Before attending a church service for the first time, you might like to have an idea of what to expect on your visit.
Our biggest service is 11am on a Sunday where we meet in the main hall of the building with an overflow space into the back hall. We also have a smaller gathering at 6:30pm which is just in the main hall.
During the service:
- We sing a mixture of old and new songs. The words will be on a projector screen, sometimes on a Sunday evening we use hymn books.
- We pray together. Usually the service leader will lead us in a prayer and occasionally we have an opportunity for open prayer where anyone in the congregation can pray but we there is no obligation to do this.
- We read the Bible and hear it explained in a straightforward way. You will be offered a copy of the Bible in a modern translation so that you can follow the readings.
Other things to note:
- How long does the service last? Usually between 1 hour 15 minutes up to 1 hour 30 minutes. (1st Sunday communion services may mean we go a little over this)
- What should I wear? There is no expectation of any particular style of dress.
- How many people are there? We have anywhere from 60-90 people of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds. In the evening service we usually have 20-30 people present.
- What about my children?
- There is a crèche room for babies/toddlers and a parent.
- There is a Sunday club for primary school aged children most weeks (not 2nd Sunday or school holidays) when in the service there are sermon note sheets to help children follow along. Older children remain in the service. We have a youth group (11-16 year olds) that currently meets 1st Sundays 5-6:15pm.
- Will I be able to hear? There is an audio induction loop to help everyone hear clearly.
- What happens at the end? After the service we have tea, coffee, biscuits etc. and an opportunity for us to get to know you.
- Do I need give money? you will not be asked for money, but if you would like to donate money there is a box on the table at the back. Many regular people arrange an online banking standing order (STO) – ask the Treasurer for details if you would like to do the same.
Other things to note:
As a church, we share a common belief that Jesus has provided the solution to our greatest need. This need is to have a restored relationship with the God who made us. You can read more about that on the page about what we believe.
On some Sundays we have a Church lunch, a time in which all church attendees (including visitors) gather in the back hall of the church for a meal. If there is no organised church lunch, there is usually opportunity to join others for a meal either in a home or at a local restaurant.
If you have any questions about visiting Calvary Church, please don’t hesitate to contact us.