What To Expect

what to expect
Because we know you may have a few questions about attending our service, we’ve provided you with some answers.

 

What time is service?
Worship service begins at 9:30am. Throughout the year we may have special services like Lent, Blue Christmas, and others. These special services have their own worship time. All worship times are shown on the  church calendar .
 
How early should I arrive for service?
Some folks arrive as early as 15-30 minutes. And some folks come in after the start. Whenever you come, you are welcome.
 
Where do I park?
Parking, including handicapped accessible and senior spaces, are available in front of the church.
 
Is the building Handicap-Accessible?
The Sanctuary and all parts of the church campus are accessible. If you have any questions or require assistance, please see one of the greeters or any church member.
 
What if I need Hearing Assistance?
Hearing-assistance devices are available. Ask an usher or any member if you would like to use one.
 
How will I get to know people?
We wear name-tags to make it easier for you to get to know us. A greeter will help you make a temporary name-tag if you wish.
 
Can you tell me a little about the worship service?
Our service is informal in style and changes a little from week to week. Our entire service is projected on a screen so no bulletins are needed. The length of our service varies, but usually runs about 60 minutes.
 
Am I required to give an offering?
An offering is collected at all church services. The plate is passed by the ushers. As a congregation, we have no expectation for visitors to give. It is totally a free will offering.
 
Is there a Nursery?
Child care is available up to age 5 in our fully-equipped nursery near the worship area. Our nursery attendant is assisted by various volunteers in the congregation to care for the young ones who come to church.
 
Must I be a member to take communion?
Our communion table is open to all – whether guest, friend or member. We celebrate communion on the first Sunday of the month. We have a wheat-free/gluten free option for bread, and serve both juice and wine.
 
Who is welcome at First Congregational UCC?
Whether you are a believer, a doubter or a seeker, you are welcome at First Congregational United Church of Christ. Young and old, tattooed or not, happy or sad, musical or tone-deaf, in hiking clothes or your best dress – all are welcome and all are loved.
 
Is there a dress code?
There is no dress code at First Congregational UCC. Come dressed up or casual – come as you are.
 
Is there fellowship after service?
After the worship service, we serve coffee along with light refreshments. We invite you to stay and visit a while so that we can get to know you.
 
What about smoking?
The church is a public facility and smoking is not allowed in the building, parking lot or on the property.
 
Are firearms permissible?
The church does not allow firearms in the building, parking lot or on the property.