People considering visiting a church often have questions they would like to ask before coming. Here are a few that people have:
ABOUT WORSHIP
How long does worship last?
The service is usually an hour long.
What do people wear? Do I have to "dress up?
It really is your choice. At First Presbyterian dress at worship runs from casual - sweaters, sport shirts, everyday blouses, etc. - to suits, sport coats and ties, and skirts and dresses. Particularly in the summer, people dress to fit the season.
Can I sit anywhere?
There is plenty of space and you can sit where you like. Young families tend to sit in the front, so if you want those seats, come a bit early.
What if I have a hearing problem?
The church is equipped with personal listening devices. They have a "bud" that fits in the ear, like a portable radio, and a small receiver with volume control. You can sit anywhere you wish and it will receive the service on the system. The devices are in little colored bags on shelf in back of sanctuary.
May we bring the children to worship?
Certainly! We like to think we are a "child friendly" church. We do have a room with loving care-givers for infants and toddlers. (An usher can direct you.) Most children three and older come to the first part of worship. Early in the service, young children have a moment of sharing faith with the minister. Then they go with the adult Children's Worship leader for a bible lesson activity. Children above second grade stay in worship. There are "worship bags" available for those in the younger grades. These contain items that help them through the service, ask the greeter for one.
Is there Sunday School during worship?
No. We believe education and worship are two important and different activities of the church. There are Sunday School classes (September to June) for three-year olds through adults at 11:30. Note above opportunities for children during worship.
Do I have to believe in a certain creed to come to the Presbyterian church?
No. We hope you are seeking a certain relationship with Jesus Christ, even if you do not know him well. We are all seekers. What is important to Christ is that we all seek to make him Lord of our lives and accept him as Savior.
Do you kneel?
No. Kneeling is not a part of our regular worship. There are kneelers in the church’s Chapel of the Good Shepherd for those who, in private prayer, would like to kneel.
What is your practice regarding Holy Communion?
Holy Communion, sometimes called the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, is a sacrament of the church. We celebrate it the first Sunday of each month and other special seasonal times. We welcome any who have been baptized, whether of this church or another, to receive Communion. No one is required to partake. In this church we use non-alcohol grape juice. In the Presbyterian church trays of bread and tiny cups are passed to the congregation.
Where do I park?
For Sunday service, there are several parking lots surrounding the church that may be used in addition to street parking.
Will someone call on me if I visit?
If you sign the guest book or friendship pad, there will probably be a follow-up contact - just to say thank you for sharing worship with us. We will be happy to answer questions, but we will not be intrusive.
What about baptisms, weddings and funerals?
See section elsewhere on this web site under miscellaneous information.
How can I learn more?
Best way, stop in and ask, or attend one of our "info gatherings," held every other month - one hour, casual times with the minister and a couple members, to find out about the church, etc.
What if I want to join the church?
The one requirement for church membership is that you believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. To help people in becoming members we do have occasional "stepping stones" classes.
What if I have other questions?
Give a call to the church, 937-5419.
