Visiting a church for the first time or after a long break can be a bit daunting. Here are a few things you may be wondering about.

What is a service like?

In our Sunday morning service you will find something for everyone, both new visitors and regular members

 We have a minister who serves four churches so is not always with us. We call on Lay Preachers to take services when the minister is at another church. Some of these are from our own congregation and some come from other churches outside the group.

We occasionally use a modern projector and screen for visual presentations, this depends on the minister of the day. Some ministers will ask for someone to read a bible passage during the service but this is usually arranged in advance. There’s no pressure to take part. We’re very happy for you to come along and see what worshipping here is like. If anything seems unfamiliar, feel free to ask one of our welcome team, or someone sitting nearby.

How long are your services?

Our Sunday services usually last around an hour and we have free tea/coffee and biscuits from 10.15 before the service which begins at 11am. Sometimes people bring cake when it is their birthday or other anniversary.

What is the music like?

We have a fine church organ which we use, and a digital hymnal for when the organist is away.  We use a selection of modern and traditional songs.

Will I know what to do?

Most people find their first visit to church more informal than they expected. We’re a friendly group of people, and our services are set up so you can relax and get to know us as a church. It is easy to watch the congregation to see what they do. An example is to stand when the minister comes in from the vestry, accompanied by the duty Elders, to take the service. We also stand (if able) to sing the hymns, and remain standing after the last hymn to receive the final blessing which is just a few words from the minister

What about Communion?

Sharing bread and wine is an important part of our church community. It reminds us what Jesus did for us.  We currently have Communion once a month usually the second Sunday, but this varies according to whether the preacher is authorised to take it. The bread and wine are served to you in your seat but you are under no obligation to take it.

Everyone is invited to the Lord’s table – no-one is excluded – but you can ask for a prayer or blessing instead if you prefer – please just ask when you arrive in the church.

What should I wear?

Please dress as you feel comfortable. It is the person who is important and not the clothing.

What happens to my children during the service?

Children are welcomed at services; we have activity bags available for them. NEVER feel embarrassed if your children make a noise because no-one will complain, we have all been there done that and got the T shirt as the saying goes.

All our leaders have been DBS-checked. We have a full safeguarding policy in place, and review this regularly.

Do I have to give money to the collection?

Absolutely not. Never feel uncomfortable about not giving. Whilst the collection goes to further God’s work worldwide, YOU are more important than your money and we are happy to help you get closer to God.

Many church members and regular attenders support the work of the church through cash donations, or using envelopes that allow us to receive Gift Aid on donations.

What about prayer?

Prayer is at the heart of our church life, and we believe that it can really make a difference in people’s lives. It’s one of the ways we can discover that God loves and cares about everyone and is with us always.