Ecclesia

Went here a while back. From memory, I really enjoyed this coffee shop. It’s quiet, an older crowd and can easily get work done. They have a photo booth. It does not print out pictures (which is so great and green) but you can text them to yourself and I think upload it to Instagram or Facebook.
Pretty sure this is a Christin place as well. There were Bibles and religious self help groups. A rather small group came informBible study and it was so refreshing to see that kind of worship in such a nice place.
When I first showed up, I was not sure if I was at the right place because there were no cars out front or sign advertising the business. If you go around there is a huge parking lot with the shop’s entrance. Lovely place, would definitely recommend.

A great place to worship if you want genuine, unpretentious worship. No high dollar trappings that so many «modern» churches seem to believe is necessary to attract and keep churchgoers.
The messages delivered by Pastor Chris Seay are mostly extemporaneous and heartfelt. I don’t agree with everything he preaches, but I never disagree with his sincerity or his Christian heart. The church lives what it preaches, God’s Word as Christ taught it … centered around God’s love for us.
The church is deeply committed to being what the Bible says we should be. It literally practices what it preaches and how refreshing is that !
The congregation is eclectic and the theme of the service is best termed as modern. Millionaires and the homeless worship at the same service. Clothing runs from torn jeans to designer clothes. Nobody will look down their nose at you for what you are wearing or how you look. The congregation truly reflects the broad spectrum of Houston’s demographic profile and that makes it a very special place to praise God and to give thanks for His many blessings.
You won’t be disappointed if you are seeking a church that has open arms for ALL God’s children.

Contemporary worship, great message and philanthropic.
Everyone is welcomed here. The senior pastor established a culture of acceptance of everyone — race, socio-​economic, sexual orientation, age, etc.
I look forward to growing in faith and eventually serve at this church.

I have only written one Unilocal review in my whole life, but here’s number 2.
I was invited to this church this morning by a friend. I grew up in church but haven’t been in about 25 years. about 5 minutes after I walked in, while waiting for my friend to get coffee from the expensive and fancy church coffee shop, the first and only words spoken directly to me by anyone at Ecclesia were to criticize me for having a Starbucks coffee in my hand, and that I was «threatening» the church’s business by «bringing the enemy in» to the church.
The coffee in my hand was a free coffee that was given to me by a relapsed alcoholic that I check in on at her work at Starbucks every day to make sure she’s doing ok.
I was caught quite off guard and asked the young man if he typically criticized people during his first conversation with them. He responded arrogantly with a smirk, «Sometimes.» I was quite irritated but decided to shrug it off and go sit down and try to get something out of the service. a few minutes later the young man walked up on stage and took his place as the church bassist. Needless to say, I had a bit of a hard time paying attention to the sermon with peace, and will never return to this «church.». Way to go, Ecclesia. WWJD

What a unique church! Set up in a building with a warehouse feel, I lit up when my cousin – a regular member of Ecclesia – informed me that the church had amazing coffee. That, they did.
As I stood in line at the coffee shop, I gazed upon the congregation and felt almost ashamed of myself for noticing some strikingly attractive people. I couldn’t help but think that this would be a great place to meet a potential spouse. Maybe Prince Akeem in «Coming to America» was onto something! (I kid. Sorta.)
Due to some unforeseen circumstances, my Sunday best on this special day consisted of a tank top and long cotton skirt. I did not feel self-​conscious because other members wore shorts and other equally casual items of clothing. And guess what? No judgy eyes from anyone.
With respect to messages, Ecclesia actually refers to scripture. The message was a little generic on the day I attended, but maybe that is the point: to keep the message so wide open that everyone can receive and interpret accordingly. Love your enemies. Okay… but how? And why should I forgive them exactly?
It just didn’t click for me, not this day. I couldn’t even engage in a meaningful diaglogue with my cousin afterwards because we are both staunch in our beliefs that there are some people in this world that do not deserve forgiveness for their sins. And maybe that’s why she and I need to keep attending regular service. Maybe one day, I/​we will get it.
Despite having said all of that, I enjoyed my first experience here. The people were super-​nice, the production value on the videos really sparked my attention, and they even have a photo booth you can document your visit. Ecclesia is also heavy on charity, so with all of the foregoing factors, I would certainly come back to give it another try.

There’s no such thing as a perfect church, but I’ve never felt more at home worshiping at ecclesia. I live across the street from the church and regularly visit Paper Co., the coffee shop/​coffee house there. It’s always uncrowded and the service is always attentive.
No one church is right for everyone, but if you’re looking for a place of worship to call home, and you’re comfortable with a more casual style of service where you can participate in the sacrament of communion on a weekly basis, you’re encouraged to give ecclesia a try. The people are welcoming here.

Nothing I can say will ever do Ecclesia justice. I grew up going to church, but became frustrated and turned off while I was in college. My experiences in church didn’t line up with what I believed about God. After moving to Katy and visiting several churches [some of which were led by and filled with lovely people, but still didn’t fill me up spiritually], a Unilocal search led me to Ecclesia. It was so far (20 miles), I almost didn’t want to like it, but was too intrigued not to try it.
After the first visit, there was something so authentic about Ecclesia. The music was like no other I had ever experienced in church — I’m not a «crier», and it had be tearing up [and still does regularly!]. One of my favorites — «I’ll Fly Away» — has been played a few times. The pastor, Chris Seay, is so real. so kind, genuine, and inspires me on a regular basis. He actually walks the walk. he visits other countries relatively frequently, and connects the church with under-​served places in really cool ways.
The rest of the staff & volunteers who I’ve come in contact with have all come across as warm, friendly, and hard working. The children’s area was well thought out — I have a toddler, and the room where I leave her during church reminds me of a Montessori classroom. The older children have a curriculum that teaches the Bible in a natural & engaging way. I’ve also kept my daughter with me while in church, and there is a really neat children’s area to the side where she was able to play while I listened to the message.
If you’re looking for a church, give Ecclesia a try. I think you’ll be glad you did. :)

Been an AVID Believer my whole, loooong life of 20 years. But I’ve never been a big church goer. I’ve always felt like the mission of the church never did Believing In God the justice He deserves. After a hiatus for some time with my family, my brother googled «hip Churches in Houston» so we could help bring our first sister-​in-​law closer to Christ. From the moment I heard Chris speak, not as a Pastor, or a man who had it figured out, but as a Brother who was going through the struggles everyday that we all endure, I knew this was home. 4 years under my belt and without a doubt I can say EVERY SINGLE TIME I step foot inside Ecclesia, I feel the Warmth of Him. This is a Church for All, the ugly, the beaten, the sinners, the forgives, the lovers, the haters, anyone and everyone. Let Chris and his Worship Team join you on the Journey to God’s Kingdom. I know I’ll be there, hand in hand with a smile on my face. I am far from a good man (I’m still learning what it takes to even be a man hahaha), but I know The Truth when I see it, and that is what Ecclesia is.
Welcome Home Houston!

I’ve been involved with the Ecclesia Houston community off and on since 2006.
It’s a wonderful church, with a great heart. Such a good place to get involved and meet cool people. I really appreciate how the church has grown in ethnic and age diversity over the years. The coffee shop is excellent, the sermons and music are both usually very good.
Joining a small group can be daunting, but it’s definitely worth it. And Ecclesia is very supportive if you have ideas for a ministry you’d like to start or a way you’d like to serve the church or Houston. I love their focus on serving the city.
If you are looking for a church, Ecclesia should definitely be on your list of places to at least visit.

ive attended ecclesia for 5 years now when they were at the taft location. Chris Seay is not your typical pastor but thats what makes Ecclesia so eclectic. The small group community is very active and the services are excellent. The worship music is among the best of the best with appearances from Robbie Seay, David Crowder and the Digital Age.

I’ve been going to Ecclesia for five years so I may be a bit biased but I have not been to a friendlier or more genuine church. The services are always top notch and entertaining. Great, not old fashioned, worship rock bands and the church emphasizes more on helping others rather than being centered around yourself. Small groups are also a great way to make friends and find a community!

I love Ecclesia. I grew up in the Lutheran church, went to a Baptist College, participated in ministry and missions with a Methodist Church and never really found a place that seemed to fully encompass what I believed; that is until I found Ecclesia. I have been going to Ecclesia for almost 3 years now. I love the church, I love the church family (although it can be intimidating to get involved when you first step through the doors).
Anyone who is looking for a church home, people to love them where they are and walk with them as they pursue Christ, this is the place for you. If you are looking for a «feel-​good» sermon this isn’t the place for you. Prepare to be challenged and encouraged by the Word, the sermons, the pastors and the members.

Ecclesia has been my home church for a year, now. It is a wonderful place that has always made me feel welcome and loved. The congregation is a great mix of people from many walks of life who love God and serve Him and our city together. The messages are sincere and open spirited, so much so that my Agnostic boyfriend does not mind attending with me occasionally because he does not feel shunned or pressured into believing.
Pastor Chris Seay has a heart for people and is full of grace, but what drew me to his sermons is that he is able to relate issues in a way that I fully connect with: namely humor and food (especially sharing my love of cheese). This church reaches people where they are and stands with them, grows with them, does life with them. It is a true community that I am very grateful to be a part of.

After having a really, really bad experience at the Vineyard in the Heights, I swore church off all together for years and still am not a church goer, not really sure where I stand with Christianity for that matter. A friend of mine invited me a few years ago and found out that the pastor and I went to high school together and his brother who is an accomplished Christian musician does the music. I have gone back a few times and actually reached out to the pastor about not being sure if I believe in God at all and his associate pastor met with me in the coffee shop after work one day and let me borrow a book and has told me that I can call anytime with any questions. Still not sure if I believe or not, but these people are the real deal, unlike the «Feaux» Christians at the Vineyard.

My church!!! I love this place! It is a very diverse group of christians, but this is what makes Ecclesia, Ecclesia. I invite everyone to try it out just once and you will want to keep coming back. Small church with a huge message. 5 STAR CHURCH!

I go to this church, I love this church. I have been going for about a year and have met some incredible friends. This church is radically different from churches I have been to in the past. The music is absolutely incredible, full of original songs and outstanding talent and Chris Seay the pastor teaches messages that are really meaningful that stretch your faith and make you think outside the box. I see God working so much in this church and I am so happy to be apart of it. I definitely recommend to all people especially people just curious about Christianity, this is a place where you can be you, experience the love of Christ’s people, drink some amazing coffee and get answers to questions you might be needing. :)

I just came here last night for a lecture I was giving in their back hall. I didn’t see the church in action, but the coffee shop was open, and it definitely was a cool vibe. Nice chairs and places to enjoy, good coffee selection if your into that, and service with a smile.
Wifi inside the building, and a nice patio section outside where people were conversing and hanging out. Felt like mainly a younger crowd. Sweet!

Okay, I admit it, I have been church shopping. having taken the dark path of not going to church for sometime, and being raised loosely Catholic, I like many others lost religion somewhere along the way in my 20’s. I tried Lakewood (too big, too Joel Olsteen, just too much for me) tried both first and second baptist, and Unity. (I did like Unity) I really wanted something Christian, and non denominational, and something just made sense to me! – I didn’t want that you will burn in hell if you don’t go to church feeling! Fear. No thanks. A friend has said he starting going there and really liked it, so I decided to check out their 1p.m. service. No need to wake up super early, easy to find, and I liked that I could take my iced coffee in with me. Regarding the others reviews, regarding the tattooed emo type people is NOT what I experienced at all. There was a good crowd, diverse definately, but mostly younger 20’s, 30’s lots of couples, some gay/​lesbians couples, and a couple of older folks. Dressed in T shirts jeans and flip flops, it was very casual. The band took up the first ½ hour, the singer has a fantastic voice, and the message made sense to me. It was simple but powerful, and bottom line it moved me. Will continue to check this place out, as I think my search is over.

Please take with a grain of salt some of the comments of Cory O. While she gave an overall positive review, her description gives the appearance to the reader that Ecclesia is exists as a fashionable hot spot or something. I am sure she means well, but the description is not really accurate at all.
Ecclesia believes «the Church exists for the world and not for herself», a statement that tends to contradict the notion that Ecclesia is the place to be seen. The church building itself is multipurpose: it is a worship sanctuary, an art gallery, a recording studio, a coffee house and a performing venue. This fact is consistent with Ecclesia’s rejecting «unfounded categories that divide the world into uniquely sacred or purely secular».
It is true that lots of young adults seem to be drawn to their services, and the tats and piercings certainly are plentiful. But there are also married couples, partnered couples, families and your-​average-​everyday-​run-​of-​the-​mill-​singles as well. I have been attending four years and I am in my fifties. It would be more accurate to say that Ecclesia attracts the unchurched, those who are broken, especially if their brokenness has been at least partially attributed to being exposed to harsh religiosity.
Instead of hearing the oft-​repeated message of other churches that you will go to hell if you do not accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, Ecclesia takes a different approach. Ecclesia «embraces the teachings and divinity of Jesus Christ as well as His unique role as the means of salvation from sin for all who believe.» See how different that mission statement sounds? It is far less judgmental than the hell-​and-​brimstone message described in the beginning of this paragraph.
In fact, judgment is something I’ve never encountered at Ecclesia. Because if a church is going to quote Leviticus 18:22 or 20:13 when identifying homosexuality as a sin, then a church also needs to talk about lying, cheating, coveting and countless other sins, transgressions and character defects which the Old Testament discusses. Because God does not differentiate, that is, distinguish one sin from another sin. Instead, Ecclesia chooses not to point the finger at anyone.
And you also won’t hear the so called «prosperity gospel» which some churches say is supported in Deuteronomy 8:18 and Malachi 3:10.
Instead, we are taught geing generous and benevolent frees us of the bondage of self. Ecclesia is a leader in the Advent Conspiracy movement, which urges believers to defer buying that useless gift for a loved one for Christmas, and instead use the money to help those in need. Such action is truly in the spirit of the Holiday.
It is Chris Seay, by the way, who is the lead pastor. His brother Robbie is a worship leader through music. The Robbie Seay Band performs original music, covers of other CC artists and rearrangements of traditional church hymns. The band is currently signed to Sparrow Records (EMI) and the cut «Song of Hope» reached #7 on the Hot Christian Songs chart in 2007, and was included in 2009’s WOW Compilation CD. And they rock!
But it is the message which I love most about Ecclesia. LOVE IS Ecclesia’s message. It’s a message you may not receive through the fire and brimstone or the «prosperity» gospel of other churches.
Some c’mon by, get yourself a cup of coffee and sit down for a different church experience!

I have been going here for 3 years and i love it more every week. The sermons are easy and yet still focused on the Bible, no stuffy TBN style talking here. They have it right when they just focus on loving God and others, they are not judgmental or critical.
give it a try, go more than once. let the peaceful atmosphere wash over you and you’ll be back every week.