Every Member a Minister
Frequently Asked Questions

Who was Olin T. Binkley?
Dr. Olin T. Binkley was a professor and minister in Chapel Hill. He later served as President of the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. His Christian witness was an inspiration to the founding members.

When are worship services?
Binkley has one regular worship service per week, on Sunday mornings at 11 am.  In addition, during summer months, there may be a 9:45 am "family friendly" worship in our Lounge. Check with the church office to confirm.

Where do I park?
Some parking is available in Binkley’s drive and behind the church. Additional parking is available to the right of Binkley’s drive, as well as in the Harris Teeter parking lot close to the stairs leading away from Binkley’s drive.

Is Binkley accessible by bus?
Binkley is easily accessible by bus. The route for the “F” bus of the Triangle Transit Authority includes a stop at the Burger King on Elliott Rd., which is only a block from Binkley. It also includes a stop at University Mall, which is next to Binkley Church. For additional information, as well as route maps and schedules, please contact the Triangle Transit Authority at 968-2769 or visit their web site @ http://www.ci.chapel-hill.nc.us/transit/routes/.

Do you offer Christian Education classes?
Yes, Binkley’s Christian Education program includes a church school for children, youth, and adults during the academic year. Adult classes offer a wide range of themes, including bible study, Christian mediation, and current issues. Classes take place on Sunday mornings from 9:30 until 10:30 from the Sunday after Labor Day (Launch Sunday) until the second to last Sunday in May.

How can I access audiotapes of the services?
MP3 files of our sermons are available for listening or downloading on our website, under "Sermons". 

Is it possible to schedule space at Binkley for meetings or events?
Yes, Binkley makes its facilities available to non-profit groups. Please contact our office for further information.

What are the church’s affiliations?
While originally organized as a Southern Baptist congregation, Binkley soon aligned with the American Baptist Churches and was a founding member of ABCOTS (the American Baptist Churches of the South.) Binkley has been an individual congregational member of the North Carolina Council of Churches for many years and more recently the Alliance of Baptists and the Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists.

What is Binkley’s worship like?
We expect preaching that is Bible based, intellectual, and relevant to our lives. Preaching and all of worship need to be nurturing and prophetic, fostering reverence and awe.

What does it mean to be a Baptist at Binkley?
The "Baptist Distinctives" document explains what it means to be a Baptist at Binkley. You can download a PDF file of this document by clicking here.    (Note: You must have Adobe Reader on your computer to view this file. It is available free at http://www.adobe.com).

What does it mean that Binkley is a “welcoming and affirming” church?
Regardless of economic status, race, age, political affiliation, national origin, or sexual orientation, all are welcome at Binkley.

How large is Binkley’s congregation?
Binkley has approximately 450 members from a variety of Christian backgrounds, theologies, and traditions.

What are some unique characteristics of Binkley?
Binkley is unique in many ways. There are many ordained ministers, some retired, some not, who are current members.
Binkley is often criticized for its "welcoming and affirming" stance on inclusive membership. However, many members find this atmosphere a refreshing change from religion "the same old way".

Whom do I contact for further information about Binkley?
Please call our office at 942-4964 during office hours:  Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.  Or you can send us an email at office@binkleychurch.org.