We had no clue what church we were visiting. Most early services were already over, and we were literally driving around hoping to find a place to visit that started before 11am. We did a Google search for churches in Fuquay and Holly Springs, and found Carolina Chapel. We headed over to their 10am service with no idea of what to expect. Their temporary location is in the Apex Banquet Hall - 1402 East Williams Street at US1 and 55. Their website said 'come as you are', and when we got there, we were warmly greeted by several church members. They have a separate children's church for very young children, though youth members also attended the main service.
The church is young and small - only a year old - and the congregation was diverse and laid back. The church is led by Pastor Ryan Moon. He is a musician and singer as well, and opened the service by leading a contemporary Christian band - keyboard, drums, bass, semi-acoustic guitar. The music was very good, just a bit too loud due to the acoustics of their current location - very low ceilings, etc. The service consisted of music, interspersed with prayer and scripture, and sermon. The sermon was Part 2 of a series focusing on loving your life now. He opened the sermon with a comedy video clip to start - didn't quite tie in directly, but the sermon was first-rate. He was very well prepared, referring to notes only occasionally. He incorporated scripture throughout his sermon, and was able to put passages in layman's terms without talking down to the congregation. He was dynamic and and spoke from life experiences, projecting honesty and sincerity.
When the service was over - it lasted about an hour and a half - Pastor Ryan took the time to welcome us, while the congregation put together a low-key pot luck lunch. We had a very positive experience at Carolina Chapel, and don't doubt the church will continue to grow, particularly once they settle into their permanent location in Holly Springs.
Non-Denominational? Yes
Dress: Casual, come as you are
Type of Service: Contemporary, Charismatic, Music- and Message-Driven
Multiple Services? Not yet - 10am only, with separate Children's Church available
Communion? Monthly at present
Diverse? Yes
LGBT Friendly? Seems to be
Note: They are unable to adjust the thermostat in their current location -- it was VERY cold, so be sure to take a jacket regardless of the season... read more