What To Expect

We know that it can be a hassle knowing where to go and what to do the first time you visit so here is some information to help make it easier. Here is what will happen when you come. When you drive up to the building, you will notice that there are Guest Parking spots reserved for you along Manor Ridge Drive. Please feel free to park in one of these spots, since they are most convenient to our entrance.

When you come in the Manor Ridge Drive entrance, there will be someone to greet you and hand you a program. They also will answer any questions you might have. Dress however you feel comfortable. Most people wear jeans or shorts (usually the pastor is in blue jeans). The atmosphere is relaxed which we trust you will find inviting. Feel free to stay as anonymous as you like when you visit us, or jump right in and start building friendships.

If you have brought children with you ages 1 – 6th grade there are classes for the children. (We have a parents room for those with infants under age 1 or they can choose to join us in the service). These classes run for the length of the entire service. (Even though the kids ministry is quite fun, if you feel more comfortable with your children in the worship gathering, that’s fine too.) There are signs marking the way to the Kids Ministry downstairs. Once you arrive at the classrooms, a teacher will greet you and sign your children in for the morning. You also receive a security badge which you will present again when you pick your child up. This helps make sure your children are safe.

After you drop off your kids, come into the sanctuary where there will be music playing softly. The service starts at 10:30 with one of the worship leaders leading us in a time of worship songs. We sing songs to Jesus for approximately 30 minutes. During this time you can feel free to stand, sit, sing, clap, raise your hands or stick them in your pockets, or simply sit back and relax. During worship time there may be times of silence. These are simply times for us all to focus ourselves on God and His goodness. There may also be times of prayer or times where the leader shares something that is on his or her heart. The first Sunday of every month we also celebrate the Lord’s Supper where we remember Jesus death on the cross and His resurrection from the dead.

Following 30 minutes of worship we will take a 2 minute break. This is a great time to sit and reflect or to meet some people around you.

Following the break there will be a couple of announcements and then the sermon. The sermon lasts for approximately 30 – 40 minutes. The idea is to have fun while also learning something practical we can use in our daily lives. The sermon frequently includes video, the arts, creativity, stories, and/or humor to apply the Bible to our daily lives.

Following the sermon there is another short time of worship and an opportunity for you to have someone pray with you should you desire. There are caring people who want to listen to you and ask Jesus to come and touch any needs you might have.

After the service come downstairs and grab a cup of coffee and hang around awhile. This is a great chance to get to meet some people around the church. If you want to stay anonymous, we totally understand that too.

Once per month we also have a potluck that you are welcome to join in with us (we always have plenty!) and one other time per month a bunch of us grab lunch at a local restaurant together (you’re welcome to join us there, too).

Whew, I know it sounds like a lot happens, but the whole worship gathering time truly flies by!