Parklane Christian Reformed Church

What are services like?
When you enter the building, you'll be greeted warmly and welcomed. If you have young children, you'll be directed to the nursery where you can sign them in. People will probably be gathering in the sanctuary, talking to visitors and friends and preparing for worship. There's an instrumental prelude either from the band, piano or organ. Our pastor, Pete Armstrong, welcomes everyone and makes a couple announcements, welcoming visitors and sharing about bible studies, small groups and neighborhood involvement. Even on a Sunday in which the music is very modern, the liturgy is pretty classic, as you might find in a Presbyterian, Reformed or Episcopal church. There's a call to worship, God's greeting/Greet Each Other, confession/assurance/the law. All of this is interspersed with worship songs. We spend an extended time in prayer. In the morning, a pastor or elder will lead it. In the evening, we take prayer requests from the congregation. We have a song for the children, and many from the congregation sing along or even do the motions (one thing that is unique about us!). Then we have the scripture reading and sermon, which for us is the highlight of the worship service: hearing the gospel. Once a month, we take communion. We invite any baptized christian to participate in communion. We sing a couple more songs, receive God's blessing and are sent out to the live the gospel in His world!

What is the community like?
Really friendly, down to earth Portland folks. It's multi-generational with ages ranging from infant to 103. About 1/3 of us live within a mile of the church and could walk (but we probably don't because it's usually raining!). We care deeply for our diverse and changing neighborhood and do everything we can to serve and open doors to the gospel. Some have called us "the little church that could." We have 150 members but for a church of that size we are very involved. Many people who attend other churches on Sunday or none at all attend our bible studies, talent shows, craft nights and youth group during the week. It's just a friendly group of ordinary people who worship an extraordinary God in East Portland.

What if I'm not a Christian?
There are always folks around who are investigated Christianity and asking big questions about God and faith. You are absolutely more than welcome to journey with us and take things at your own pace. Many of us are married to people who don't share our faith. We seek to love and bless everyone who comes around and serve you as we can.