Maplewood Baptist Church

A place to grow in grace, truth, and fellowship

Whether you're new to church or looking for a place to call home, Maplewood Baptist Church is a place to grow in your faith, find lasting friendships, and be part of something meaningful.Join us as we learn God’s Word, serve our community, and walk together in grace and truth.

Plan Your Visit

Address:1029 Lost Road
Martinsburg, WV 25403
Phone: (304) 263-1484

Maplewood Baptist Church

A place to grow in grace, truth, and fellowship

Whether you're new to church or looking for a place to call home, Maplewood Baptist Church is a place to grow in your faith, find lasting friendships, and be part of something meaningful.Join us as we learn God’s Word, serve our community, and walk together in grace and truth.

Sunday School
9:30 AM

Sunday Worship
10:30 AM

Sunday Fellowship
11:30 AM

Wednesday
Bible Study
7:00 PM

Thursday
Prayer Group
6:30 PM

The Gospel Film

THE GOSPEL

The gospel is the good news that God loves us and made a way for us to be restored to Him through Jesus Christ. Though we are separated from God by sin, Jesus lived the perfect life we could not live, died on the cross for our sins, and rose again in victory over death. Through repentance and faith in Christ alone, we can be forgiven, made new, and brought into a right relationship with God—not by our works, but by His grace. This message is at the heart of everything we believe and teach at Maplewood Baptist Church, and it is our hope that you will come to know the life, peace, and eternal hope found in Jesus.

Plan Your Visit

Address:1029 Lost Road
Martinsburg, WV 25403
Phone: (304) 263-1484

Upcoming Events

Don’t miss this special event! The Proclaim Ministry Team from Pensacola Christian College will be with us July 12 for a powerful service featuring uplifting music and biblical preaching.

Sunday School: 9:30 AM | Sunday Worship: 10:30 AM | Sunday Fellowship: 11:30 AM | Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00 PM | Thursday Prayer Group: 6:30 PM

Maplewood Baptist Church. All rights reserved.

About Us

Welcome to Maplewood baptist church

At Maplewood Baptist Church, we are a King James Bible-believing fellowship in Martinsburg, West Virginia, welcoming families and individuals into a personal, growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning home, there’s a place for you here.

MISSION STATEMENT: (The reason we exist) - Matthew 28:18-20
"Maplewood Baptist Church exists to win the lost, and develop the saved into fully functioning followers of Jesus Christ (Matt. 28:18-20)."
VISION STATEMENT: (How to fulfill our mission) - Acts 2:41-47
Followers of Jesus Christ are identified by:
- Conversion (Jesus is my Savior) … Salvation
- Commitment (Jesus is my Lord) … Baptism
- Contribution (I have a ministry) … Active Church Member

Meet Our Pastor

Pastor Carroll Williams has faithfully served Maplewood Baptist Church since 1994. A graduate of Liberty University and Texas Baptist Institute-Seminary, he has dedicated his ministry to preaching truth with love, guiding families, and growing disciples of Christ.

Pastor Williams was saved in a Sunday evening preaching service, baptized a few weeks later, and began serving the Lord in his local church. At the age of twenty-two, he submitted to the call of God upon his life to enter into ministry and preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Bible school training ensued to prepare for a life of ministry work. He has been a pastor for 37 years, 31 years in his current pastorate at Maplewood Baptist Church. He has been married to his dear wife, Vinia, for thirty-eight years. They have two sons and one daughter.

Education:
Liberty University: Bachelor of Science in Multi-Disciplinary Studies with a concentration in Psychology and Religion.
Texas Baptist Institute & Seminary: Bachelor of Bible English, Bachelor of Theology, Master of Theology, Doctor of Theology.

Contact

Have a question, need prayer, or planning a visit? We'd be honored to connect with you.“Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love…” (Romans 12:10)You can contact us directly using the form on the left or call us at (304) 263‑1484.We’re praying for you and can’t wait to meet you!

What We Believe

The Great Commandment
We believe that love one for another as Jesus loves the believer manifests our discipleship and proves our love for God. Love is, therefore, the great commandment of the LORD Jesus Christ upon which all others are dependent.
Reference: Matt.22:35-40; John 13:34,35; John 15:12; 1 John 4:7-21; 1 John 5:1-3; Rev. 2:4-5

Creation
We believe in the Genesis account of Creation.
Reference: Genesis 1&2

Satan
We believe that Satan is a fallen angel, the archenemy of God and man, the unholy god of this world, and that his destiny is the eternal lake of fire.
Reference: Isa.14:12-15; Ezek.28:11-19; Matt.25:41; 2 Cor. 4:4; Eph.6:10-17; Rev.20:10

The Virgin Birth
We believe in the Virgin Birth and sinless humanity of Jesus Christ.
Reference: Matt.1:18-20; 2 Cor.5:21; 1 Peter 2:22

The Atonement
We believe that the suffering and death of Jesus Christ was substitutionary for all mankind and is efficacious only to those who believe.
Reference: Isa.53:6; Heb.2:9; 1 Peter 2:24; 1 Peter 3:18; 2 Peter 3:9; 1 John 2:2

The Resurrection
We believe in the bodily resurrection and ascension of Jesus, and the bodily resurrection of His saints.
Reference: Matt. 28:1-7; Acts 1:9-11; 1 Cor. 15:42-58; 1 Thes. 4:13-18

The Return of Christ
We believe in the premillennial, personal, bodily return of Christ as the crowning event of the Gentile age. This event will include the resurrection of the righteous to eternal heaven, and the Millennium will be followed by the resurrection of the unrighteous unto eternal punishment in the lake of fire, and that the righteous shall enter into the heaven age.
Reference: John 14:1-6; 1 Thes. 4:13-18; 2 Thes. 2:8; Rev. 19; Rev. 20:4-6; Rev. 20:11-15; Rev. 21:8

Salvation
We believe that the depraved sinner is saved wholly by grace through faith in Jesus Christ, and the requisites to regeneration are repentance toward God and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ
Reference: Luke 13:3-5; John 3:16-18; Acts 20:21; Rom. 6:23; Eph. 2:8,9

The Ordinances
We believe that there are two pictorial ordinances in the Lord’s churches: Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. Scriptural baptism is the immersion of penitent believers in water and can be administered only by the authority of a New Testament church in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The Lord’s Supper is a memorial ordinance, restricted to the members of the local church observing the ordinance.
Reference: Matt. 28:19,20; Acts 8:12, 38; Rom. 6:4; 1 Cor. 5:11-13; 1 Cor. 11:1,2,17-20, 26

The Freedom of Worship
We believe in freedom of worship without interference from the government, and affirm our belief in civil obedience, unless the laws and regulations of civil government run contrary to the Holy Scriptures.
Reference: Rom. 13:1-7; 1 Peter 2:13-15

The Bible
We believe in the infallible, verbal inspiration of the whole Bible, and that the Bible is the all-sufficient rule of faith and practice.
Reference: Psalm 119:160; 2 Tim. 3:16,17

The Triune God
We believe there is but one God, a personal triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Sprit. Equal in divine perfection.
Reference: Mark 12:29, I Cor. 8:4, I Tim.2:5, I John 5:7

The Deity of Christ
We believe in the Deity of Jesus Christ.
Reference: John 10:30; John 1:1,14; 2 Cor. 5:19

The Role of the Holy Spirit in the Church
We believe that the Holy Spirit is the divine Administrator for Jesus Christ in His churches.
Reference: Luke 24:49; John 14:16-17; Acts 1:4,5,8; Acts 2:1-4

The Spiritual Gifts
We believe that miraculous spiritual manifestation gifts were done away when the Bible was completed. Faith, Hope, and Love are the vital abiding Spiritual Gifts.
Reference: 1 Cor. Chapters 12, 13, 14

Sin
We believe that man was created in the image of God, and lived in innocence until he fell by voluntary transgression from his sinless state, the result being that all mankind are sinners.
Reference: Gen.1:26; Gen.3:6-24; Rom.5:12,19

Eternal Security
We believe that all who trust Jesus Christ for salvation are eternally secure in Him and shall not perish.
Reference: John 3:36; John 5:24; John 10:27-30; Rom. 8:35-39; Heb. 10:39; 1 Peter 1:5

God’s Dealings With People
We believe that God deals with believers as His children, that He chastises the disobedient, and that He rewards the obedient.
Reference: Matt. 16:27; Matt. 25:14-23; John 1:12; Heb. 12:5-11; 2 John 8; Rev. 22:12

The Origin of the Church
We believe that Jesus Christ established His church during His ministry on earth, and that it is always a local, visible assembly of scripturally baptized believers in covenant relationship to carry out the Commission of the Lord Jesus Christ, and each church is an independent, self-governing body, and no other ecclesiastical body may exercise authority over it. We believe that Jesus Christ gave the Great Commission to the New Testament churches only, and that He promised the perpetuity of His churches.
Reference: Matt. 4:18-22; Matt. 16:18; Matt. 28:19,20; Mark 1:14-20; John 1:35-51; Eph. 3:21

Church Offices
We believe that there are two divinely appointed offices in a church; pastors and deacons, to be filled by men whose qualifications are set forth in Titus 1:5-9, and 1 Timothy 3:1-13.
Reference: Titus 1:5-9; 1 Tim. 3:1-13

The Independence of the Churches
We believe that all associations, fellowships, and committees are, and properly should be, servants of, and under control of the churches.
Reference: Matt. 20:25-28

Ministries

DiscipleshipYouth & ChildrenVacation Bible SchoolLadies FellowshipMen's FellowshipVisitation MinistryMissions & OutreachNursing Home VisitationBus Ministry

Discipleship

Discipleship at Maplewood Baptist Church is centered on helping believers grow in their knowledge of God’s Word and faithfully follow Jesus Christ in everyday life. Through preaching, Sunday School, Bible study, personal encouragement, and opportunities to serve, we seek to help Christians mature in faith and become fully functioning followers of Christ.

Youth & Children’s Ministry

At Maplewood Baptist Church, our Youth and Children’s Ministry exists to partner with families in nurturing faith, character, and a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. Through age-appropriate Bible teaching, meaningful activities, and loving mentorship, children and teens are encouraged to learn God’s Word, ask questions, build friendships, and live out their faith in everyday life.We believe every child is a gift from God, and our goal is to provide a safe, joyful, and Christ-centered environment where they can grow spiritually and feel deeply loved.

Vacation Bible School

Vacation Bible School at Maplewood Baptist Church is a fun-filled week where children learn about God’s truth through Bible lessons, music, games, crafts, and hands-on activities. Each day is designed to help kids grow in their understanding of Scripture while building friendships and making joyful memories.VBS is a safe, welcoming environment where children are encouraged to ask questions, have fun, and discover how God’s Word applies to their everyday lives.

Ladies Ministry

The Ladies Ministry at Maplewood Baptist Church is a place for women of all ages to grow in faith, build meaningful friendships, and encourage one another in Christ. Through Bible study, fellowship, prayer, and special gatherings, women are strengthened in God’s Word and supported in every season of life.Our desire is to create a welcoming, Christ-centered environment where women can connect, be refreshed, and walk together in spiritual growth.

Visitation Ministry

The Visitation Ministry at Maplewood Baptist Church is dedicated to sharing Christ’s love through personal connection and care. This ministry reaches out to those who are sick, homebound, grieving, or in need of encouragement through prayer, Scripture, and meaningful presence.By visiting, listening, and walking alongside others, we seek to reflect the love of Christ and remind each person that they are not forgotten and never alone.

Mens Fellowship

The Men’s Fellowship at Maplewood Baptist Church brings men together to grow in faith, build lasting friendships, and encourage one another to live out biblical manhood. Through Bible study, prayer, service, and fellowship, men are challenged to lead with integrity, humility, and faithfulness in their homes, church, and community.Our goal is to strengthen men in God’s Word and to walk together as brothers in Christ.

Missions & Outreach

The Missions & Outreach ministry at Maplewood Baptist Church exists to share the love of Christ both locally and beyond. Through prayer, service, giving, and hands-on outreach, we seek to meet spiritual and practical needs while pointing others to the hope found in Jesus Christ.Whether supporting missionaries, serving our community, or responding to needs as they arise, our desire is to faithfully carry out Christ’s command to love our neighbors and make disciples.

Nursing Home Visitation

The Nursing Home Visitation ministry at Maplewood Baptist Church seeks to share Christ’s love with residents through presence, prayer, Scripture, and encouragement. By spending time listening, singing hymns, reading God’s Word, and offering fellowship, we aim to bring comfort, hope, and spiritual refreshment to those who may feel forgotten or alone.This ministry is a meaningful way to serve others and reflect the compassion and care of Jesus Christ to those in their later seasons of life.

Bus Ministry

The Bus Ministry at Maplewood Baptist Church is dedicated to helping people attend church by providing safe, reliable transportation to services and special events. This ministry reaches out to children, families, and individuals who may not otherwise have a way to come, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to hear God’s Word and be part of our church family.Through faithful service and loving care, the Bus Ministry reflects Christ’s heart by removing barriers and extending an open invitation to worship and fellowship.

Sermon Notes & Bible Studies

Explore sermon notes and Bible studies from Maplewood Baptist Church. Use these resources to review weekly messages, study the Scriptures more deeply, and continue growing throughout the week. When available, select the RSS link to listen to the full sermon.

TitleServiceDateLinks
One Nation Under God: Freedom’s FoundationSunday AM07/05/2026Notes | RSS
The Ministry of Jesus BeginsSunday School07/05/2026Notes | RSS
The Tragic Turning of Solomon’s HeartWednesday PM07/01/2026Notes | RSS
A Responsible, Godly FatherSunday AM06/21/2026Notes | RSS
Church-Sent Missions: The Antioch PrincipleSunday School06/21/2026Notes | RSS
“Mission Accomplished”Sunday AM06/14/2026Notes | RSS
The Gospel According to Luke: Preparing the Way for the Ministry of Jesus ChristSunday School06/14/2026Notes | RSS
“Coming Home to the Father”Sunday AM06/07/2026Notes | RSS
Spiritual Radiance: Is Your Little Light Still Shining? Pastor NotesSunday School06/07/2026Notes | RSS
Unfailing ThingsSunday AM05/31/2026Notes | RSS
Heaven: The Dwelling Place of God and the Hope of the BelieverSunday School05/31/2026Notes | RSS
Integrity Before God: Staying Faithful in a Worldly AgeSunday AM05/24/2026Notes | RSS
Heaven: A Real Eternal Place for BelieversSunday School05/24/2026Notes | RSS
RejoiceSunday School04/26/2026Notes
The Reign of Solomon BeginsWednesday PM03/25/2026Notes
Kingdom WarriorsSunday AM03/22/2026Notes
Christ on the Road to CalvarySunday School03/22/2026Notes
1 Kings 3Wednesday PM03/18/2026Notes
FaithSunday AM03/15/2026Notes
Commitment in the Face of the CrossSunday School03/15/2026Notes
1 Kings 2Wednesday PM03/11/2026Notes
Are You Willing?Sunday AM03/08/2026Notes
The Marriage Supper of the LambSunday School03/08/2026Notes
Jude 1:1-3, 17-23Wednesday PM03/04/2026Notes
The Passover, Judas, and the Lord’s SupperSunday School03/01/2026Notes
The Final Charge of King DavidWednesday PM02/25/2026Notes
The Greatest Act of LoveSunday AM02/15/2026Notes
Growing in Christian CharacterSunday School02/15/2026Notes
2 Samuel 24Wednesday PM02/11/2026Notes
2 Samuel 22Wednesday PM01/28/2026Notes
2 Samuel 21Wednesday PM01/21/2026Notes
The Believer and the ChurchSunday AM01/18/2026Notes
Baptism: A Key Step in DiscipleshipSunday AM01/11/2026Notes
2 Samuel 20Wednesday PM01/07/2026Notes
Pressing Towards the MarkSunday AM01/04/2026Notes

Spy U: Uncovering Counterfeits, Discovering the One True God

Vacation Bible School 2028

Date TBD | 6:00 PM to 8:45 PM

Click play button twice to play video

VBS Promo Video

Watch the video above to catch a glimpse of the adventure ahead. We would love for your family to join us this summer!Registration at the door

Download the Registration below to hand in at the door

Calling all secret agents! At Spy U Vacation Bible School, children will investigate God’s Word, uncover counterfeit ideas about God, and discover the truth about the one true God.Through engaging Bible lessons, music, games, crafts, and exciting spy-themed activities, kids will collect clues, crack codes, and learn who God is, how Jesus came to rescue us, and why God should be our first love. Get ready for a week of discovery, adventure, and biblical truth at Maplewood Baptist Church!

Emerald Crossing: An Irish Adventure Through Psalm 23

Vacation Bible School 2027 | Date: TBD

Click play button twice to play video

VBS Promo Video

Watch the video above to catch a glimpse of the adventure ahead. We would love for your family to join us this summer!Registration at the door

In a world filled with worry and confusion, kids need to know there is a God who cares for them. At Emerald Crossing VBS, children will journey through Ireland’s lush landscapes, explore the powerful truths of Psalm 23, and discover how the Good Shepherd leads, protects, and cares for His people.Get your passport ready for Ireland and join us for an unforgettable Vacation Bible School adventure at Maplewood Baptist Church. At Emerald Crossing VBS, kids will learn about the life of the shepherd-king David and discover how to cross from anxiety to peace, from fear to faith, and from uncertainty to a firm foundation in God’s Word through a relationship with the Good Shepherd.

Why is KJV Important?

Matthew & Luke Passages

PassageKJV (AV)NIVNASBNWT
Matthew 9:13For I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners.For I came to call, not righteous people, but sinners.
Matthew 18:11For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.OMITTEDFootnote casts doubtOMITTED
Matthew 19:17Why callest thou me good?Why do you ask me about what is good?Why are you asking me about what is good?Why do you ask me about what is good?
Matthew 25:13Ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.You do not know the day or the hour.You do not know the day nor the hour.You know neither the day nor the hour.
Mark 10:24How hard it is for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!How hard it is to enter the kingdom of God!How hard it is to enter the kingdom of God!How difficult a thing it is to enter into the kingdom of God!
Luke 2:33And Joseph and his mother…The child’s father and motherHis father and motherIts father and mother
Luke 4:4Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.Man does not live on bread alone.Man shall not live on bread alone.Man must not live by bread alone.
Luke 4:8Get thee behind me, Satan.OMITTEDOMITTEDOMITTED

John & Acts Passages

PassageKJV (AV)NIVNASBNWT
John 6:47He that believeth on me hath everlasting life.He who believes has everlasting life.He who believes has eternal life.He that believes has everlasting life.
John 8:9Convicted by their own conscience, went out.Began to go awayBegan to go out one by oneOMITTED
John 9:4I must work the works of him that sent me.We must do the workWe must work the worksWe must work the works
John 10:30I and my Father are oneI and the Father are oneI and the Father are oneI and the Father are one
Acts 2:30Raise up Christ to sit on his thronePlace one descendantSeat one descendantFruitage of his loins
Acts 8:37Full confession of ChristOMITTEDFootnote doubtOMITTED
Acts 23:9Let us not fight against GodOMITTEDOMITTEDOMITTED
Romans 13:9Thou shalt not bear false witnessOMITTEDOMITTEDOMITTED

Epistles & Revelation Passages

PassageKJV (AV)NIVNASBNWT
Colossians 1:14Redemption through his bloodRedemptionRedemptionRelease by ransom
1 Timothy 3:16God was manifest in the fleshHe appeared in a bodyHe who was revealedHe was made manifest
1 Timothy 6:5From such withdraw thyselfPhrase omittedPhrase omittedPhrase omitted
1 Peter 1:22Through the SpiritOmittedOmittedOmitted
1 John 4:3Jesus Christ is come in the fleshDoes not acknowledge JesusDoes not confess JesusDoes not originate with God
Revelation 5:14Worshipped him that liveth foreverWorshippedWorshippedWorshipped
Revelation 20:9From God out of heavenFrom heavenFrom heavenOut of heaven
Revelation 21:24Them which are savedNations will walkNations shall walkNations will walk

Passage from the Original KJV 1611

John 3:16
16 For God so loued ye world, that he gaue his only begotten Sonne: that whosoeuer beleeueth in him, should not perish, but haue euerlasting life.
17 For God sent not his Sonne into the world to condemne the world: but that the world through him
might be saued.
18 He that beleeueth on him, is not condemned: but hee that beleeueth not, is condemned already, because hee hath not beleeued in the Name of the onely begotten Sonne of God.Matthew 28:18-20
18 And Iesus came, and spake vnto them, saying, All power is giuen vnto me in heauen and in earth.
19 Goe ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Sonne, and of the holy Ghost:20 Teaching them to obserue all things, whatsoeuer I haue commanded you: and loe, I am with you alway, euen vnto the end of the world. Amen.

Romans 12:1-2
I I beseech you therefore brethren, by the mercies of God, that yee present your bodies a liuing sacrifice, holy, acceptable vnto God, which is your reasonable seruice.
2 And bee not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renuing of your minde, that ye may
proue what is that good, that acceptable and perfect will of God.
Romans 12:17-21
17 Recompence to no man euill for euill. Prouide things honest in the sight of all men.
18 If it be possible, as much as lyeth in you, liue peaceably with all men.19 Dearely beloued, auenge not your selues, but rather giue place vnto wrath: for it is written, U engeance is mine, I will repay, saith the Lord.20 Therefore if thine enemie hunger, feed him: ifhe thirst, giue him drink. For in so doing thou shalt
heape coales of fire on his head.
21 Be not ouercome of euill, but ouercome euill with good.

Differences between KJV and Other Versions

Understanding this principle and taking into consideration the differences of the KJV and the other versions, is it not accurate to say that there is a problem with the two sides on agreement? Since such exists, we must conclude that a conflicting dual authority exists.
a. This is a problem, and it originated with the two lines of Antioch and Alexandria which has produced two manuscripts both claiming heaven's authority. A problem exists, however, when the two manuscripts are compared. The two manuscript lines have produced contradictions and conflict.
b. God does not have two authorities, and He does not have two Bibles.c. He is not the author of confusion.d. The problem of conflicting dual authorities is a tool of the devil to undermine the authority of God. See Genesis and Mark passages again for references.8. If we do not conclude what is the Word of God, we cannot know what to believe on many issues? For example:
a. I Samuel 6:19
b. KJV - 50,070; Amplified - 70 (50,070); NASV- 50,070; NIV - 70

What Should I Expect My First Time Visiting?

Planning Your First VisitVisiting a church for the first time can bring a few questions. We want you to feel welcome and know what to expect before you arrive at Maplewood Baptist Church.What should I expect on Sunday morning?Sunday School begins at 9:30 a.m. and offers Bible teaching for all age groups. Children and teens attend classes organized by age, while adults meet in the sanctuary for an informal Bible lesson.The adult class allows more time for in-depth and verse-by-verse teaching than a regular worship service may allow. Pastor Williams encourages questions and discussion as we study God’s Word together. Sunday School usually begins with brief announcements and prayer and concludes around 10:20 a.m., leaving approximately five to ten minutes before the morning worship service.Morning worship begins at 10:30 a.m. and includes announcements, congregational hymns, prayer, Bible preaching, an invitation, and dismissal. Our music consists primarily of traditional hymns led by piano, with occasional recorded accompaniment.During one of the hymns, we have a time of fellowship when members greet one another and welcome our visitors. You can expect friendly greetings and handshakes, but you will not be asked to speak or introduce yourself publicly.All preaching and teaching at Maplewood is centered on the Bible. Sunday morning preaching is generally doctrinal, gospel-centered, traditional, and practical. Sunday School and Wednesday Bible study often provide additional time for deeper, verse-by-verse teaching and discussion.The Lord’s Supper is ordinarily observed about twice each year. Maplewood practices closed communion, which means participation is reserved for members of Maplewood Baptist Church in accordance with our understanding of the biblical instructions regarding the Lord’s Supper. You may learn more about this and our other doctrinal positions on our What We Believe page.What should I wear?You will find people wearing a range of Sunday attire, generally from business casual to more traditional church clothing. It is also not unusual to see someone wearing jeans and a polo shirt.Our members seek to dress modestly and reverently when gathering for worship, but we do not want concerns about clothing to prevent anyone from attending. Visitors are encouraged to come as they are and will not be criticized, singled out, or made to feel unwelcome because of what they are wearing.The same welcoming approach applies to adults, teens, and children.Where should I park and enter?Maplewood has one main parking lot, and the primary church entrance is easy to identify near the church sign. There is a separate entrance leading into the gymnasium, but the main entrance is clearly visible from the parking lot.A greeter and door attendant will normally be available at the main entrance on Sunday mornings. They will be glad to welcome you, answer your questions, and help you find the sanctuary, nursery, or appropriate classroom.The main entrance is wheelchair accessible.What is available for children and teens?Sunday School classes are available for children and teens beginning at 9:30 a.m. Classes are generally organized into the following age groups:* Nursery
* Kindergarten through third grade
* Fourth through sixth grade
* Teens
Children’s church is also available during the 10:30 a.m. morning worship service.A nursery is available during both Sunday School and morning worship. Because we may not have infants present every week, the nursery may not already be staffed when you arrive. Please let one of our greeters know if you would like to use it, and we will make sure someone is available to assist you.Children’s and teen Bible studies are also offered on Wednesday evenings. Throughout the year, Maplewood provides additional opportunities for children and teens, including the Proverbs 31 class, Vacation Bible School, and other special events and activities.When you arrive, the door greeter or one of the greeters near the entrance will be happy to help your family find the appropriate classroom. Most children’s classrooms are located to the left after entering the building, and the classroom doors are clearly labeled.May my children remain with me?Yes. Children are always welcome to remain with their parents throughout the worship service. The nursery and children’s church are available as options, but families are not required to use them.Parents are welcome to bring quiet activities for younger children. We understand that babies cry and children sometimes need attention. Normal childhood sounds are not a problem.Should your child become especially restless or need a break, you are welcome to step outside the sanctuary, care for your child, and return when you are ready. We want families to feel comfortable attending and participating in worship together.How long are the services?Our regular gathering times are approximately:* Sunday School: 9:30–10:20 a.m.
* Sunday Morning Worship: 10:30–11:30 a.m.
* Sunday Fellowship Meal: Approximately 11:30 a.m.–12:00 or 12:15 p.m.
* Wednesday Bible Study: Approximately one hour
Ending times may occasionally vary by about ten minutes depending on the lesson, sermon, or activities that day.What is Sunday Fellowship?Every Sunday following the morning worship service, our church family gathers in the fellowship hall for a potluck lunch.Members voluntarily sign up each week to provide different portions of the meal, and there is always plenty to share. Visitors are warmly invited to stay and are never expected to bring food or contribute anything.We gather around round tables, enjoy a full lunch, and spend time talking and getting to know one another. The meal ordinarily lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes, after which volunteers begin cleaning up.Staying for lunch is completely optional. Visitors are not expected to help with cleanup, although they are welcome to do so. We would simply be glad to have you join us.Will I be asked to introduce myself?You will be warmly welcomed, but you will not be asked to stand, speak, or introduce yourself publicly.Pastor Williams will ordinarily make an effort to meet you personally and may welcome you to the church. Because we have a friendly congregation and include a time of greeting during worship, you can also expect members to introduce themselves and offer a handshake.Visitors may be encouraged to complete a visitor card, but providing your information is entirely optional. We request it only so that we may continue to be an encouragement to you.An offering is received during the service, but visitors are not expected to give. You are welcome to participate should you choose, but there is no obligation.After your visit, you may receive a follow-up call from Pastor Williams or a member of our outreach team. The purpose of that contact is simply to thank you for visiting, answer any questions, and offer encouragement.Is the church accessible?Yes. Our main entrance is wheelchair accessible, and our greeters will be glad to assist you when you arrive.Should you have a specific accessibility concern or need assistance planning your visit, please contact us ahead of time so that we can help make your arrival as comfortable as possible.Do I need to contact anyone before visiting?No advance contact or registration is required. You are welcome simply to come and join us.However, you are also welcome to call, text, or email ahead of time with any questions about the church, children’s classes, accessibility, or what to expect. Please choose whichever option makes you most comfortable.We would be honored to welcome you to Maplewood Baptist Church.