What to Expect When You Come

Hi!

     I  know what it's like to be a newcomer to a church.  I didn't think I'd know anyone there, and I didn't know what to do.  So, I wanted to help you out by giving you a general idea about what you might expect when you come to Grace Church.

    If you can, you might want to come a few minutes early to find your way.  If you are early enough, you'll find parking on the streets immediately by the church facilities.  Some folks park in the lot on 3rd Avenue, between the church and Warner's Funeral Home.  There's parking on the streets around the courthouse, of course.  And there are other parking lots nearby at Farmer's Trust & Savings Bank or the Iowa State University Building (both just a half-block from the church on W. 4th St.).  There's also a public lot up that way.

    Many people come into the church through the doors on 2nd Avenue.  Some folks come from the Warner's parking lot, or through the door that is near the overhang on W. 4th St.  Just follow the people or the signs on the walls pointing to the sanctuary.

     The 8:30 worship service is more traditional, with the service printed in the bulletin (program), music by the organ, and special music by the church choirs (September-May) or by individuals in the summer.  You'll see people dressed up for this service, but there are also many people who come dressed more informally.  The pastor's wear worship robes September-May but are also a bit more informal in the summer.  You can come however you are comfortable.

     The 11:00 worship service features a 'praise band' that often plays more up-tempo music, kind of in the style of the worship cd's you may have seen offered in television commercials over the last year.  The service is a bit more free-flowing, in that you won't find the order of worship in the printed program.  People tend to dress more informally for this service.

    Which ever service you attend, you'll be warmly welcomed, but you can come, listen, absorb, and leave without feeling any pressure.  For example, like most churches an offering is taken, but as a guest you are not expected to contribute financially unless YOU want to do so.  Members have chosen to support the church, but as our guest, YOU are welcome simply to come and enjoy without any expectation of giving money.

     If you have young children with you, there is something called 'Children's Moments' during each worship service, so children certainly are welcome to stay with you.  Some parents find their young children are more content in the church nursery (to say nothing about the parents being able to participate in worship more fully!).  There are signs on the walls pointing to the nursery, and someone will be there at the nursery door to tell you about how it works.  If you need help finding the nursery, please feel free to ask one of the people who greet you at the doors, or a church usher at the doors to the sanctuary.                                                                   

     I hope this overview helps you.  I know we're in for some pretty incredible days at Grace Church worship!  I hope you'll be with us.

Your friend,

Another Newcomer

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