New to church?
Below you can find some frequently asked questions if you're not sure what to expect!
What happens?
We start our meeting at 10:30am - you're welcome to arrive from about 10:15am to chat if you'd like to!
We begin by singing together in worship of Jesus.
We break this up with some church announcements (at this time the kids go out to their activities).
We sometimes take some bread and wine together in remembrance of Jesus (see Mark 14:22-24). And we often have different people sharing things they feel God has put on their heart to build up the rest of us.
And then later on there will be a talk based on the Bible.
What happens after?
After the service there is plenty of time to get in touch and to talk with other people with tea, coffee, and biscuits! People usually stick around for half an hour to an hour after.
We all know what it's like being a visitor, so we do try and look out for people who are new and make sure you're not left standing around on your own after the meeting. Just grab yourself a drink and someone will come and make you feel welcome!
Are there children's activities?
Yes there are! The children (primary) and youth (secondary) go out of the service to their own activities once we've shared our announcements. The person hosting our meeting will let you know when.
If your child is pre-school age, we have a space in our children's room with some toys and games where you can bring them to be looked after by our children's team. Alternatively, you're welcome to stay with them in the main service.
Don't worry if they make a bit of noise! You can always pop out into the foyer if you're feeling it's getting too much! We don't mind a bit of disruption if it means you and your child can be involved in church!
What should I wear?
There isn't a dress code - most people dress casually.
Will it cost?
There is no charge!
Can someone show me around or sit with me?
Just speak to one of the welcome team at the entrance, they would love to show you around or introduce you to someone you can sit with!
Is there parking nearby?
Yes. There is a car park for the conference centre which we can use for free. Ignore the signs outside and just give us your reg plate on your way in.
If you do happen to get a parking ticket from your time with us, don't panic and don't pay! Just get in touch with us and we'll get it cancelled for you.
Am I allowed to come to church?
Everyone is welcome to come to church. No matter your background, we'd love you to join us!
Will I be expected to take part?
No. You certainly wont be asked to stand and introduce yourself to everyone - or anything like that! But hopefully a few people will come and say hi.
If you're new to church altogether, please feel free to join in singing (words will be on the screen) but don't feel you have to - no-one will mind (or notice!) whether you do or don't!
If we're taking communion (bread and wine), you're really welcome to simply sit and observe what's going on or, if you're a believer in Jesus already and want to follow Him as Lord in your life, then come and take part!
After you've listened to the preaching (talk on the Bible) and the more formal part of the meeting is over, please feel free to come and ask any questions if you'd like to. And do stick around for a brew.
You're really welcome.
How can I make this church my home?
We know joining a new church can be tricky - you know no-one, everyone else seems to know at least someone - we'd love to help you through the awkward phase until church starts to feel like home!
Good news is, if you confess that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that He died for our sins and was raised from the dead, then you're already one of the family! (If you're not quite there yet, we'd love to help you meet Jesus!)
We don't have a formal membership process, but we do have some family values based on the Bible - you can find them here. These will give you a flavour of where we're going and who we want to be. Have a look, see what you think - do these things stir you too? Do you want to come with us?
We'd love to help you get to know people - and we'd love to get to know you. If you'd like to go for a coffee with someone, ask questions about church and how you can become involved, then reach out to one of our leaders on a Sunday - or drop us a message below.
Lifegroups are a great way to get to know people - again, just ask one of us about how you can get involved - we'd love to help you out.