Reviews
If you're used to visiting Acts 29 churches, you'll be surprised by this one. While there's a very clear structure, it's one that reminds me of Catholic churches that I see on TV sometimes; and hymns that perhaps were sung during the 1800s. Aside from these superficial aspects, it's still not as diverse as one would expect from a church in DC. One only needs to browse thru the leadership on their website and see the stats of the DC population to observe the disparity. But perhaps the aspect that deterred us from returning was the heavy approach that weighed on its visitors like condemnation -- lacking in the hope and radical work of the Cross that loves and frees. I can't imagine bringing an atheist friend here; does anyone here actually try to spread the gospel to nonbelievers, or are they too concerned with their own spiritual purity? This place certainly seems to fulfill its own view of penance. One last note: in the morning service, it's incredibly crowded, and not all of the seats have a visible view of the podium. And in accordance with its serious, reverent approach, TVs/projectors showing the pastor are banned for they might interfere with the solemn work of the Holy Spirit.
3
7 years ago (24-01-2018)
Great for visitors to D.C. but come early to get the high-in-demand seats.
Great for joining in the long term or for 6month etc.
I've discovered Capitol Hill Baptist Church is a star of church function and practice, relying on God and the scriptures for running services and Church life, and trying to make everything about knowing Jesus. The loving community is very large and ethnically diverse. While it takes time for you to be integrated into the Church upon calling this church yours due to the amount of people and visitors always around the church, the process of membership ensures that nobody gets left out or is treated unequally. Committing to be a member here I discovered is how the pastoral staff and plurality of elders knows you want to grow in friendships and fellowship in this Church and that you are staying around. This Church specializes in ecclesiology, training members and interns, and how the gospel is at the center of everything important, being essential to life or death. Organic outreaches, ministry, discipleship, and growth is encouraged and sustained by its large member base. You will find that most members come back even for the 5pm prayer/evening service (different content from the morning one) and also that members are committed to attendance and prayer. Head Pastor Mark Dever, an elder, or a visiting elder/pastor gives thought engaging sermons that are expositional and based on the text, not wandering into myths or relying on tradition. Dever when he preaches is pronounced and clear, especially about the gospel message being included in the sermon for your friends (and YOU) to hear if you invite them, a graduate of Duke/Cambridge, who's friendly demeanor and loving concern for his congregation, encourage introspection and growth in believers. Non-Christians are very welcome here and are treated no different than believers, while being encouraged in the sermon to think deeply about the realities and truths that govern our shared world, and what the Creator did to demonstrate his love for us, and why that is everyone's concern, whoever you are. I have just started going there a year or so, came looking for a church, and, after trying many different ones, was blessed to find this one.
(Bonus Visitor's Information:
9:30am Core Seminars (Adult Sunday School Classes)
10:30am Main Service,
5pm afternoon prayer/evening service
Wednesday, 7pm hour Church Bible study,
Childcare available during Sunday mornings and maybe other times)
(Other Atmosphere Attributes:
Service is Contemporary in relevance and traditional in music (congregational singing is so cool to hear), Coffee and Cookies (yum) lots of young people, lots of older people, lots of different countries and ethnic groups represented, diverse political population (Reps & Dems), diverse in walks of life represented (homeless to capitol building), scientists, politicians, teachers, workers, businessmen, and more. about 1000 members, if you are visiting, come early to get a seat, there is often little extra room and it can feel crowded, but a member would be glad to offer you their seat, the nearest metro is Eastern Market (Orange, Silver, Blue lines) the bus goes near here too, Parking is hard to find, but you can find it, its free on the streets. The neighborhood is big and residential, short walk to multiple lunch options and unique shops, the capitol building, and union station. Secure Bike rack available (I bike). Visitors can ask any question about the sermon or something else to elders or the person who preached that day because after service they stand at the door, the preacher will be in the back right away from stage, near the cookies and staircase, ready to talk to you.)
Bonus Bonus Information: If you are fast, there are nice bakery cupcakes down stairs after service for the taking!
5
7 years ago (01-02-2018)
This is a great example of a healthy church that preaches God's Word faithfully. I highly recommend it to those new to the area or visiting looking for a church.
5
7 years ago (10-12-2017)
This church acknowledges our sin and need for a savior, without shame or judgment. It is refreshing and sparks hope.
5
7 years ago (16-01-2018)
Loved the worship and teaching. Very friendly.
5
7 years ago (22-04-2018)
