Sunday Service – What To Expect

We know that coming to a new church for the first time can feel quite daunting, and so we hope that this short overview of what to expect may help to alleviate some of the nerves you may be feeling.

Upon arrival

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a member of the church. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask at this point or at any time during the service. You may be given a service sheet or our latest newsletter, and then guided through into the church to find a seat.

We have flexible seating in the church, with a few rows of chairs near the front and a more informal area where families can sit if they wish. There are books, activity sheets, drinks and snacks available for children, to help make their time at church more comfortable.

The church entrance

A round wooden table with 4 padded chairs around it, with a smaller rectangular table in front of it with some more padded chairs around it.

Flexible seating around tables

An area at the back of church, with a rainbow coloured rug on the floor and some boxes with toys and a cupboard with pens and paper on, for kids to play on while their parents sit on the seats around it.

The kids’ area

The beginning of the service

The service begins with the worship leader inviting everyone to stand and sing. Do not worry if you find standing difficult, there are several members of our congregation who remain seated at times so you will not be alone.

We generally sing two or three songs, before the worship leader asks if anybody has any news to share. This is a wonderful time in the service, and you are welcome to join in with sharing any news you have, including prayer requests. Church notices are also shared at this time, and if anything isn’t clear please do ask somebody to explain further.

We end our sharing time with prayers, and then the preacher takes over from the worship leader to begin the service.

The service itself

All of our services include a combination of songs, Bible readings, prayers, and time for reflection, with the preacher guiding us through the theme of the service in their sermon. However there are a couple of services each month which differ from the usual format slightly, and those are explained below.


Cafe Church

On the last Sunday of each month, we meet for Cafe Church. For this service we all sit around the tables at the back of the church, and break halfway through the service to enjoy tea, coffee, and biscuits together. It is a great opportunity to get to know each other a bit better.


Communion

Once a month we share Communion together. All are welcome to take Communion with us, including young children. If you have any questions about this, please do not hesitate to ask somebody.


Parade Services

Every so often, we will be joined by the Beavers, Cubs, and Scouts for a Parade Service. The service begins with them bringing their flags (known as Colours) to the front of the church, and ends with them taking them back.