We believe Scripture is the inspired Word of God. It is a completely trustworthy rule for faith and practice, and our final authority for what we believe about God, faith and all of life.

Q: Is Orchard Hills the result of a "split" from the Church of the Holy Spirit?

No. Orchard Hills is an intentional church plant of Church of the Holy Spirit. A few years ago we saw the need for a church like ours in the Botetourt area and have worked diligently to make it a reality.

Q: What do you believe about Holy Communion?

We believe that it is both a commemoration of Christ's death and a real sharing in the body and blood of Christ. (I Cor. 10:16; 1 Cor. 11:23-26)

Q: Why do you include an evangelistic invitation in every service?

We extend an invitation so that anyone who feels led by the Holy Spirit to do so may come forward at that time to make either a public commitment or rededication of his or her life to Christ.

Q: Why do you "pass the peace"?

We do this because it was done in the earliest services in the New Testament church. It also gives parishioners an opportunity to share the love of Christ with others, particularly newcomers.

Q: What is your belief regarding the gifts of the Holy Spirit?

We believe the gifts of the Holy Spirit that were in use during the days of the early church are still available today. We do not find any biblical evidence that they were to cease after the end of the apostolic age. We also take seriously the biblical command to do all things "decently and in order" (1 Cor. 14:40)

Q: Do you baptize infants?

Our position on baptism is summarized here.

Q: Why do some people raise their hands during worship?

The scriptures exhort worshippers to "raise holy hands in the sanctuary." Those who do so feel this is a physical way of expressing praise, openness, and humility to God. The purpose of this gesture is similar to that of kneeling and making the sign of the cross. All of these outward forms of worship are to be done "decently and in order."

Q: Would you please explain your church government?

Our church is led by a group of elders and numerous ministry leaders. The elders are pre-screened by the current elder board and are presented to the congregation for its approval. The elders are the governing body within the Anglican Church structure. The ministry leaders are men and women who lead and oversee specific ministry teams. They are accountable to the elders and to our pastors who administer these activities. Our pastors are accountable to the elders.

Q: What is your church's affiliation?

We are founding members of the Province of Rwanda's joint evangelical mission with the Province of South East Asia. This new work is called the Anglican Mission in America (AMIA). Our bishop is the Rt. Rev. Thadeus "Thad" Barnum and our Presiding Bishop is Emmanuel Kolini of Rwanda. Anglican Mission in America has already been endorsed by several other Anglican bishops and even the Primate of Nigeria. Our focus is on establishing and maintaining a faithful Anglica presence here in the USA.

Q: How are the church pledges and finances handled?

All tithes and offerings given to the Lord through the Church of the Holy Spirit- Orchard Hills are confidential. The church treasurer keeps track of all monies, and should you wish to have an annual statement of your contributions for tax purposes, you may use personalized checks, or in the case of cash, envelopes that note your name.

Q: Why do you sometimes recite creeds such as the Apostle's Creed?

The creeds were established in the early days of he Christian church. This was in response to heresy which was being taught. The creeds attempt to clearly establish the beliefs of true followers of Christ.

Q: Why do people pray aloud during the service?

People often pray aloud so that others might agree with them in prayer. It can also be helpful by teaching various ways we can pray to God beyond our individual prayer time.

Q: What are your church office hours?

Our office is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM until 5:00 PM. The phone number is 977-6800. Should you connect with our automated message system, you may leave a message on voicemail, and your call will be returned as soon as possible.

Q: How do I become a church member?

We ask that you call the church office and schedule a meeting with the pastor to discuss your desire to become a member. We encourage you to attend Newcomer Class. This is an excellent way to learn more about Church of the Holy Spirit- Orchard Hills, but it is not mandatory. We ask that you go for prayer during the invitation time of our worship service and express your desire to become a member of the church. The pastor or one of the elders will pray with you as you confirm your commitment to serve Jesus Christ and the Church of the Holy Spirit- Orchard Hills. We also need you to complete the membership information form. Our church secretary can mail you a copy or you may pick one up from the church office.