Are you new to church?

It can be intimidating walking into a church for the first time. Or maybe it’s just been a long time (like 30 years ago when your mum dragged you to Sunday School). A lot has changed since then – the songs are singable, the sermon understandable, and you don’t need to come in a suit. (By the way, we’d love to see you this Sunday.)

Does it matter where I sit? I don’t want to sit in someone elses seat..

There aren’t any reserved seats in Christ Church, we’re always happy for people to visit our church, whether that be to join in with a service, to listen to the silence or simply to appreciate the peace and awe of the place.

Will there be a collection?

In most services we do not pass around a collection plate. Instead, we leave the plate at the back of the church before and after services. We hope that our visitors value the experiences they have at Christ Church and we welcome donations towards the work we do here. Many of our regular friends make regular gifts which help us carry out this work in our community and further afield.

Will I know when to stand up and sit down?

Many of our services are guided by a powerpoint order of service which is displayed on screen. This allows us to reduce our paper consumption and enrich the words with beautiful pictures. We also sometimes use service booklets which explain what is going on. Typically, your responses are printed in Bold type and the service leader will indicate when to stand or sit.

What happens at Communion?

At the moment, due to the pandemic, communion is brought to the congregation in the form of a bread wafer only( gluten free options are available – just ask) No words are spoken. All Christians are welcome to receive communion at our church. If you would prefer a simple blessing,just keep your hands down. Once you have been visited, just sit down.

I have kids – are they allowed?

We welcome young families to our services. Our 10am Sunday service is particularly aimed at those with young families. There is a selection of toys and books in the area to the right of the church at the front. Once your children are a little older they can join in with our sunday club activities. We also run a group for young children and their parents – Little Fishes.

I’m not sure if I believe in God – can I still come?

We are all at different stages in our personal journey to know God. Those who are seeking him or want to find out more are always welcome. We run Alpha courses directed at those who have fundamental questions about God and adult baptism classes for those who are ready to commit more. Where ever you are in your journey you will always be welcome here. Come and talk to us.

Will I have to shake hands with a lot of strangers during the service?

Sadly not at the moment with COVID safe precautions in place. In our services there is usually a time during the service when members of the congregation greet each other with the words “peace be with you”. This can be a bit daunting but everyone you meet will be delighted to see you and the greeting will be genuine. Just go with it – as you get to know us this will be a strongly affirmative experience.