You’re driving down Madison Avenue in Middletown, Ohio, and you see it. It’s not just a building; it’s a landmark. Middletown First Church of God has been a fixture in this community for a long time, but if you haven’t stepped inside, it’s easy to wonder what actually happens behind those doors. Is it just another traditional steeple in a town full of them? Or is there something more? Honestly, walking into a new church can feel like walking into a party where you don't know the host. It’s awkward. You don't know the "unspoken rules." But here’s the thing: this specific congregation has built its reputation on being the exact opposite of that "closed-door" vibe.
They’re part of a movement. Specifically, the Church of God (Anderson, Indiana) reformation movement. This isn’t a small detail. It means they don’t do the whole "formal membership" thing the way most people expect. They believe that if you’re a follower of Christ, you’re already a member. Simple. No hoops to jump through. No complex vetting process. It’s a theology of inclusion that shapes everything they do, from the way they handle Sunday morning coffee to how they run their community outreach programs.
The Reality of Sunday Mornings at Middletown First Church of God
If you’re looking for a high-production rock concert, you might be surprised. If you’re looking for a stuffy, organ-only funeral vibe, you’ll also be surprised. The worship style at Middletown First Church of God sits in that comfortable middle ground. It’s authentic. You’ll hear some contemporary songs, maybe a few updated hymns, but the focus isn’t on the light show. It’s on the people.
The service usually kicks off at 10:30 AM. People show up in jeans. Some wear suits. Nobody really cares.
Lead Pastor Brandon Holbrook has a way of teaching that feels more like a conversation over coffee than a lecture from a high-altitude pulpit. He digs into the Bible, sure, but he’s obsessed with how it actually works on a Tuesday afternoon when your boss is yelling at you or your kids won't stop fighting. It's practical. That’s the keyword. There’s a certain "Middletown grit" to the messages—they acknowledge that life is hard and messy, and faith should probably be able to handle that messiness.
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What about the kids?
Parenting is exhausting. They get that. The "Kidz Connect" ministry isn't just a babysitting service so the adults can have a break. It's actually organized. They have background-checked volunteers and a curriculum that doesn't just involve coloring pages of Noah’s Ark. They want kids to actually enjoy being there. If you’ve ever dragged a screaming toddler into a quiet sanctuary, you know the panic. At Middletown First, the culture is very much "noise is fine." They're used to it.
Why the "First" Matters in the Local Context
Middletown has changed. Over the decades, the city has seen the highs of the steel industry and the lows of the opioid epidemic. Through all of it, Middletown First Church of God stayed put. While some congregations moved to the outskirts or built flashy new campuses in the suburbs, this church remained rooted in the heart of the city.
This location matters because of the outreach. They aren't just talking about helping people; they're doing it. They partner with local schools and organizations like the Hope House Mission. It’s not about being a "social club." It’s about being a "service hub." They realize that a church that only exists for the people inside its walls is basically a museum. And they aren't interested in being a museum.
The Theology of Non-Denominationalism (Sorta)
People often get confused about what the Church of God actually is. It's not Pentecostal in the way most people think (it's not the Cleveland, TN branch). It’s not strictly Baptist. It’s a "holiness" movement. Basically, they believe that God can actually change your character. They emphasize unity. Because they don't have a massive, rigid hierarchy, the local church has a lot of freedom to meet the specific needs of Middletown.
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This means:
- No formal creeds that you have to memorize to be "in."
- An emphasis on the "priesthood of all believers," which is just a fancy way of saying everyone has a job to do.
- A focus on "holistic salvation"—which means God cares about your body, your mind, and your neighborhood, not just your soul.
Finding Community Beyond the Pews
Sundays are just the "front door." The real stuff happens in Small Groups. This is where you find out who actually likes the Bengals and who’s struggling with their marriage.
If you just attend on Sundays, you’re getting about 10% of the experience. The church hosts various groups throughout the week that meet in homes or at the church building on Madison. These aren't just Bible studies. Some are focused on hobbies, others on recovery, and some are just for moms who need a safe place to vent while their kids play. It’s about "Life Groups." Because life is better when you aren't doing it alone. Honestly.
The Challenges of a Legacy Church
Let’s be real for a second. Middletown First Church of God is a legacy church. It has history. Sometimes history comes with baggage. They have to balance the traditions of the older generation with the needs of young families who want something different. It’s a tension. You’ll see it in the way they choose songs or plan events. But that tension is also a strength. It means you have 80-year-olds mentoring 20-year-olds. That kind of intergenerational connection is becoming rare in our world, and it’s one of the most valuable things they offer.
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Actionable Steps for Your First Visit
If you’re thinking about checking out Middletown First Church of God, don't just wing it. Here is how to make the most of it:
- Check the website first. Look at the recent sermons online. It’ll give you a feel for Pastor Brandon’s style so you aren't surprised by the vibe.
- Arrive 15 minutes early. The parking lot can get a bit tight, and if you have kids, you’ll want time to check them into the children’s wing without feeling rushed.
- Head to the "Connect" area. There are usually people there whose literal job is to make sure you don't feel like a stranger. Ask them where the bathrooms are. Ask them where the coffee is. They love that stuff.
- Give it three weeks. One Sunday is a snapshot. Three Sundays is a movie. You can't judge a community based on one rainy morning when the sound system might have had a glitch.
- Don't feel pressured to give. If it's your first time, keep your wallet in your pocket. They explicitly tell visitors that the offering is for the "home team." You’re the guest.
Whether you're a lifelong "Church of God-er" or someone who hasn't stepped foot in a church since your cousin’s wedding in 2004, the door is open. In a world that feels increasingly divided and lonely, finding a place where people actually know your name—and actually care how your week went—is worth the initial awkwardness of walking through a new door.
Middletown First Church of God isn't perfect. No church is. But it is a group of people trying to figure out how to love God and love Middletown at the same time. And honestly, that’s a pretty good place to start.
Next Steps for Newcomers:
Visit the church at 701 Madison Ave, Middletown, OH 45044. If you aren't ready for a physical visit, watch a livestreamed service on their official Facebook page or YouTube channel to get a feel for the environment. For specific questions regarding childcare or community assistance, use the contact form on their official website to reach out to the administrative staff directly.