New Service Times- Fall 2026

Ordering Our Sundays Around What Matters Most

Since my call to Avon Community Church, I’ve been spending a lot of time thinking, praying, and listening around a simple but important question:

What are we forming our lives around as a church?

As we look ahead to Fall 2026, I want to share a change that reflects prayerful conviction and care — and to invite you into the heart behind it.

Beginning in Fall 2026, our Sunday morning rhythm will be:

• Sunday Worship: 9:30–10:30 a.m.

• Sunday School: 10:45–11:30 a.m.

  
  

This is a directional decision, and I want to explain why — not just what.

Worship as the Center of Our Life Together

Scripture consistently reminds us that God’s people are formed not merely by what we believe privately, but by what we practice together.

“Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together… but encouraging one another.” (Hebrews 10:24–25)

Sunday morning worship is not just one activity among many. It is the central gathering of God’s people — the moment when we come together to hear God’s Word, confess, sing, pray, and be reoriented toward Christ.

This schedule change is a way of saying, clearly and consistently: Corporate worship is the main thing.

Not because it’s flashy or emotional, but because it’s formative. Week after week, God uses ordinary faithfulness — gathered worship around Word and Table — to shape His people.

From Gathering to Growing

We’re also intentionally shaping a rhythm where formation flows naturally out of worship.

In the book of Acts, we’re told that the early church:

“Devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.” (Acts 2:42)

Notice the movement: Gathered worship → teaching → shared life.

By placing Sunday School after worship, we’re creating a natural on-ramp into smaller community — a space to reflect, ask questions, and consider how the Scriptures we’ve just heard are shaping our lives.

This matters especially for:

• Guests who are exploring faith

• Families who need clarity and consistency

• Those who are ready to move from sitting in rows to gathering in circles

Sunday School becomes not an obligation, but an invitation.

Clarity That Serves People Well

Scripture also reminds us that good leadership seeks to bring clarity, not confusion:

“For God is not a God of confusion but of peace.” (1 Corinthians 14:33)

By naming this direction now — well in advance — we’re aiming to serve families, guests, and volunteers with clarity. Healthy rhythms don’t just happen; they’re cultivated over time through thoughtful, prayerful decisions.

Over the coming months, as appropriate, I’ll continue leading this from the front — sharing the vision, the reasoning, and the timeline — and working closely with our ministry leaders to ensure they are supported and well-equipped as we move toward this transition.

A Simple Invitation

My hope is that this rhythm helps us live out something simple and deeply biblical:

Gather around Christ. 

Be formed by His Word. 

Walk together in faithful obedience.

Thank you for trusting the process, for loving one another well, and for continuing to show up — week after week — as God shapes us into His people.

Grace and peace, Pastor Dave