Want to know exactly what to expect at a Sunday Service?

Worship begins promptly at 10:30 a.m., though we always have people come in just after this. If you’re a bit late, that’s okay. We understand. We just ask that you be considerate of others as you come in.

1. Worship begins with a sung Call to Worship, usually an upbeat, sometimes hand-clapping hymn to get us going for the morning. Then all are invited to “Pass the Peace of Christ” to those around them—and no one is left out! Some hug, some shake hands, and some fist- or elbow-bump if they worry about germs. All expressions are accepted and welcomed! The Call to Worship hymn then starts up again, reminding us it’s time to take our seats.
2. A volunteer reads the morning announcements and then offers a brief prayer of welcome before the opening hymn begins. We have hymnals in the pews, but we also show the words to the hymns, as well as to the Apostles’ Creed and the Scripture reading, on the two TV screens. We tend to stand for all hymns (if you’re able to). When the opening hymn ends, we remain standing for the group reading of the Apostles’ Creed followed by singing the Gloria Patri. All are then asked to be seated. (NOTE: When a baptism or new member ceremony is held, or a special activity such as All Saints Sunday, it tends to take place after the announcements and before the opening hymn. That will be noted in the Bulletin you receive when you first come in.)
3. The pastor then offers the Prayers of the People, followed by the Lord’s Prayer said together. Then it’s time to stand for the next hymn.
4. After the second hymn, when people are seated, we take our collection while the Music Minister and/or the choir presents offering music. If you feel so inclined, you can put cash or a check in by itself, in an envelope (provided in the back of the pew in front of you). And if you came unprepared to give, that’s perfectly fine. Many give through their banks each week, so don’t actually put anything into the plate. Don’t feel uncomfortable about not dropping something in–we don’t charge “admission.” We’re just happy to have you join us!
5. After the Offering music, we all stand to sing the Doxology, or offering hymn, and then join together for the Offertory Prayer. Again, all words will be on the screens. Then we all sit down.
6. The week’s scripture is read, and then we all sing a verse of “Spirit of the Living God.” This is as much a hymn to center us before the message as it is a moment for the pastor to prepare himself as well.
7. The message (or sermon) is about 20 minutes, and covers not just Biblical teachings but Christian teachings, usually with connections to what’s happening in our lives and in our world today. By the way, you aren’t expected to have a strong grasp of scripture or Methodism to understand the message. Most things are explained and clarified for those who are new to church.
8. After the message we all stand for the closing hymn. The pastor then gives the final Benediction, and the service ends as we all join in standing and singing Let There Be Peace on Earth, our Benediction Hymn. (NOTE: If it’s the first Sunday of the month, Holy Communion will be held after the Message but before them closing hymn. All are welcome, and you don’t have to be a church member or a United Methodist to be at God’s table.)

The pastor will stand out in the narthex (the gathering area just outside the pews) to say goodbye to people and wish them a good week. Most of us will go over to Joy Hall by exiting the door to the right at the front of the Sanctuary and enjoy coffee, treats, and fellowship. We hope that new visitors will also take that opportunity to visit with us and get to know us. (Just so you know, you won’t be left sitting at a table by yourself!)