What to Expect on Sundays
At Elizabeth Presbyterian, we do our best to make people feel at
home. Nevertheless, we recognize it can feel awkward to
attend a new church for the first time, so here are some tips to
help you know in advance what to expect.
What Should I Wear?
You will 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
feel welcomed.
Where Can I Park?
The church has parking available on the street in front and the
parking lot in back. The small house next door to the
church on the south is the office.
Is the Church Wheelchair Accessible?
Yes. We have several members in wheelchairs, and we keep
their needs in mind. The parking lot includes several
spots designated with handicapped parking. The rear
entrance has a ramp entry. Members would be happy to help
if needed. The sanctuary and a handicap accessible
restroom are on the main level. You are welcome to sit
anywhere in the sanctuary. Usually our pastor and the lay
leader sit in the first row. An usher will gladly help you
find a seat if you wish.
What Do You Do in Worship?
We offer two styles of worship; traditional and contemporary.
At the traditional service at 8:30 a.m. there is a bulletin in
which you will find the readings, hymn numbers, unison prayers,
Scriptures, etc. We usually begin our services with
prayers and praise. We corporately and personally confess
our sins, hear words of forgiveness and share the peace of
Christ with a handshake or hug. After the Children's time,
our lay reader will share Scripture. Then our pastor will
preach on the Scripture. Our choir usually sings during
the offering time. Finally, we share joys and concerns,
leading to the prayers for the people. We use the words
"debts" and "debtors" in our Lord's Prayer. We go out with
a charge and a benediction.
During our contemporary service at 10:30 a.m., our praise band
and singers lead the singing. Words are displayed on the
screen in front. The other essentials of worship are
included as well.
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 our visitors to make an offering.
Are Children Welcome?
Absolutely. Children are welcome in the worship service;
Biblical coloring sheets are available at the entrance.
Children's time in both services involves a short discussion and
prayer. Afterwards, during the traditional service,
children rejoin their family and remain in the sanctuary for the
rest of the service. Afterwards, during the contemporary
service, there is Children's Church in our lower level, with
singing, reading and crafts. We have nursery facilities
for infants, as well. EPC has a written child protection
policy, available for your review.
How Long Does Church Last?
Our services usually last about one hour. A fellowship
time follows between services with lots of coffee, tea and
treats provided by volunteers, and we hope you'll join us to get
to know us better and ask questions. at 10:45 a.m., Sunday
School class for adults takes place in the little house next
door (the church office). This class lasts about one hour.
Study topics vary.
When is Communion Held, and Should I Take It?
Communion is ordinarily served on the first Sunday of the month.
In the contemporary service we receive communion by intinction.
This involves proceeding to the front of the sanctuary, tearing
bread from the loaf and dipping it into the juice before eating
it. In the traditional service, bread is served to the
communicants as they stay seated. It is consumed
individually when served to signify our personal relationship
with God. Then the juice is served, held, and we drink it
together when signaled to do so by our pastor.
We welcome all baptized Christians to share in communion with
us, but you may prefer to not take communion. It is your
choice.
I'm New Here