Why not come and join us

Coming to Church for the first time can perhaps feel a bit daunting. You can be assured that you will be warmly welcomed. We have some frequently asked questions that you might find helpful:

Can I just walk in?
Yes! All are welcome.

Can I bring the kids?
Yes! Children are very welcome. 

Is the Church accessible?
Yes, we have made adjustments to the entrances of our buildings to be accessible and you can always let us know if you require any assistance.

What should I wear?
The choice is yours – whatever is comfortable for you is fine.

How long will the service be?
Usually around an hour, depending on the kind of service.

Can I leave if I want to?
We hope that you’ll be happy to stay – but of course you may get up and leave at any point if you wish.

Do I need to bring anything?
No. However, a monetary collection is made during the service, but there is no obligation to contribute. Simply pass the collection plate on to the next person if you wish. You will see this happening, as some regulars give in other ways (see our ‘Giving’ page).

I don’t know if I’m a Christian – does that matter?
No – all are welcome, whatever stage you are at in your spiritual journey.

What happens when I walk in?
You will be greeted with a smile and a warm welcome from the Welcome Team – you will also be offered a hymn book to use during the service.

Where do I sit?
No one has a reserved seat, so you can take a ‘pew’ pretty much anywhere.

Will anyone speak to me?
Yes! We do try and give a friendly welcome, especially to anyone new to the Church. It also helps us if you let us know it’s your first time.

How do I know when to stand up and sit down or when we are supposed to say something aloud?
If you are able, you will only need to stand for the hymn singing. It is usual for us to repeat the Lord’s Prayer. It is your choice whether you join in.

What if I don’t know the hymns?
Don’t worry – we have a wide range of hymns and no one can know them all. Try and join in as it goes along. No one will mind if you don’t sing.

Does it matter if my baby or children make a noise?
Not at all – it’s only natural and we love to have them in church. Feel free to stand up or walk around if you think it will help calm you / your baby.  Anything is fine by us.

Can my children join in?
Yes, our All-age Services are designed to encourage children and we also operate the Messy Church programme of activities at other times.

What does a service consist of?
It will begin with a welcome to worship and will consist of prayers, hymns, Bible readings and a thoughtful and enlightening Sermon, lasting around 15 minutes. This will be based on the Bible reading for the day and may include day-to-day issues.

How do I know the service has ended?
The Minister will give a blessing followed by the ’Amen’, and we may also sing a small blessing to finish. People will sit down, and sometimes spend a few moments in a quiet prayer. 

Afterwards?
Tea and coffee is normally served and you’re most welcome to stay. Its a good way of getting to know each other.

I’d like to come regularly – should I tell someone?
It’s good for us to know that you’re intending to come on a regular basis, so have chat with us over a cuppa after the service.