Sunday, June 13, 2010

Part A: Citipointe Church


Cititpointe Church is a Charismatic Church with a well-known reputation for its religious views. What sets it apart from other churches (Catholic, Orthodox etc) is its forms of the modern aspects of the normal life. The church incorporates the use of professional technology, in which certain events are broadcast and shown to other churches throughout the country, or possibly the globe. The clothing is modern , while some of the people incorporate a modern sense of fashion, but overall the church clothing is casual. The architectural desgin of the interior and exterior isn't in the form of the stereotypical style which some churches are portrayed in - this meaning a very complex and heavy decorated church. The church design is rather simple, but is very unique in size and does hold an original architectural design, which is again simple but differs from some other churches. The Church includes a bible college, as well as a cafe and bookstore, amongst smaller prayer rooms and offices included in the church. The main auditorium is set out as a great room with a large stage with professional lighting & sound setups.

The historical origins of the church dates back to the 1970's when the church was first formed and only had about 25 people attending the services. Since then, the church has grown stronger and larger and has now established other campuses around Brisbane, with over 4000 people now part of the great congregation. At around September 2000, Pastors Mark and Leigh Ramsey took over the church as the pastors of the church and have also been preaching all throughout Australia.
The core beliefs of the church result in that of the reformation, how Christians believe in the Old and New testament of the bible. "The Justification of Faith" is what describes that if you believe in Christ, you will be saved and shall be granted eternal life in heaven.This is how the church depicts their faith and views, as well as the power of speaking tongues when filled with the spirit of God. Unlike other churches, Citipointe (Charismatic Churches) don't give punishments directly for those who disobey the word of God, but do count it as sin and shall be punished by the Lord himself. The church also believe and take holy communion, but unlike Catholic religion - Christian do not believe the bread and wine will become that of Jesus flesh and blood literally form inside them. The Church welcomes any visitor (with friendly services e.g free lunch, church packages etc), and accepts them for they believe but does try to change their religious views.
The services are usually held on Sundays (Sabbath Day), but other services are held on other days such Tuesdays (Creative Ministries) and Fridays (Youth). The services normally run from 6:30 a.m - 12:00p.m in the morning and also run from 6:30p.m-9:00 p.m at night. Any visitor is welcome, not matter what their background history holds, since God forgives those who repent and seek forgiveness. The sermons are given by the main church pastor (Pastor Mark Ramsey) and are usually spoken in an enthusiastic, easy to understand, lively and spiritual way as well as a bit humorous, which can benefit all kinds of people who don't particularly shape up to religion very well. The Church also consists of phenomenal events, which can be youth events held for teenagers and young adults. These events can include world renowned bands performing, games & activites, rave rooms, loud music etc, that shapes to teenagers liking. Some involve missionary trips to other countries in need, which some people have received a revelation in which God has touched them. Overall the church is portrayed as fun and lively church, which is what sets it apart from more fanatical, sophisticated churches.
Citipointe's main form of communicating with God is their music. The music is structured in two forms, Praise & Worship. Praise is performed in a loud and enthusiastic way which also mainly includes Christian rock. Worship, is more soft and deep, where people can open the hearts to worship God their saviour. The music plays a big factor in this Church, since it is something that people enjoy doing as it can also include 'mosh-pits' where those who like to shout and jump and go rough may all bunch in a tight group and praise God. The Church performs, records and broadcasts their music all throughout the world, and have received a positive remark from the many all around the globe. Another contributing factor is the churches setup in lighting, sound and vision. A large lighting rig is setup all throughout the perimeter of the stage (hanging above it) and worked by a technician booth, located in the rear end of the auditorium. Three cinema screen hang behind the stage, usually playing the lyrics to what song is being performed, or just visualizing special effects, to add emphasis and atmosphere to the place. Various speaks are placed all throughout the auditorium and can play at extreme volumes, but are not loud in the way that bring disturbance or annoyance.

In conclusion, this Church is a much very enjoyable church, where anyone may participate in to learn more about God, and is probably a recommended church to go to if one seeks God. This is the primary church which I attend, seeing as it is a church is not a boring one to sit through, is filled with lots of excitement and events and is somewhere I can fully connect with Jesus Christ.

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