The Mystery Worshiper recently visited Candies Creek Baptist Church.  To find out about his/her experience, read the full article.
Sunday, November 20th, 2005

Mystery Worshipper:    Shirley Goodness

The church name:    Candies Creek Baptist Church

Denomination:    Southern Baptist

The building:    New and attractive

The neighborhood:    Country, rural

The cast:    Choir, musicians, worship leader, Pastor

What was the name of the service (if any)?    What You Think Matters: Building Yourself Up (in the Faith)…Jude 20-23

How full was the building?    3/4 full; approximately 500 total in 2 services

Did anyone welcome you personally?    Yes, a church greeter and those seated nearby

Was your pew comfortable?    Chairs were comfortable

How would you describe the pre-service atmosphere?    People visiting, getting seated while music played

What were the exact opening words of the service?    The choir sang

What books did the congregation use during the service?    Bibles

What musical instruments were played?    Piano, keyboard, organ, guitars, drums

Did anything distract you?    Occasionally people leaving and entering the building through the front side doors during the service

Was the worship stiff-upper-lip, charismatic, or what?    Older and some newer choruses were sung

Exactly how long was the sermon?    About 45-50 minutes

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

In a nutshell, what was the sermon about?    1 Cor. 3:9, building our faith on the foundation of Jesus; Believer’s Workout: Getting into the Word of God, Holy Spirit prompted prayer, Obedience (keeping in God’s love) and ministry to others

Which part of the service was like being in heaven?    Fellowship with believers

And which part was not so heavenly?

What happened when you hung around after the service looking lost? People thanked me for coming

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

How would you feel about making this church your regular (where 10 = ecstatic, 0 = terminal)?    7

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?    The Pastor’s friendly smile