FAQs that Newcomers Often Have About Their First Visit to Our Fellowship:
1. What goes on during the worship services?
Our worship usually follows an order of service with elements like readings, singing, meditation, and sermon. There are occasional innovative and diverse services that invite congregants to engage in dancing, conversation, drumming, or other types of activities.
Our minister usually leads three services a month. The other month’s service is either led by fellowship members or by a guest speaker. Check the newsletter or the Sunday Service web page to read a description of the upcoming service.
2. Will I be able to speak to the minister? Our minister enjoys greeting newcomers, so unless she is tied up with other demands (or if it is her Sunday off) there is a good chance that you will be able to speak with her, for example, at the visitor welcoming table after the service.
3. Are people of diverse racial backgrounds welcome in this congregation?
We are an open and loving community. We encourage and support people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds to join us.
4. Are there bisexual, gay, lesbian, and transgendered people in this congregation? Are they welcome?
Yes. Our congregation is officially a “Welcoming Congregation” which affirms and promotes the inherent worth and dignity of every human being. (See the Principles and Purposes of our Association and our Fellowship Covenant.)
5. What should we wear to this fellowship?
Our Fellowship is mostly a casual place. There are some who choose to dress up, but for the most part people come in comfortable attire. Children, especially the youngest ones, should be dressed for comfort. Our Nursery accommodates infants, toddlers and preschoolers and offers playtime on the playground.
6. Is there childcare/Sunday School during fellowship services?
We offer childcare for infants and toddlers from 9:45 am to 11:30 am. We also currently offer activities for children up to age 12 or so. Our Religious Education Program for children and youth is currently undergoing revision. Stay tuned.
7. If my child doesn’t separate well, can she or he stay with me in the service?
We always welcome children to stay for the entire service. However, please be aware that the sermon is generally for an adult audience and younger children especially may not be interested. If you need to leave the service because of a fussy child or other reason, the service can still be heard from a speaker on the front patio and in the foyer. Parents who wish to stay in the nursery for all or part of the service are welcome to do so.
8. Is there easy parking?
Yes. Once you turn into the Fellowship campus you will see ample parking with a spillover section in the back.
9. Will I feel pressured to give money if I am a visitor?
No. A basket is passed, but there is absolutely no obligation to contribute. We are simply pleased that you chose to visit us.
10. Will I be locked out if I am late to the service?
No. Latecomers are asked to enter quietly from a side door that is clearly marked. Seats are normally reserved in the back row for latecomers.
11. What if something about my visit bothers or concerns me?
We would certainly like to hear about it. Please mention it to the Greeter at the Visitor Table or at the Welcome Table table after the service or to the minister.