Visiting any church for the very first time can make anyone a little nervous. Where do I go? What do I wear? What time do I show up? What’s here for my kids? What can I expect? These and many more questions can come to your mind.
Well, we want to put you at ease. Your first visit to Hopewell Methodist Church will be refreshing, friendly and enjoyable for your whole family. We want you to experience inspiring music, helpful teaching and preaching, friendly people, and a place where you feel welcome and “at home!” Here are a few answers to your questions about what you might expect on your first visit.
Do you have a nursery or Sunday School?
Yes. Nursery care is provided during all services for children 4 years of age and under. Children from Kindergarten through 5th grade attend Christian education class during our church service each Sunday. We learn about Jesus through Bible stories, games, songs and crafts. All children are welcome whatever background (or lack of background) that they may have. We welcome your children, grandchildren, neighbors and friends! Children join us in the sanctuary for the beginning of worship, and then come forward for a brief message just for them, and then the teachers and students depart for their classroom and nursery.
What time are worship services?
Our Sunday morning worship service is 10 a.m.
What are your services like?
Our services are what is commonly called a “blended” worship style. This means we use a mix of traditional and contemporary elements. The focus of all of our services is connecting with God. The music includes many of the great hymns of the faith and songs from our choir as well as contemporary praise music, led by the praise band. We share our prayer concerns as well as have time for private prayer. Generally, we sing hymns, pray, collect offering, hear an inspiring and challenging message from the pastor and sometimes there is a time for response.
What should I wear?
There is not a dress code at Hopewell Methodist Church for members or guests. Our members wear a variety of styles of casual or business casual clothing. You are welcome just as you are.
Do visitors have to stand up and say anything?
Not at all. We do have a “Welcome Packet” for each guest, which our greeters will be glad to share with you. We hope you’ll sign the Visitor Cards in each row of seats so we’ll be able to stay in touch with you.
Am I expected to participate in the offering?
No. We don’t invite you to Hopewell Methodist for your offering. We want our service to be a gift to you. We hope you will find in this place a warm family spirit, truth from God’s Word, and a place where you can grow in God’s grace. Please don’t feel any obligation to participate in the offering as a guest.
Other questions?
If there’s something we missed on this list, just give us a call, or ask someone when you arrive. Our pastor is available to meet with you and answer any faith questions you may have.
Whether you’re new to the area and looking for a church home, or if it’s been a long time since you’ve attended church at all, we hope your first visit at Hopewell Methodist will be meaningful. We exist to serve you and your family, and we are looking forward to meeting you personally.
You may find more information about our church on the About Us and the Mission & Core Values pages.
Pastor Laura Steele serves as the lead pastor of Hopewell United Methodist Church.