Visitor Information Center

At Third Church, we seek to be a welcoming and dynamic Christian community for everyone, a place where people - whatever their background, including those who have never been to church - can connect with God, with others, and with opportunities to make a difference in our world.

We want to meet and know those people exactly where they're at, and introduce them to what God and church are all about. We believe each person has a "God-shaped" void in his or her life that needs to be filled. People are simply not complete without a personal knowledge of God and personal relationship with Him.

Together, we're striving to become the kind of church described in the Bible-a church with relevant teaching, heart-felt worship, honest friendships, constant prayer, and compassionate care for those in need. In short, we want to be a warm, inclusive community that welcomes all people the way God has welcomed and accepted us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Third Church located?

Third Church is located at 514 Liberty Street, on the corner of Sixth and Liberty Streets, just two blocks from the Dutch windmill in downtown Lynden Washington. Click here  for directions and map.

Where do I park?

There are  parking spots surrounding the block, in the large parking lot behind the church building, and in a small parking lot on the corner of Sixth and Liberty across from the church. There is handicapped parking between the alley and the back side of the educational wing.

I haven't read the Bible or been to church lately. Is there a place for me at Third Church?

Certainly! Our relaxed atmosphere says "come as you are," and participate in our worship services and fellowships. Whether you are unfamiliar with Scripture or have been a lifelong student, you will find others just like you at our church.

I'm just beginning to investigate Christianity. How can Third Church help me?

Come check us out! We have a casual, "no pressure" appeal that permits you to observe ordinary people whose primary goal is to live out Christ's teachings daily. Our worship services center on getting to know Jesus in a personal way because we believe you can, and we love to show others how.

Will I have to stand up and be recognized as a visitor or will I be anonymous?

Each service has a few minutes set aside for us to greet and welcome each other, however, as a new visitor, you will not be ask to stand and be identified as a newcomer. This is an opportunity to greet each other with a simple handshake, wave or smile and gives us all a chance to get to know each other a little better.

We hope that you will join us for coffee and cookies in the narthex after both morning services.

When do you gather for worship?

There are three worship opportunities each Sunday. Our Dayspring worship service is at 8:30 AM, our second morning worship service is at 11:00 AM, and our evening worship service is at 6:00 PM.

Click here for information about our worship services.

Do you have programs and activities for all members of my family?

Yes! Third Church offers programs and activities that are designed to assist every member of your family to come to know the Lord and live for Him. Learn more about the programs, activities, and ministries offered by Third Church

All of the programs for our children and youth are designed to draw your child into a real and vital relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. From the loving care in the nursery to the deeper Biblical truths taught in middle and high school, your children and youth will enjoy learning the truth and values found in God's Word. Learn more  about the programs and activities we offer your children.

We have an exciting skate ministry for  junior high and high school students in our community. Learn more about The Skate.

Third Church offers a number of adult ministry opportunities and programs that encourage Bible study and fellowship. Learn more about our adult discipleship programs.

What is your vision of ministry?

Our vision of ministry is stated in our Vision Statement: "With thankfulness to God each one of us will, in love reach out to, care for and enfold seekers and believers in our community so that lives will be changed through Jesus' love".

Our vision of ministry is symbolized by our motto "Changing lives through Jesus' love" and by our logo "Go - Gather - Grow".

What does your church believe?

We believe that the Bible, both the Old Testament and the New Testament, is the inspired Word of God, the only infallible rule of faith and life. We believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God sent to redeem the world; we love and trust Him as the one who saves us from our sin; and with repentance and joy we embrace Him as Lord of our life.  

Our beliefs are summarized in three ancient creeds, the Apostles', the Nicene, the Athanasian, which are the product of hundreds of years' reflection on the nature and work of Jesus Christ. We also use three Reformation documents, the Belgic Confession, the Canons of Dordt and the Heidelberg Catechism, to help us articulate the central meaning of scripture.

Learn more about what our beliefs and the creeds and confessions we adhere to.

Do you baptize both infants and adults?

Yes.  We believe that children of Christian parents are included in God's plan (covenant) of salvation. Therefore, infant baptism could more accurately be called the baptism of children of Christian parents.  Baptism is a sign of God's promise and a child baptized as an infant still needs to make a commitment at the point of belief.  We also baptize believing adults who were not baptized as children. Learn more about what we believe about baptism.

How often do you celebrate the Lord's Supper?

We celebrate the Lord's Supper (communion) six times a year. We partake of the Lord's Supper in a solemn way by thinking about Jesus' death on the Cross for us. When the Lord's Supper is passed your way you may partake if you like, or, if you'd rather not, that is okay too. Learn more  about how we observe the Lord's Supper.

Do I need to contribute to the offering?

At some time during the service, we have what's called an "offering." This is a way for members and regular attendees of the church to financially give to support really good causes. Please don't feel like you need to contribute - we want you to feel welcome as our guest, with no pressure to give. Our regular attendees and members will put their contributions in the offering plate as it passes by. If you feel like giving something, please feel free - otherwise, just pass along the offering plate to the next person.

What denomination does Third Church belong to?

We are part of the Christian Reformed denomination. This simply means that our roots are in the Protestant Reformation of the 16th century. We still hold to the principles promoted by the Reformation:

• The Bible alone is our authority because it is our source of knowledge of God's will.
• Grace alone, that is God's free gift of his love and forgiveness, restores people to a right relationship with the Lord.
• Faith alone, and not our best efforts at becoming good enough for God, is the way we become God's own children.

Learn more about Christian Reformed Church and its beliefs.

How can I pray for the needs of the congregation?

We believe that prayer is a gift that God has given us to communicate with Him. We can take all of our concerns and lay them at His feet. We also praise Him for all He has done for us. Go to our Prayer Needs and Praise page, in which we share and pray for the many different needs and  joys in the lives of our church family and the people around us.

How can I learn what which activities will be happening at Third Church in the coming week?

Go to our Announcements page to learn about the various programs and activities happening at Third Church this week.

If the walls of Third Church could talk they would have some interesting things to tell us about what happens from week to week in this building.  Listen and imagine with them as the walls share what they hear during a typical week.

How do I become a member of Third Church?

Have you been attending Third Church and wondering how to become a member?  What does it mean to be a member?  What does this church believe?  We would love to assist you with these questions.  Please call the church office for more information or speak with Pastor Tom Kok, or any elder. 

Who serves as the Third Church Ministry Staff?

Our Ministry Staff is eager to serve you. They warmly invite your inquiries, and will gladly consult with you regarding any question of the Christian faith or any personal spiritual problem.

What if I have more questions about Third Church?

Our staff will be happy to answer any question you may have about Third Church, questions you may have about our ministries and programs, or questions you may have about the Christian faith.

Click here for contact information.

Additional information and printed materials are also available from the Visitor Information Center located at the church.