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Church Worship Service

By , About.com Guide

Altar Call
Altar Call

Altar Call

Image © Calvary Chapel St. Petersburg
Not all Christian churches observe a formal altar call, but it is common enough to make mention of the practice. This is a time when the speaker gives the members of the congregation an opportunity to respond to the message.

For example, if the message focused on being a godly example to your children, the speaker may ask parents to make a commitment to strive toward certain goals. A message about salvation may be followed by an opportunity for people to publicly declare their decision to follow Christ. Sometimes the response can be expressed with a hand raised or a discreet look toward the speaker. Other times the speaker will call for responders to come forward to the altar. Oftentimes a private, silent prayer is also encouraged.

Although a response to a message is not always necessary, it can often help solidify a commitment toward change.

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