Visiting a church for the first time can be a challenging experience, so we have put together some information regarding questions you may have about our ministry. If we missed one, please contact the church office at 813-884-8250 or send us an email at info@hillsdalebaptist.org.
• What are the services like?
Hillsdale is a traditional church with traditional church services. We try to reflect a biblical view of God in our music as well as in our message. Our church family is comprised of young and old with a mixture of ethnical backgrounds. Pastor Smith preaches Bible-based messages that are both timely and applicable. Copies of his messages are available for download on this site or can be purchased on audio CD.
At the end of each service the congregation is invited to respond to the message – to accept Christ as Savior, to make a spiritual decision, or simply to pray. Counseling is available during this time. Services generally last for 1 hour and 15 minutes. We have a guest reception area in the lobby where you can meet members of our pastoral staff after each morning service. Pastoral staff members and their wives are on hand to welcome those who are new to Hillsdale and answer questions.
• What happens when I arrive?
Friendly greeters will meet you at the door. They can direct you to the auditorium, classrooms, or nurseries. Greeters and ushers will be happy to answer any questions you may have during your visit. Information is also available at the Welcome Center in the lobby.
• What is available for infants, toddlers, and children?
Our nurseries are well equipped and fully supervised to care for infants and toddlers during each of our weekly services. Classes are available for children of all ages. Teens are encouraged to participate in our dynamic youth progam, Inside-Out Teens.
• How can I meet other members of Hillsdale?
One of the best ways to meet others and develop friendships is to be involved in an Adult Bible Fellowship small group Bible study. ABF small groups meet at 9:15am and give opportunities for fellowship and spiritual growth. For more information CLICK HERE.
• How can I learn more about Hillsdale Baptist Church?
Attending a service or class is a good start. When you are here, be sure to visit the Welcome Center in the lobby. Friendly people are there to answer your questions and provide you with information about Hillsdale’s ministries and events.
• How can I become a member of Hillsdale Baptist Church?
· By Profession of Faith: This means receiving Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
· By Baptism: After you have accepted Christ as your personal Savior you should be baptized. While baptism does not save, it does show your obedience to God’s Word in following Christ’s example. If you are a member of another church and have not been baptized by immersion then you will need to be baptized soon after joining Hillsdale.
· By Statement: If you have accepted Christ, have been baptized by immersion, are a member of another church or are coming upon your verbal statement of faith in Christ, you may join Hillsdale Baptist Church by going forward during the invitation on Sunday morning or Sunday night. Let him know which of the above ways you desire to unite with the church. If you are not sure of the appropriate way, the pastor will assist you in that determination.
• Discover Hillsdale 101-104
All prospective members are asked to attend a 4-week “Discover Hillsdale” class series that meets in the church office conference room on Wednesday nights at 6:30 pm [please see Pastor Barber if arrangements need to be made for another time]. The purpose of the “Discover Hillsdale” series is to introduce you to the ministries and philosophy of Hillsdale Baptist Church. The format for the “Discover Hillsdale” series is:
ü Discover Hillsdale 101 – Sunday Luncheon w/Pastor Smith [Introduction; Orientation]
ü Discover Hillsdale 102 – “Who We Are” w/Pastor Smith
ü Discover Hillsdale 103 – “Where You Fit” w/Pastor Barber
ü Discover Hillsdale 104 – “Stewardship and Service” w/Pastor Barber