Apostolic church visit
Apostolic Field Visit
Elizabeth
REL 100 University of Indianapolis
Abstract
This paper is a discussion of a non-religious persons encounter during a site visit to an Apostolic Church, which takes a very literal interpretation to the Christian Bible. Many topics are discussed within this paper such as materials present in the church, the ritualistic practices, socioeconomic status of members present, and the subjective reaction to the service.
Apostolic Field Visit
Introduction: The name of this church was Apostolic Christian Church. I selected this church because a friend of mine went to this church during his youth. I was completely unaware of doctrine or specific beliefs prior to this visit. I visited on January 26, 2014. This service was the morning service. There is also an afternoon service and multiple Sunday school services. I attended this service alone. I received information regarding this particular church and its doctrines from this friend after the service was completed.
Location and Affiliation: This church is located in Bluffton, IN. It is located in the country. The church was established in 1858. Several companies within the community are owned by members of this church. Local politics are influenced greatly by members of this church. The website also lists several charities they are active in, including: Good Samaritan Fund, F.O.C.U.S., and the World Relief Fund (Bluffton Country Apostolic Christian Church, Outreach, 2013).
Social context: The socio-economic statuses of the members of this church were mostly middle class. A smaller amount were extremely wealthy and below middle-class. Appearances are important. The cars in the parking lot were mostly new cars. Occasionally an older car would be present. Very humble dress was throughout the church. Women wore head coverings and/or veils during services. No skirts were above the knee and men wore suits. The church is 99% Caucasian.
Elizabeth
REL 100 University of Indianapolis
Abstract
This paper is a discussion of a non-religious persons encounter during a site visit to an Apostolic Church, which takes a very literal interpretation to the Christian Bible. Many topics are discussed within this paper such as materials present in the church, the ritualistic practices, socioeconomic status of members present, and the subjective reaction to the service.
Apostolic Field Visit
Introduction: The name of this church was Apostolic Christian Church. I selected this church because a friend of mine went to this church during his youth. I was completely unaware of doctrine or specific beliefs prior to this visit. I visited on January 26, 2014. This service was the morning service. There is also an afternoon service and multiple Sunday school services. I attended this service alone. I received information regarding this particular church and its doctrines from this friend after the service was completed.
Location and Affiliation: This church is located in Bluffton, IN. It is located in the country. The church was established in 1858. Several companies within the community are owned by members of this church. Local politics are influenced greatly by members of this church. The website also lists several charities they are active in, including: Good Samaritan Fund, F.O.C.U.S., and the World Relief Fund (Bluffton Country Apostolic Christian Church, Outreach, 2013).
Social context: The socio-economic statuses of the members of this church were mostly middle class. A smaller amount were extremely wealthy and below middle-class. Appearances are important. The cars in the parking lot were mostly new cars. Occasionally an older car would be present. Very humble dress was throughout the church. Women wore head coverings and/or veils during services. No skirts were above the knee and men wore suits. The church is 99% Caucasian.