Who We Are

Our Statement of Purpose We exist to Teach and Spread the Word of God to All in Friendship and in Love (Matt. 28:19-20, Matt. 22:36-40.) We believe our job as a church is to communicate the love and purity of God with all our of heart and to love our neighbors like we love ourselves. We believe we are to be representatives for God. We represent him through love, acceptance and friendship to all and by following the teachings of his Word and the guidance of his Spirit. The Purpose of Your Life "The purpose of your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness. It's far greater than your family, your career, or even your wildest dreams and ambitions. If you want to know why you were placed on this planet, you must begin with God. You were born by his purpose and for his purpose. ... It's not about you." Rick Warren, The Purpose Driven Life

Our Minister

Bruce Bates came to Cumberland to work with our church in February 1997. Bruce has a B.A. in biblical languages and a Masters of Divinity from the Harding Graduate School of Religion. He is pursuing a doctorate in small group ministry. Bruce is married to Janet, and they have a daughter Annie. Janet has a B.S. degree in Physical Therapy. The Bates work full-time with the church in Cumberland. Bruce absolutely loves pastoring the flock here. Their hobbies include athletics, camping, and hiking.

Our Church Affiliation

The Blackstone Valley Church affiliates with the Churches of Christ (not to be confused with the International Church of Christ or Boston Church of Christ). Churches of Christ can be found in all 50 states and over 120 countries. There are over 100 congregations of Churches of Christ in New England and 13,000 in the United States.

Churches of Christ were born out of the American Church Restoration Movement which occurred between the late 1700’s and 1850. This was a time in our nation’s history when many decided to live their life — not by church traditions or ancient creeds — but by what was in the Bible alone. Today, Churches of Christ still believe that they should speak only where the Bible speaks and to be silent where the Bible is silent. This has proved to be a unifying principle for many.

Our Worship

God invites us to worship with him with a focus on a worshipful heart more so than outward appearances. This is the kind of worshipper God seeks (1 Samuel 16:7; John 4:24). Therefore at Blackstone Valley, we value a style of worship where people feel like they can come to God "as you are." If you visit us for worship, you will find many of our members dressing casually.

Each week at Blackstone Valley we gather around a table to partake of the Lord’s Supper. This service of taking unleavened bread and a cup of the fruit of the vine reminds us of what life is all about —celebrating that God’s Son has offered his life and saved us from the consequences of sin (1 Corinthians 11:26). The first Christians took the Lord’s Supper every week and we feel it is a very important part of our worship time (Acts 20:7). Our communion is open to all who wish to partake it.

During worship there will be a presentation of the Word of God in classes for children and in a sermon for the adults. We believe the Bible is the authoritative message from God. It is our compass for all our decisions in life. (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

At Blackstone Valley we sing a cappella, that is, singing without musical instruments. We enjoy this style because it encourages each of us to participate in singing as we worship God.