Puzzled about what you should do during church services?
What happens when I arrive?
We suggest newcomers enter through the front red door; someone will greet you and offer you a bulletin with the order of service in it. You can make your way into the Sanctuary and you will find hymnbooks in the pews or on a table in the narthex. There are also words to follow on the screen in front of the sanctuary. When the yellow words come up that means ‘all’ are invited to speak those words!
What are services like?
Not preachy. Not judgy. Just comfortable. Dress as you like and enjoy the upbeat worship, spiritual videos, and compelling sermons.
We usually start with music as people arrive. There will be a welcome, announcements, introductions and sometimes “passing the peace” –greeting people sitting nearby. We share in a call to worship, prayers together and then listen to the scripture in a neat video!
The service is interspersed with music – both traditional hymns and contemporary songs. Occasionally we employ other arts: storybooks, dramatic skits, video and science!
There’s also usually a time during the service when people can briefly share joys and concerns at the start of prayers of the people. A mic is brought around so people can share.
Where are the washrooms?
Three public all gender washrooms are found in the church basement - a single-person bathroom at the end of the back hall and one in the Jessie Scott Room, and a larger accessible washroom with diaper-changing facilities and an additional, kid-sized toilet to the side of the large church hall.
How long are services?
Most church services are about 50 - 60 minutes, or a little longer if communion is involved. If you need to leave during a service, no one will complain if you slip out.
Where do I sit?
You can sit where you would like: front, middle or back. You can also sit with children in the youth area near the front left side of the church sanctuary.
Please make yourself comfortable! We don’t mind.
What about when the service is over?
Usually after the Sunday morning services, tea, coffee, juice and of course cookies are served in the church hall. “Just follow the crowds!” Right now we are waiting on our kitchen renovation to be able to host you!
Standing? Sitting? Singing?
If you are not sure what to do, just follow everyone else or, if you prefer, you can just remain seated throughout the service. Often Rev. Emma will invite you to stand as you are able for hymns and other special moments.
You are under no obligation to join in any of the singing or even to like the music. We know we don't all have the same musical tastes and we don't expect you to, either.
Do I have to give money?
Don't feel embarrassed to pass the collection plate to the next person without putting anything in it. We really appreciate your giving because we have many dreams. However, many people contribute time and skill, and some who contribute financially do so directly through their bank accounts. You won't be the only one just passing the plate on.
If you do wish to contribute an offering, you can use the envelopes in the pews indicating your name and address so we can issue a tax receipt to you.
What if I'm bringing children?
If you have children, they are welcome to sit with you or to go play in the Children’s Area at the front-left of the sanctuary.
Kids are also welcome to join us for Messy Church, an evening of crafts, music, dinner and fun.
“
I really enjoy the feeling of belonging and community within the building, and the support I feel from the community at Kimbourne Park.
We are able to welcome anyone and everyone through our building door, no matter what walk of life you have been on, or where you are at in that moment
. It makes me really proud.”
— Ketri
Do you have kids? Want to learn about the opportunities available for them?