The Mystery Worshiper recently visited Walker Valley Baptist Church.  To find out what he/she learned, read the full article.

Mystery Worshipper: Shirley Goodness

The church name:          Walker Valley Baptist Church

Denomination:               Southern Baptist

The building:                  Former Bridal Boutique

The neighborhood:          Business and residential in Charleston, TN

The cast:                       Pastor, Youth Pastor and 2 worship leaders

What was the name of the service (if any)?           Faith and the Self Controlled Life

How full was the building?           1/5 full…only about 15 people with several children in the children’s service

Did anyone welcome you personally?      Yes, the pastor, youth pastor, worship leaders and several others

Was your pew comfortable?        Yes, the chairs were padded

How would you describe the pre-service atmosphere?       Friendly, with worship videos playing on projector screen

What were the exact opening words of the service?           Let’s all praise and worship our Lord together.  Feel free to worship in whatever way you feel.

What books did the congregation use during the service?  None

What musical instruments were played?  None…projected video music was used with words displayed.

Did anything distract you?  At times the worship music on the screen was difficult to follow with the praise leaders directing.

Was the worship stiff-upper-lip, charismatic, or what?        Contemporary, worshipful and reflective…some raised their hands in worship or clapped their hands.

Exactly how long was the sermon?          45 minutes, but it didn’t seem long.

On a scale of 1-10, how good was the preacher?              8

In a nutshell, what was the sermon about?           Self controlled living by faith

Which part of the service was like being in heaven?           Worship time

And which part was not so heavenly?       Sound system feedback problems

What happened when you hung around after the service looking lost?         People were friendly thanking me for visiting

How would you describe the after-service environment and interaction?       Warm

How would you feel about making this church your regular (where 10 = ecstatic, 0 = terminal)?   5

Did the service make you feel glad to be a Christian?        Yes!

What one thing will you remember about all this in seven days’ time?         For a newly organized congregation, this body of believers seems to have a vision to reach the community in a real and contemporary manner with enthusiasm and good leadership.