There's a place for you at Village

Local

Warm Nights - temporary shelter for the homeless
Bowie Community Pantry
Souoper Bowl of Caring
Habitat for Humanity
DC Baptist Convention
Hosting local groups like Girl Scouts, AA and Chemically Dependent Anonymous

National

Church World Service - cleanup kits and school kits
Health Kits
Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty
Wycliffe Bible Translators

International

Village to Village - church building in Cameroon
Cooperative Baptist Fellowship
Baptist World Alliance
CBF Gypsy Ministry
Journey Partners
Alliance of Baptists
Missionary serving in Hungary

The King will reply, ‘I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers or sisters of mine, you did for me.’ Matthew 25:40

Communion

Communion is observed the first Sunday of every month and at other special observances such as Maundy Thursday. Communion at Village is open to all who are seeking Christ.

Village follows the Biblical practice of baptizing believers (those old enough to make a personal decision) by immersion, following a profession of faith.
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Or don't you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.
Romans 6: 3-4

Ordination

At Village, deacons are "servants" who try to help church families and assist with church activities, in keeping with the New Testament model. Deacons are elected from all members of the church to serve for three-year terms, after which the deacon is not eligible for election again for a year. Village follows the Deacon Family Ministry Plan. Each deacon has a "flock" of 6 to 8 families as a special focus for care.
New deacons are ordained with the traditional "laying on of hands" by those already ordained.

Infant Dedication

Although Village follows the Biblical practice of baptizing believers (those old enough to make a personal decision), we also recognize the importance of dedicating infants as a commitment to Christian growth.

Weddings

Weddings are important at Village. We celebrate the formation of new families.

WEDDING GUIDE FOR VILLAGE BAPTIST CHURCH Your wedding is one of the most important events you will ever experience. The wedding ceremony expresses the commitment you are making to one another as husband and wife. This wedding guide is intended to enhance your preparations for marriage. Please read the guidelines and complete the Wedding Information Sheet that is available in the Church Office. The Sanctuary will accommodate 220 people and Fellowship Hall accommodates 114.
Counseling Sessions. The minister will meet with the couple prior to the wedding to discuss plans for the ceremony. She will explain the various aspects of the ceremony, and discuss with the couple their particular wishes and concerns. The minister will also discuss the marriage relationship, and Christian ideals for a happy marriage.
The Wedding Rehearsal. For smaller weddings a rehearsal may not be necessary. For a larger wedding a rehearsal is essential. All attendants, musicians, ushers, and other participants should be present. Parents and relatives are welcome to attend. Children must be supervised at all times. The minister will conduct the rehearsal according to the plans discussed. The usual time frame is about an hour.
Music. Music should be appropriate to the occasion. You may supply your own qualified organist, or you may contact the church organist. Discuss with the organist your music preferences and her fee. Vocal selections by soloists, if desired, should also be appropriate. The Photography and/or Videography. Photography and/or videography are permitted during the ceremony. An audio system is available if the use of a CD is preferred. Photographers/videographers should exercise discretion so as not to distract from the proceedings. Formal and informal pictures of the bridal party and family members also may be taken following the ceremony. Throwing of Rice. Rice may not be thrown in the church or on church grounds.
Flowers and Other Decorations. Floral arrangements may be provided. Bows may be affixed to pews, but must not damage furniture or finish. An aisle runner (50 feet), candelabra, or other furnishings are optional. Delivery of flowers to the church before the ceremony must be coordinated with the minister. Pulpit furniture moved before the rehearsal must be replaced after the ceremony.
Marriage License. A Prince George’s County marriage license is required. Applications must be made at the Circuit Court Annex in Upper Marlboro at least two (2) working days before the wedding, earlier if possible. The minister must have the license to perform the ceremony.
Reception. The Village Baptist Church Fellowship Hall is available for wedding receptions for an additional fee. No alcoholic beverages may be served. The kitchen may be used as a staging area, though not for food preparation. No smoking is permitted in any part of the church building.
Expenses of a Church Wedding. The following expenses are incurred for facilities:

Use of sanctuary: $800 (cash or check payable to Village Baptist Church)
Use of fellowship hall & kitchen: $800 (cash or check payable to Village Baptist Church)
Services of the minister: $400 honorarium (cash or check payable to the minister)
Musicians: fee as negotiated

Contact the church office for an application at 301-249-6448.
Village Baptist Church, 1950 Mitchellville Road Bowie, MD 20716

Memorial Garden

The memorial garden is a place for quiet reflection. On Memorial Day we reflect on those we have lost and remember that someday we will be together again.