Sunday, September 20, 2026
Sometimes all it takes is one invitation to help someone find the church family they have been searching for.
On Sunday, September 20, Choctaw Church of the Nazarene will join thousands of churches across the United States in celebrating Back to Church Sunday. This nationwide movement is now in its 17th year and encourages churches in all 50 states to open their doors, welcome their communities, and invite people to discover—or rediscover—the hope, belonging, and spiritual encouragement that can be found in a caring church family.
The 2026 theme is “Find Your Place.” It is a reminder that everyone needs a place where they can worship, grow in their faith, build meaningful relationships, and experience the love of Jesus Christ. Whether you attend church every Sunday, have been away from church for a long time, are searching for a new church home, or have never attended church before, there is a place for you here.
Back to Church Sunday is not simply about filling seats for one day. It is about extending a sincere invitation to people in our community and letting them know that they are seen, valued, and welcome. We want every person who joins us to feel comfortable, accepted, and genuinely glad that they came.
The Day Begins at 10:00 AM
We will begin with Sunday School at 10:00 AM, with classes available for people of all ages.
Sunday School provides an opportunity to learn more about the Bible, ask questions, build friendships, and grow in your relationship with God in a smaller and more personal setting. Children, teenagers, and adults can each participate in an age-appropriate class designed to help them connect with God’s Word and with others.
If you have never attended Sunday School before, Back to Church Sunday is a wonderful time to begin. Our teachers and church family will be ready to welcome you and help you find the right class.
Special Worship Service at 11:00 AM
Our worship service will begin at 11:00 AM.
This will be the most important part of our day as we gather to worship God together through music, prayer, Scripture, and fellowship. Pastor Mark will share a special Back to Church Sunday message intended to encourage us, strengthen our faith, and remind us that God has a place and a purpose for every person.
You do not need to know all the songs, understand everything about church, or have your life completely figured out before you come. You are welcome to come just as you are. Our hope is that everyone who attends will experience the love of Christ and leave encouraged by the message and the warmth of our church family.
Lunch and Fellowship After Worship
The celebration will continue after the worship service!
Immediately following worship, everyone is invited to join us in the gymnasium for lunch and fellowship. We will be serving hamburgers with all the sides, so come hungry and plan to stay awhile.
There is no charge for lunch, and you do not need to bring anything. We simply want you to join us, enjoy a good meal, meet some new people, reconnect with familiar faces, and spend time together.
Church is more than attending a service. It is also about forming relationships, encouraging one another, sharing life together, and becoming part of a community of people who care. Lunch in the gym will give everyone an opportunity to relax, visit, laugh, and get to know one another beyond the worship service.
Cornhole Tournament
We will also have a cornhole tournament during our time together in the gym.
Whether you are an experienced player, a casual backyard competitor, or someone who has never thrown a cornhole bag before, you are invited to participate. Come ready for some friendly competition, plenty of laughter, and a great time with friends and family.
Even if you do not want to play, stay and cheer everyone on. The tournament is simply another way for us to enjoy the afternoon together and make Back to Church Sunday a memorable day for our church family and guests.
Who Will You Invite?
A personal invitation can make a tremendous difference.
Many people would be willing to attend church if someone they knew simply invited them. Think about the people God has placed in your life—friends, relatives, neighbors, coworkers, classmates, or someone who may be going through a difficult season. Reach out to them, invite them to come with you, and offer to meet them when they arrive.
Knowing that a familiar person will be waiting for them can make visiting a church for the first time much easier.
Back to Church Sunday is for everyone:
- Those who attend church regularly
- Those who have not attended in months or years
- Those searching for a new church home
- Those who are curious about Christianity
- Those who need encouragement and hope
- Families looking for a place to grow together
- Anyone who wants to experience a welcoming Christian community
Please begin praying now about whom you can invite. A simple conversation, telephone call, text message, or personal invitation could become an important turning point in someone’s life.
Mark Your Calendar
Back to Church Sunday
Sunday, September 20, 2026
10:00 AM — Sunday School for all ages
11:00 AM — Worship service with a special message from Pastor Mark
After Worship — Hamburgers and sides, fellowship, and a cornhole tournament in the gymnasium
Bring your family. Invite your friends. Reach out to your neighbors and coworkers. Whether someone is returning to church or walking through the doors for the first time, we want them to know that they will be welcomed.
Come worship with us, enjoy lunch, meet new people, reconnect with friends, and discover a place where you can belong.
There is a place for you at Choctaw Church of the Nazarene. We look forward to seeing you on September 20!
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