Frequently Asked Questions
we get a lot of questions
Here are just a few:
FAQ: Why another church? Don't we have enough already?
The short answer is no. The long answer is that at most 20 percent of people in Cullman will go to church this weekend. Look around. There are churches everywhere. This tells us that there's a disconnect somewhere. Maybe people just aren't able to find a church they like or that they feel likes them. We think our way of doing church might be appealing to some.
FAQ: What denomination is this?
Catalyst is non-denominational, meaning we're not affiliated with another church or organization. It also means we're made up of a lot of different faith backgrounds. Our beliefs are shared by many different denominations and we welcome everyone.
FAQ: Where did you get the funny name?
We believe that names are important. They communicate. If you look in the dictionary you will find that the word "catalyst" refers to an agent of change. Our goal as a community is to be defined by our actions, namely, affecting life change in ourselves and others. The message of Jesus is a catalyst in and of itself. We just want to reflect that. And maybe we think you have a funny name.
FAQ: Is this place a cult?
Great question. After all, it's full of people singing songs and drinking the same beloved liquid (in this case, great coffee). Plus, guitars and people dressed comfortably. But seriously. No. Cults tell you what to believe, take away your freedoms and forbid you to leave. Here, you're welcome no matter what you believe, and we want you to experience freedom (including the freedom to leave whenever you want). If that still isn't enough for you, then the answer is "Fine, we're a cult." But we're rubber and you're glue.
FAQ: I absolutely do not believe in God. Am I still welcome?
Yes, you absolutely are welcome. And bring some of your friends. This is a safe place for you and we're not going to cram God down your throat. However, we do expect that you'll be open to at least exploring your questions about God and wrestling with what you find. And we do expect you to believe we're funny. Or at least try to convince us by faking it.
FAQ: Who funds this place?
Let's be clear on who is NOT funding this place: there are no corporate sponsors or franchise affiliations, and there's no phantom fat cat paying for stuff. It's the generosity of everyday people in our community that fuels the life change we experience around here. Our support comes from the normal tithes (10 percent of earnings) and offerings of average folks who love contributing to the kinds of things they see God doing here.
FAQ: Why don't you have your own building?
A couple of reasons. First, we think a church is about the people inside - not about the building. Secondly, buildings = mortgage. They cost a lot to maintain. Rent is cheaper and we don't have to pay to fix the air conditioner or replace the john when some prankster flushes a M-80 down it. For now we believe we can make better use of our resources by building into people and spending money on ministry. That means giving things away. Enjoy the coffee. It's free.
FAQ: What should I wear on Sunday?
Well, this one's tricky. We would tell you to wear anything but some of those Hawaiian shirts are just awful. And pajamas are a little too casual. So how about wearing what you would normally wear when hanging out with friends. Jeans, shorts, flip flops, tees...whatever makes you comfortable.
