So you've heard about TOP and now your are thinking about a visit. Well, to start you off right, we've taken some of the mystery out of your first time with us. Why? Because we know that being at a new church can be a challenge. There are always questions about what to expect, where to go, and what to do. But we don't want that to hold you back because we can't wait to meet you! Here are answers to a few common questions:
1. What do I wear?
Come and be comfortable! It doesn't matter to us what you wear. The most important thing to us is that we get to know you.
2. Where do I park?
There's plenty of parking in front of the TOP complex as well as to the side of it. It's an easy walk to the sanctuary, but for your comfort, we have a shuttle service that will take you from your car to the front door of the building. If you choose to take it, the shuttle leaves from the parking lot every few minutes.
3. Wow, nice lobby! Now what?
By now, you've already been greeted by some of the great volunteers standing at the door waiting on your arrival and you're standing in the main lobby. The restrooms are to the left and the Source Marketplace is to the right. The Information Center and the main hallway are straight ahead of you. As you make your way down the hallway, look up! There are several giant flat screen televisions hanging from the ceiling to show you some of the exciting things going on at TOP. If you have children, the main hallway is where you'll begin the check-in process for the various classes we have available for them. If you don't have children to check in, just keep going down the hallway and enter the sanctuary through the double doors for an amazing service.
4. I do have kids. Where do I take them?
That depends on your child's age. To start, go to the sign-in table located in the main hallway and check your child in electronically. After you've done that, one of our TOP volunteers will direct you and your child to their new class to meet their teacher. Children are a wise investment, so we train every teacher specifically to the age group in their care. We have a goal in mind for your child. We intend to give tools necessary for a successful life every time they visit with us. All of the classrooms are easily found and run along the sides of the main hallway. For your child's enjoyment, all of our classrooms are entertainingly themed.
Little Dreamers: 3 weeks thru 11 months
Under the Sea: 12 months thru 24 months
On the Farm: 2 year olds
Noah's Ark: 3 and 4 year olds
God's Warriors: 5 year olds thru Kindergarten
5. I feel uncomfortable leaving my child in a new place. Is safety a priority at TOP?
Here again, we've thought of your comfort level. For the safety of your child, we use an electronic check-in system. Additionally, you can be assured that every teacher has undergone and passed a security background check. During service if your child's teacher needs you, your child's name will be displayed on one of the many screens in the sanctuary. An attendant will be available to lead you promptly to your child.
6. Okay, I've made it into the sanctuary. Where do I sit?
As you walk in, you'll be greeted by more of the TOP family, so smile back at them, relax, and stay a while. Make yourself at home and let a porter find you a seat. Better yet, let them show you to it and make a new friend while you're at it!
7. Now what's going to happen?
Now that you're in your seat, just settle in. The hard part's over. Now you get to enjoy the experience, get a feel for the place, and let yourself become a part of it. You're in for a treat! As you wait for service to begin, one of two things will happen. One, you'll see our multiple screens on stage display video information for you about TOP. Or two, you'll hear someone praying for the service before the band and praise team take the stage. Either way, rest assured. Our services begin on time.
8. What's your music like?
Well, to put it lightly, we do it big! Our music is a strong point at TOP and it's as diversified as our congregation. Remember, our Pastor began his ministry as a praise and worship leader, so you have to know you're in for music that's unmatched. We have quite a bit of original tunes written especially for our services. That's just one of the many perks of having such a talented Pastor! And don't be too surprised when while you're learning a new song, you hear an old hymn which morphs into some contemporary Christian music, only to be topped off by an old R&B tune that's been your favorite for years. You just never know. And that's the beauty of it! Why? Because there's great freedom found in an unconventional, yet very intentional praise!
9. What can I expect from the message?
Bishop Gary Oliver teaches with a style that's always relevant, entertaining, and applicable to your daily life. He presents the Word of God in a timely way that will enable you to live your life to its fullest. When you leave TOP, you won't just walk out with a feel-good message that does little long-term good. You'll have the tools you need to take control of your life with a sense of respect for God and for yourself. His isn't a "churchy" message, it's directed at real life issues. Listening with an open mind encourages a fruitful life.
10. What do I do after the service?
Turn around and introduce yourself to the people around you. They're going to want to see you again, and when you come back, you'll have made a friend! Then, if you have children, go pick them up and look at the great things they made for you during service. Before you leave, don't forget to stop by the Source Marketplace to get a CD of the service you just heard and some of our Bishop's great music. And as you go, remember: We can't wait to see you again!