Is Eaglebrook Chapel An Interdenominational or Non-Denominational Church?
Interdenominational vs Non-Denominational Churches: A Complete Guide from Eaglebrook Chapel
Understanding Church Differences in Point Roberts, Washington & Cross-Border Communities
Understanding Church Types: What New Christians Need to Know
Walking into a church for the first time, you might see terms like "non-denominational," "interdenominational," or "Spirit-filled" and wonder: What's the actual difference? At Eaglebrook Chapel in Point Roberts, Washington, we've chosen to be interdenominational for specific Biblical and practical reasons that affect how we minister to our unique international community spanning the US-Canada border.
Why Church Labels Matter for Your Spiritual Journey
For Point Roberts residents and our extended cross-border family, understanding these distinctions helps you find the right spiritual home. Our geographically isolated community requires a different approach than traditional urban churches
What Makes Eaglebrook Chapel Interdenominational?
Many of us at Eaglebrook Chapel came from traditional evangelical backgrounds. We deeply appreciate churches that welcomed us to explore more of God's gifts without compelling us to participate in supernatural experiences we weren't ready for or didn't clearly understand from Scripture.
"The Holy Spirit doesn't force His gifts on anyone, but He makes them available to all who desire them. We are instructed to earnestly seek them as Jesus insisted on their importance before embarking on winning the world for His cause."
What Does Spirit-Filled Really Mean?
Bridging Denominational Lines for Community Unity
Eaglebrook Chapel exists as an interdenominational community church that transcends traditional denominational boundaries to serve the unique needs of Point Roberts, Washington, and our extended cross-border family. In a geographically isolated community like ours, unity in Christ is more important than minor denominational differences.
Our Unique Geographic Reality: Serving Two Nations
Point Roberts faces distinctive challenges:
Physical isolation requiring border crossings for essential services
Limited transportation options with no ferry service
Restricted, seasonal air travel accessibility
Community members who cannot freely cross international borders
Small population requiring creative approaches to ministry and outreach
Non-Denominational vs Interdenominational: Key Differences
Non-Denominational Churches: Starting Fresh
Non-denominational churches typically:
Reject formal denominational structures entirely
Start with a "clean slate" approach to doctrine
Focus on "just the Bible" without traditional frameworks
Often led by independent pastoral leadership
May inadvertently create new denominational patterns over time
"Many non-denominational churches have good intentions, but due to arguments and offenses, they sometimes leave behind valuable historical wisdom by rejecting all traditional church structure."
Interdenominational Churches: Unity Through Diversity
Interdenominational churches like Eaglebrook Chapel:
Welcome believers from ALL Christian backgrounds
Recognize truth found across denominational lines
Maintain Biblical core while embracing diverse expressions
Foster unity without requiring uniformity
Bridge gaps between Baptist, Methodist, Pentecostal, Presbyterian, Anglican, and other traditions
Biblical Foundation for Our Interdenominational Approach
"I do not pray for these alone, but also for those who will believe in Me through their word; that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me." John 17:20-21 (AMPC)
"There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. There are differences of ministries, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of activities, but it is the same God who works all in all." 1 Corinthians 12:4-6 (AMPC)
Jesus prayed for unity among believers, not uniformity in expression. Interdenominational ministry reflects
Who We Welcome at Eaglebrook Chapel
Our Cross-Border Community Includes:
From British Columbia, Canada:
Tsawwassen and Ladner (traditional Anglican/United Church backgrounds)
Richmond (multicultural evangelical and Pentecostal traditions)
White Rock and Delta (Presbyterian and Baptist heritage)
Surrey and Abbotsford (diverse charismatic and traditional churches)
From Washington State:
Point Roberts (our home base with diverse backgrounds)
Blaine, Lynden, Sumas (traditional Lutheran, Baptist, Methodist)
Ferndale and Bellingham (Whatcom County - varied denominational mix)
Skagit and Snohomish Counties (Catholic converts, evangelical transfers)
We Welcome All Christian Backgrounds:
Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian, Lutheran traditions
Pentecostal, Charismatic, and Spirit-filled believers
Catholic and Orthodox Christians seeking fellowship
Independent and non-denominational believers
New believers exploring faith for the first time
People from any nation or background exploring Christianity
Our Full Gospel Approach
Our interdenominational stance allows us to embrace:
Salvation by faith (shared by all evangelicals)
Water baptism (practiced across traditions)
Holy Spirit baptism (with gifts available today)
Divine healing (through prayer and faith)
How Interdenominational Ministry Works in Practice
Worship Style at Eaglebrook Chapel
Traditional hymns, gospel choruses AND contemporary worship
Preplanned readings AND spontaneous prayer
Structured teaching AND charismatic expressions
Regular 'believer's meetings' where people share testimonies and Biblical insights
Ministry Approach
Biblical preaching that respects different theological perspectives
Spirit-filled services with room for various spiritual gifts
Cross-border community outreach serving regardless of nationality or church background
Family ministry welcoming all ages
Devotion to prayer and personal character development
Evangelism Strategy for International Community
Our unique border location allows us to effectively reach our international community because we:
Seek salvation and reconciliation with God for people outside the church
Reduce barriers for understanding the Bible and Christian lifestyle practices
Focus on Jesus' return rather than secondary theological issues
Welcome people to 'come as they are' - no lectures, guilt, or shaming
Community-Centered Ministry Philosophy
1. Community Support Network
Assistance for widows and elderly residents
Support for families facing cross-border challenges
Practical help during medical emergencies or travel restrictions
Resource sharing for essential needs
2. Cross-Border Fellowship
Welcome to our Canadian neighbors from BC communities
Regional connection to Washington State believers
Border-sensitive locations for gatherings and events
No difference observed between American and Canadian Christian communities
3. Flexible Ministry Approach
Multiple service options accommodating border crossing restrictions
Home fellowship groups for those unable to travel
Digital connectivity for isolated community members
Emergency pastoral care regardless of denominational background
Common Questions About Interdenominational Churches
"Doesn't this lead to watered-down doctrine?"
No. We maintain strong Biblical foundations while allowing freedom in non-essential practices. Our core beliefs align with historic Christianity while embracing the full gospel message that resonates across denominations.
"How do you handle theological disagreements between traditions?"
We distinguish between essential doctrines (salvation, Trinity, Scripture) and secondary issues (worship styles, spiritual gift expressions, church governance). Unity around essentials, freedom in non-essentials.
"Is this the same as being ecumenical?"
Not really. Ecumenical movements often compromise core gospel truths for unity. Our interdenominational approach maintains Biblical truth while embracing diverse expressions of authentic Christianity.
Why This Matters for Cross-Border Families
Our unique geographic position at the US-Canada border serves believers from incredibly diverse church backgrounds. An interdenominational approach:
Welcomes people from all over the world with varied church experiences
Serves international families where denominational options cross national lines
Bridges Canadian/American cultural differences
Provides stability for families transitioning between countries
Creates community for visitors from Tsawwassen to Bellingham
What to Expect at Eaglebrook Chapel
For Visitors From Traditional Denominations
Whether you're from:
Traditional denomination seeking Spirit-filled worship and joy
Evangelical background curious about spiritual gifts
Pentecostal heritage wanting deeper Biblical teaching
Catholic or Orthodox exploring charismatic expression
Unchurched background from either side of the border
Our Interdenominational Approach Creates Space For:
✓ Authentic worship in your comfort zone ✓ Biblical teaching that respects your background ✓ Spiritual growth without denominational pressure ✓ Cross-border community service focused on local impact ✓ Family ministry that strengthens relationships
Churches Have Personalities Like Families
We welcome you to join us while you may attend a different church, knowing that you will find the best fit for you and your family. Every church has its own expression and activity levels
Our Commitment to Point Roberts & Surrounding Areas
We exist to serve this community by:
Providing consistent spiritual care regardless of denominational preference
Offering practical support during isolation challenges
Creating inclusive fellowship that welcomes all Christian believers
Serving as a community resource for spiritual and practical needs
Building cross-border relationships that strengthen regional Christian unity
Experience Unity in Diversity
An Open Invitation
Whether you are:
A longtime or new Point Roberts resident
A Canadian visitor exploring faith
A regional believer seeking fellowship
Someone facing life challenges needing support
A family wanting Christian community for your children
Visit Us This Sunday in Point Roberts
Located in Point Roberts, Washington, we're easily accessible from:
From Canada: Tsawwassen, Ladner, Richmond, White Rock, Delta, Surrey, Abbotsford From Washington: Blaine, Lynden, Sumas, Ferndale, Bellingham, Whatcom County
Experience Spirit-filled Christianity that welcomes your background, respects your pace, and offers Biblical spiritual experiences without pressure or judgment.
Contact & Location Information
Eaglebrook Chapel
Location: Point Roberts, Washington (US-Canada Border)
Focus: Spirit-filled, full gospel, interdenominational
Approach: Biblically grounded, relationally warm, no pressure
Eaglebrook Chapel: Where Biblical truth meets supernatural reality in a welcoming environment
"For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them." - Matthew 18:20
In a place where geography can divide, we choose to let Christ unite.
Eaglebrook Chapel: Where different traditions and nationalities unite around the same Lord