That is a question that we get all the time! We are a Baptist church, and we are in the south, so in that regard the answer is yes. But if you are asking if we are a member of the Southern Baptist Convention, then the answer is no. Providence made the decision early in our history to be a part of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, a more progressive group.You can learn more about CBF on our Affiliation Page.

When you come to worship you will find individuals wearing everything from shorts and flip flops, to suits and ties, to a preacher in a robe! We really don't believe God is concerned with what you are wearing ... but rather that you are participating in a meaningful worship experience!

Probably because Providence isn't like other churches! We have a very diverse congregation. A majority of the congregation did not grow up Baptist. They have brought with them a variety of backgrounds--all of which add to the tapestry of Providence. Each person is invited to bring their gifts, their questions, their faith. We share what we have experienced of God, with none of us believing that we have God all figured out. It leads to a rather lively place where everyone is invited to teach and learn and grow.

The best way is to jump in! Find a place of interest: whether it be a Sunday School class, Book Club, one of our choirs or a mission project. Join us on Wednesday nights. Stop someone and ask a question, make a suggestion. Tell us your hopes and dreams; share your passions, your calling and we will connect you to others who share that calling. We are in this together! On a regular basis we also offer a class that we call Providence 101 that gives you more information about Providence. Talk to one of our ministers to see when the next class will be offered.

Wednesday night is the time when community is formed. Our "sanctuary" is transformed as we take all the chair out and put up tables and share a pot luck meal. We really mean pot luck--sometimes it turns out to be pasta night, others it might be chicken night, others it might be dessert night! Following supper we have activities for children and youth while our adults have a time for prayer and Bible Study. Later our adult choir has rehearsal. The entire time is a much more relaxed time (sometimes rather chaotic) but one in which relationships are birthed and nurtured. The first time, just come and experience it!

We don't have a baptistry, but we are surrounded by one! We are located on Daniel Island! We have baptisms at a wonderful spot on the Wando River near Children's Park.

Providence does not believe that baptism is a "hoop you have to jump through" in order to be a member. We believe it is a meaningful experience, and we baptize believers by immersion. But if you have had a meaningful baptism experience, then that is fine with us.

The traditional way is to come to the front of the church during the closing hymn of a worship service and tell the minister that you wish to be a member of the church. You will be introduced to the congregation and they will have an opportunity to welcome you "officially!" We realize that for many this is a foreign, and maybe a terrifying idea! Then come and talk to one of our ministers and let them know of your desire to be a member. They will share that with the congregation and you will be just as welcomed!

Most definitely! While Providence was the first church on Daniel Island, most of our members live elsewhere. About half live East of the Cooper--including Daniel Island, Mt. Pleasant, Huger. The rest are spread across the Lowcountry! We have members who live in downtown Charleston, West Ashley, James Island, John's Island, North Charleston, Summerville, Hanahan. What they have found is a unique community of believers that love and support them. You will find the same thing!