What can I expect when I visit?
That's a good question! Here are a few answers for the most common questions about visiting GR First!
Tell me about your message.
We believe in teaching from the Word of God, the Bible. Pastor Sam loves to use illustrations, special effects, and humor to bring the Bible to life in a current and relevant form. Our goal is "Bringing People to Christ and Equipping them to be Like Him".
What is your music like?
The Grand Rapids First praise and worship experience is primarily a pursuit of God’s presence. Our music exalts the character of our Lord through various styles. We pursue His presence through extravagant worship, with the contribution of different cultures and creative excellence. Our ultimate goal and responsibility is to continually usher in the presence of the Lord and facilitate an anointed time of praise and worship, upholding a standard of excellence in music as we minister for His honor and glory.
What denomination is GR First?
Grand Rapids First is associated with the Assemblies of God and we do ascribe to 16 tenets of faith. If you have any questions or would like to speak to someone who can help you in your journey with God please contact us (link to contact)
What should I wear?
Jesus accepts you just as you are, and so do we! We believe in modesty and decency, but there is no dress code required for you to be accepted into our family of believers. Some people come in their Sunday best and others in jeans and t-shirts; it’s really up to you.
How long should I plan to be there?
Our Sunday morning service times at Grand Rapids First are 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Each service lasts approximately 1 1/2 hours. After the service we encourage you to come meet Pastor Sam, get connected, and enjoy refreshments at our welcome center, Solomon’s Porch Café.
Do I need to give money?
There is no financial expectation of our guests. However, as a church, we strongly believe that “where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21). By tithing, giving offering to building projects, missions and benevolence, you will experience great blessings from God. Trusting God with your finances will help you to "Live in the Sweet Spot", the catchy title of a previous dynamic sermon series in which Pastor Sam illustrated God's blessings with a tractor load of Jelly Bellies!
Where do I park?
We have signs directing you from the moment you pull in either of our drives from of 44th Street or Byron Center Ave. Close-up parking spots are reserved just for guests. Look for orange-vested welcome volunteers to guide you to the guest parking area.
Join us at the Porch Cafe
The Porch Café is a warm, inviting place to have something to eat and drink with friends. It's also where Pastor Sam and Brenda meet with our new guests following every Sunday service. If you're new at Grand Rapids First, drop into the Café after the service. You'll be introduced to other new people and you'll discover more about our many ministries. We look forward to serving you soon!
The Porch Cafe' Hours:
Open to all: 8-9:00 a.m.
10:30-11 a.m.
Guests Only:
Immediately following 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. services.
