What to Expect on Sundays ·
We recognize it can feel awkward to attend a new church for the first time. Hoping you’ll feel comfortable at Calvary, we offer this guidance:
What Should I Wear?
You’ll feel comfortable here, no matter what your fashion style. Some people wear suits or dresses; others come in casual slacks, jeans, or shorts. Whatever you wear, you’ll be welcomed.
Where Can I Park?
The church faces Holly Street, and some parking is available along the street. We have ample spaces in the main parking lot behind the church. We’ve even reserved a spot for visitors!
Where are Worship Services Held?
We hold Sunday worship services in the sanctuary. As you enter the church through the blue doors from the parking lot, the sanctuary will be straight ahead of you.
Is the Church Wheelchair Accessible?
Yes. We have several members in wheelchairs, and we keep their needs in mind. The parking lot includes spots designated for handicapped parking. The sanctuary and some classrooms are on the main level, as are our wheelchair-accessible bathrooms. For classes held upstairs, we have a chair lift for your convenience.
Where May I Sit?
You are welcome to sit anywhere in the sanctuary. Usually, our pastor and the lay reader take seats in the first row. The choir is typically seated by our organ and grand piano. An usher will gladly help you find a seat if you wish.
Will I Be Able to Follow Along in the Worship Service?
As you enter, an usher will hand you a bulletin which lists the parts of our service. Communal prayers are printed in the bulletin. Songs are either printed in the bulletin or referred to by number to the Presbyterian Hymnal found in the seat pocket in front of you.
What Do You Do in Worship?
We usually begin our services with prayers and praise. We corporately confess our sin, hear words of forgiveness, and share the peace of Christ with a handshake or hug. After the Children’s Time, our lay reader will read from Scripture, often from the Lectionary. Then our pastor will preach on the Scripture. During the offering, our choir sings. Finally, we have time to share joys and concerns, leading to the prayers for the people. We go out with a charge and benediction.
Do I Need to Make a Financial Offering?
No. The offering is part of our worship because it gives us an opportunity to give back from the many blessings we have received from God. The offering plate is passed down the row. You might wish to contribute at that time, but we do not expect any of our visitors to make an offering.
Are Children Welcome?
Absolutely. Children are welcome in the worship service; activity bags are available from the ushers. During the Children’s Time, our pastor spends a few minutes discussing the theme of our worship with the children. Afterward, the children often choose to go with our teachers to the children’s room for singing, reading, and crafts. We have nursery facilities for infants as well. Calvary has a written child protection policy, available for your review.
How Long Does Church Last?
Our worship services usually last about one hour. A short coffee break follows, and we hope you’ll stay to get to know us better and ask questions. At 10:45 am, Sunday school classes for children, youth, and adults begin, also lasting about one hour.
When is Communion Held, and Should I Take It?
Communion is ordinarily served on the first Sunday of the month. We receive communion by intinction, meaning that, as we proceed to the front of the sanctuary, each person tears a piece of bread from the loaf, dips the piece in grape juice, then eats it. Our oral response to each gift of bread and juice is usually, "Amen" or "Thanks be to God." If you have food allergies, please let an usher know, so that we may accommodate your needs. We welcome all baptized Christians to share in communion with us, but you may prefer to not take communion. It is your choice.