First off, let me say “Welcome.” Seriously, welcome. I’m very glad that you are taking time to learn more about First Assembly in Front Royal. Let me introduce myself. I’m Nick Croft, Youth and Associate pastor. While we are getting all the stuff setup on this site I’ll be the main voice you hear here. We are inviting others to help make this place more personal, so expect to see others writing here soon.
If you are on this page, you are probably looking for some important details, like how to find us, what we have going on, and when all of that is happening.
Services and Times
We have 3 main services each week.
- Sunday10:30am Worship and Word (that’s the main service where we sing and the pastor preaches)
- 4pm Student Ministries
- Wednesday PM – 7:00 midweek “family services”
Just a few details on what happens during these services, and some links to more details because I know not everyone knows what to expect.
Sunday AM Worship and Word
This is a “contemporary” style worship service. We sing songs worshiping God to start the service, and often more at the end of the service. The songs are typically on the projector screen, though occasionally we sing from the hymnal. Don’t worry if you don’t know the songs. Our senior pastor is a very talented musician and actually writes some of the songs we sing. I have been in church pretty much my whole life and can sing most hymns, choruses, and other worship songs blindfolded. Caught me by surprise to hear some song I had never sung before, but I caught on quickly. After a few songs the Senior Pastor, David Sterling, usually preaches a sermon. Sometimes the Pastor’s Wife, Audrey Sterling, who is also a pastor, myself, or a few other preachers will be speaking.
Children’s Church and Nursery
During the sermon children are allowed to go down stairs for our “Children’s Church.” They will be taught fun Bible lessons and other helpful stuff. They play games, get prizes and generally make me want to go downstairs myself. We also have a nursery off the side of the sanctuary, with seating near the nursery if you need to slip in and out during service.
Communion and Fellowship Meal
The first Sunday of the month we have Communion and a special “fellowship meal.” If you show up on the first Sunday, don’t freak out. Join us in Communion if you feel comfortable. We celebrate an “open communion” meaning that we let you work it out with God, not with us. We also invite you to join us for lunch after service that day. Don’t’ worry about bringing anything. We usually have more than we need. Just come downstairs after service and sit where you like (by then I’ll probably ask you to sit with me, but then again someone else will probably ask too). You don’t have to clean up, tip or anything. Just enjoy your time and get to know the people you are sitting with. Another great reason to drop in on the first Sunday.
Student Ministries
Sundays from 4pm-6pm
The Youth program is … well for young men and women of high school and middle school age. Services typically include preaching, sometimes music, and any number of illustrations and games. This service is currently in the main church building in the cafeteria downstairs.
Wednesday PM – Family Service
The “Family Services” moniker might sound “off” if you think “I’m single” but don’t worry, there is something for everyone because we are all “family.” This evening breaks down into 4 parts. We have an Adult service, that is similar to the Worship and Word services, plus Missionettes, Royal Rangers and Senior High Youth.
Girl’s Ministries
Girl’s Ministries is a girls program that teaches girls about God and other important life skills. The program gets updated regularly to keep up with our changing world. In some ways you might say it is similar to “Girls Scouts” and similar programs, but it’s really more than that. Classes are in the main church building.
Royal Rangers
Royal Ranger is a boys program to teach boys about God and important life skills. Again, it is somewhat similar to “Boy Scouts” but gives more focus on God. Classes are also in the main church building.
Location, Location, Location
If you are familiar with Front Royal, we are really easy to find. The church is located at:
1111 N Shenandoah AveFront Royal, VA 22630
It’s directly North of the Warren Memorial Hospital. If you aren’t familiar with the town, follow the signs to the hospital and the church is next door.