The church is all about relationships–it exists to help us connect with God and connect with other people. As we worship together and as we partner in Jesus' name with local and international agencies, we want our lives to reflect love for God and for our neighbors.
Worship
Dynamic music, practical sermons and congregational participation characterize worship at Mattis Avenue. Celebration is the focus. Music is a blend of contemporary songs and hymns. Sermons are scripture-based. Active participation of teens and children in the service is encouraged.
Prayer Chain
The Prayer Chain sends requests through a "chain" of persons committed to the ministry of prayer. Needs may be submitted by telephone to the church office (217/355-5947) or by email (mafmcweb(at)mattisave.org).
To join the prayer chain, call or email the church office.
Small Groups
Small groups give opportunities for close friendships and meaningful sharing and 
are a great way to get connected to the body. Groups meet on Sunday evenings as well as other days throughout the week. Some are weekly, others bi-weekly or monthly. Anyone interested in joining a small group, should contact the church Office Manager.
Adult Sunday School
Sunday School is not just for children! Adult classes meet during children’s Sunday School and take up such topics as bioethics, the history of the Bible, parenting teens, and inductive Bible study.
Alpha Course
The popular ten-week Alpha Course, offered several times a year, is a great introduction to faith as well as a review of the basics of Christianity.
Fellowship and Sports Activities
Mattis Avenue men and women take time to relax and to play. Frequent fellowship dinners provide a chance to visit with friends and sports teams compete in basketball, baseball and volleyball. Spontaneous events occur, as well—a canoe trip on a nearby river, or a Friday night dinner out for a group of women.
Missions and Community Service
Service activities include partnering with local agencies like Restoration Urban Ministries and Empty Tomb. The Parish Nursing ministry provides a variety of services to promote congregational and community wholeness and health.
Other projects have taken the shape of mission trips, including church-building in Dominican Republic and Mexico, basketball and faith-sharing in the Philippines, and teaching in Malawi. In addition, Mattis Avenue supports a number of children in developing countries through individuals' participation in the Free Methodist Child Sponsorship program. Contact the church for further details about this program.
Ministry Teams
At Mattis Avenue the various ministries of the church are carried out by eight ministry teams, each with approximately six members. Ministry teams include Christian education, fellowship, finance, property, missions, outreach, stewards, and worship. Volunteers are always needed to help with these ministries. Persons who would like to serve and are not sure which ministry would fit them best, should ask Pastor Herb Coates about taking the Spiritual Gifts Inventory.
Administrative Board
The administrative board of 15 members meets monthly and handles the general oversight, long-range planning and business of the church.
At Mattis Avenue we know that people need people and people need God. Worshiping, praying, serving and sharing tears and laughter are all important. We want to be a church where people feel welcome, whether young or old, married or single, rich or poor.
