedly.
The service
- A mix of classic hymns and contemporary worship songs, led by a pianist, a band or both.
- Prayer, sometimes with people invited to share requests or kneel at the front.
- The offering and a children's moment.
- A practical, Bible-centered sermon of 25 to 35 minutes.
- An invitation to come to the altar, a kneeling rail at the front, to pray. The altar is often open whenever people want to use it.
Communion and baptism
Communion is held at least four times a year, and monthly in many churches, using grape juice. All believers are welcome to take part. Nazarenes baptize both believers and infants, by sprinkling, pouring or immersion, as the person or parents prefer.
Holy living
Members commit to a disciplined way of life, which traditionally includes avoiding alcohol and tobacco. You will not be asked about any of this as a visitor; it simply explains why church dinners are dry.