Why do church so unconventionally? What's wrong with the traditional church?

Absolutely nothing is wrong with traditional churches. People need to worship in places that meet their needs and speak their language, as well as places that will give them a strong foundation in faith. Unfortunately, ours is a generation that has abandoned the traditional church. Every culture and generation must take the timeless truths of the Bible and seek to communicate them in a way that connects with people. That's our goal.

In an attempt to be hip and relevant, do you ever water-down the Bible?

No, God's Word is our final authority. It's just that so many people in our generation have a tough time understanding Scripture and seeing that it really has practical meaning for their lives. We never ignore truth because we want people to like us, but we will package truth within the language of our culture. That's why at times in our services you may experience the message as much through the arts as through the speaker.

Why do you make such a big deal out of getting into a small group?

Because we believe that's where your life is going to change the most. That's where you are going to grow. When you can get together regularly with the same group of people where you are known, loved, celebrated, and served, that's when you are really experiencing church the way God intended it. You will miss out on the most exciting part of Gateway if you never even check out a small group.

The service on Sunday seems to be focused on the basics of Christianity. How will I get fed spiritually and continue to grow?

It's true, the Sunday morning service tends to be geared towards people who are checking out Christianity or who are just taking first steps. There isn't as much worship music, and we try not to use any religious jargon that might be incomprehensible to someone who is a spiritual seeker. That doesn't mean that seasoned Christians aren't going to get a lot out of the service. We deal with hard-hitting, everyday issues that we all face and see what the Bible has to say about those issues. We all grow together on Sunday mornings, but the service is just more accessible to people who aren't used to being in church. 180, held the 3rd Sunday evening of every month, is a change of pace. It is a guided worship time of going deeper in Christ. Don't worry, between Sunday morning, 180, and your small group, you're going to get fed.

What denomination are you?

We're not part of any. And we're not the only Christians, we're just a body of people committed to being the church as described in the Bible. If you want to know what we believe, check out our statement of faith on this Web site. We are, however, a member of the Willow Creek Association of churches, which is an inter-denominational organization of thousands of churches around the world who are committed to using innovative ways to reach people who don't go to church. All decisions about our church are made here by Gateway leaders, and all of our finances go towards Gateway ministries. All financial matters are overseen by an outside Board of Directors, and all financial books are made open to anyone who inquires.

And another thing, we love to work with other churches. We believe that a lack of unity among Christian churches breaks God's heart and is a waste. You'll see us partnering with others to make things happen.

What do I wear?

Come as you are. We care about you -- not what you wear.

How much does it cost to go there?

Nothing. We do have an offering every week, but it's not for people who are checking out the church. Gateway is supported financially by the people who have chosen to make it their church home. You won't find us trying to squeeze cash out of you every time you walk through the door. Giving should never flow out of compulsion or guilt.