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What We Practice

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At Olive Branch Fellowship, our practices flow from our desire to follow the Scriptures faithfully and to walk in obedience to God's Word. We believe faith is not only something we believe but something we live out daily. The following practices help guide our worship, our community life, and our commitment to living according to the teachings of the Bible.

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The Calendar

We have chosen to unite with Israel in observing the Hillel Calendar for the counting of the biblical festivals. This calendar has been preserved by the Jewish people for nearly 1700 years and represents the calculated version of the Hebrew calendar historically used by Jewish communities.

Because of this, our holidays generally fall on the same days they are observed by the Jewish people in Israel, with the exception of Pentecost (Shavuot).

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The Sabbath

We practice the weekly seventh-day Sabbath as commanded in Scripture. The Sabbath begins at sunset on Friday and ends at sunset on Saturday, following the pattern established in creation and reflected throughout Scripture.

During this time we rest from our regular work—including occupational work, yard work, and household labor—and gather together to worship the Creator as the body of Messiah.

The Sabbath also serves as a prophetic reminder of the eternal rest believers will one day experience with God.

Scripture References

Genesis 2:2–3
Exodus 20:8–11
Isaiah 58:13–14
Mark 2:27–28
Hebrews 4:9–10

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Biblical Festivals

We observe the biblical holidays appointed by the Lord in Scripture. These festivals remind us of God's faithfulness throughout history and reveal important aspects of His redemptive plan.

The appointed festivals include:

• The Sabbath

• Passover (Pesach) and the Feast of Unleavened Bread

• Pentecost (Shavuot)

• Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah)

• Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur)

• Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot)

We also observe the historical memorials recorded in Scripture:

• Purim

• The Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah)

These celebrations serve as memorials of God's deliverance and faithfulness to His people throughout history.

Scripture References

Leviticus 23
Deuteronomy 16:16
Zechariah 14:16

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The Passover Lamb

During Passover, we do not consume lamb as part of the meal for several reasons:

• The Passover lamb was commanded to be sacrificed at the Temple in Jerusalem.

• There is currently no Temple where such sacrifices can be performed.

• Yeshua (Jesus) is now recognized as our Passover Lamb, who was sacrificed once and for all.

Therefore, we participate in the meaning of the Passover lamb spiritually—through faith in the Messiah who gave His life for our redemption.

Scripture References

Exodus 12
1 Corinthians 5:7
John 1:29

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Biblical Food Laws

The Scriptures provide guidance regarding what God has created for food. We seek to honor these instructions as part of our desire to live according to God's Word.

Land animals considered clean for consumption are those that have cloven hooves and chew the cud.
Sea creatures considered clean are those that have fins and scales.

Because of these instructions, we avoid eating:

• Animals sacrificed to idols

• Animals that have been strangled

• Blood from animals

• Certain fats that were dedicated to the Lord

• Animals that died of natural causes (except in rare circumstances)

• Land animals that do not have cloven hooves and chew the cud (such as pigs, rabbits, and camels)

• Marine animals without fins and scales (such as shellfish and catfish)

• Certain birds and winged animals listed in Scripture

• Insects that do not have jointed legs for hopping

Scripture References

Leviticus 11
Deuteronomy 14
Acts 15:20

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Conduct at Ministry Events

We do not allow alcohol or drunkenness at any ministry-related services or events.

Drunkenness removes self-control and discernment and may cause others in the community to stumble. For this reason, alcohol is not permitted at ministry gatherings.

This guideline does not govern personal decisions within private homes, though Scripture clearly teaches that drunkenness should always be avoided.

Scripture References

Ephesians 5:18
Romans 14:21
1 Peter 5:8

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Complementarian Headship

We believe Scripture establishes roles of leadership and responsibility within the family and the community of believers.

Men are called to lead in humility, service, and spiritual responsibility, while men and women together honor God through their distinct and complementary roles.

Scripture References

Ephesians 5:22–25
1 Corinthians 11:3
1 Timothy 2:12

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Leadership

Our congregation practices appointment rather than congregational voting when selecting elders and leaders.

This model follows the pattern we see in Scripture where leaders were appointed based on their character, spiritual maturity, and devotion to God.

We seek leaders who are righteous, God-fearing, and filled with the Holy Spirit.

Scripture References

Exodus 18:21
Acts 14:23
Titus 1:5

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Marriage

We practice biblical marriage as established in Scripture.

Marriage is understood to be a covenant between one man and one woman who are committed to one another and equally yoked in their faith in the Lord.

Because of this conviction, we only perform and recognize marriages that align with this biblical model.

Scripture References

Genesis 2:24
Matthew 19:4–6
2 Corinthians 6:14

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Our Desire

Our desire is to honor God through faithful obedience to His Word, worship Him sincerely, and encourage one another as we grow in faith and walk in the ways of the Messiah.