We want you to feel at home when you visit, so here are a few answers to questions that you may have about our services.
1. What do I wear?
The church is very informal. Wear what you feel comfortable in. If your toddler insists on wearing his or her favourite superhero costum, that’s fine – and we will try not to bat an eyelid if you come dressed as Batman too!
2. When do I arrive and how long are the services?
We would aim to arrive about 10 minutes before the start of the service (10.30am). Usually the service lasts around an hour. Information about the Sunday service can be found here and travel and accessibility here.
3. What do I do when I come in?
Come in through either of the front doors. You will hopefully be greeted with a smile and notice sheet at the door. Sit anywhere where there is a free chair. Please keep your coat and belongings with you, which you can hang on your chair. Buggies and wheelchairs can be left near the front door or taken into the church if that suits you better. The Welcome person can direct you to toilets.
4. What is there for children?
We try to make the service as family friendly as possible. We have a children’s group for those over 4 years old at our 10.30am in the room next to the church. They do fun activities, hear Bible stories, sing and watch videos. We will spend the first part of our service all together and will let you know when it is time for the children to leave for their groups. Your children are welcome to go out or stay with you in the service. There is a colouring table at the back of church for young children and you are welcome to take them into the Link area if they need a break, where you can listen to the service through the relay.
5. What happens during the services?
Usually we sing Christian songs, have prayers, Bible readings, talk and, sometimes, special presentations. We normally stand to sing songs and sit to pray and listen to the talk. Our songs are a mixture of modern Christian songs and classic hymns played by our music group. You can read about some of the other church activities here.
6. Will I be asked to do anything?
No, you can sit and do nothing if you want. Most people join in with the songs. You may not know the tune but the words will be projected on a screen at the front – just like karaoke! The person leading the service will tell us what to do so that we can participate if we wish. We would love all people to discover more of the life-changing person of Jesus but we will not force our faith on people.
7. What do I do in a Communion Service?
Holy Communion is held twice a month and is the part of our service, where we share bread and wine in remembrance of Jesus’ death for us. All those who are baptised and follow Jesus as Saviour and Lord are welcome to go up to the front of church to have the bread and wine. Those who are not yet Christians, or who do not want to take Communion for any reason, can either stay in their chairs or go up to the front for a prayer (simply keep your hands by your side to indicate that you would like prayer).
8. Will I be asked for money?
No. During the last song, we pass round a collection bag. This is for our regular members who want to support the church financially. Donations are welcome but we do not want visitors to feel obliged to give anything.
9. Can I talk to someone about questions, problems or be prayed for?
We have people who can talk to you about difficulties or questions about faith and pray with you. Speak to one of the Welcome team and they will point them out. For more about support with difficulties.
10. What happens after the service?
Tea and coffee are served from the tea hatch in the Link area, to the left of church. This is free. People normally mingle and talk. Please stay around and meet people. We also have a Table at the back of church where you can pick up information about church activities. You are free to leave whenever you wish.
If you have any other questions, please get in touch.