I’m New Here & Don’t Know What to Expect

If you are thinking about visiting with us on a Sunday morning or Thursday evening and have questions about our services, here is information we hope will be helpful to you.

 

What time do you have services?

The Sunday service begins at 10:00 AM and runs for about an hour and a half. There is time for informal fellowship immediately afterward. Thursday evenings we begin at 7:00 PM.

 

Where is the church located, and how do I get there?

We are located at 51 Village Square Mall in Effingham, IL (Use the Back Side Entrance). The Mall is located just south of Downtown Effingham.

We are easy to find in the Effingham area. We are located on the East side of US 45, which is Banker Street in town . There are 3 Effingham interstate exits. If you drive on the main through fares, and head either east or south, you will eventually cross or join US 45.   For a map of where we are, click here.

 

Where do I park?

There is a parking lot directly behind the Village Square Mall.  There are plenty of handicapped and visitor parking reserved just for you.

 

What should I wear?

We want you to be comfortable. At our church, you’ll find some people dressed in casual weekend clothes and others in their traditional “Sunday best.” Nobody’s keeping track of what you wear–we’re just happy to see you.

 

Are children welcome?

Yes! From infants through high school students, all young people are welcome. There is child care provided, when requested, on Sunday during worship, but your children are welcome to stay with you if you prefer. For children who are ready, we offer Sunday School during the service.

If you have very young children, you may be worried about their behavior–what if a baby cries? What if a toddler is squirmy? Don’t worry.  If bringing your children to church means packing a coloring book for a toddler or walking around as you rock a baby, you will get support from our community. We are always glad to have families with us!

We also have a baby changing station in the Ladies Room, if you need to change a diaper or clean up your child.
Will I be asked to participate in the offering?

The offering is a time for our members to support the church and its ministries. If you are a guest or visitor, there is no expectation that you will contribute. We are just glad you came.

 

What kind of music will there be?

Music is an integral part of worship. We sing a variety of traditional hymns as well as contemporary songs.

 

Is the church handicapped accessible?

Yes. You may enter through the Mall door.  We have a handicapped accessible bathroom near the Sanctuary.

 

 

Do you ever take Communion?
We offer Communion from time as part of our worship experience, and all are welcome to participate. You do not have to be baptized or declare a specific set of beliefs to share in the joyful feast of God. We offer grape juice and Challah bread.

 

 

We’re an interfaith family. Is that okay?

Yes. We embrace interfaith families and have a a deep commitment to religious freedom. Our congregation includes interfaith families and visitors tell us that they feel welcome at our services. When mom is Protestant and dad is Catholic, or one partner is Christian and one is Jewish, it can be hard to feel “at home” in any worship space. We hope you will feel at home in ours.

 

What if I’m not sure what I believe?

No problem. Everyone’s faith journey is different. Some members of our congregation are lifelong Christians and the church feels like a home. Others grew up in a variety of denominations, but felt pulled toward a broader interpretation of faith as adults. And still others are coming from a secular background, exploring spiritual feelings that are just emerging. Most likely, you’ll find someone at our church who is in a similar place as you.
Will I be asked to introduce myself?

We’re a friendly bunch and likely to come over and say hello, but no one will ask you to stand up and introduce yourself. For some people, church is very social, and for others, it is more of a meditative and quiet time. Do what feels right to you.

 

What is the Order of Worship?


Our service will feel familiar to anyone from a mainline Protestant denomination. Our services have a lot of participation with responsive singing, mingling, and reading of Bible verses. You may participate as you feel comfortable.

 

If you have any additional questions, please get in touch with us. We look forward to hearing from you at (217) 821-2199 or [Contact Us] .