We're very much aware that visiting any church for the first time can be a pretty daunting experience. Even people who are familiar with Christian worship find it quite hard to walk into a different place on a Sunday so for those who haven't been in the habit of going to church, just getting through the front door seems like a real endurance test.
But if you do choose to visit on a Sunday morning around half past ten what will you find?
First of all, you should find someone will greet you at the door, they will be glad to know if your are a visitor and will help direct you into the church either up the stairs or by way of the lift if you should need it.
Who is in charge?
Good question - most of us would answer that God is, but on Sunday mornings the Duty Steward is responsible for making sure that everything is in place for the the service to proceed. The service will be led by either an Ordained Minister or by one of the Local Preachers. Members of the congregation will usually read the bible lessons and will often participate in any drama, meditations or music that might be included in the service.
Does it matter where I sit?
No - you can sit anywhere you like - the pews are all just as hard as each other!! The church at Hove is in the style of a 19th Century preaching house and has retained its pulpit and gallery which provides the opportunity for a different perspective on the worship area. The ground floor has traditional pews, however we have made spaces to accommodate wheelchair access.
What happens during the Service?
Most Sunday mornings there will be about 70 people present -sometimes more - sometimes less. There will be hymns or songs, prayers, bible readings and a sermon. The service will last about an hour. We usually stand to sing and sit to listen - so it shouldn't be too difficult to follow. In our church we tend not to kneel for prayers - but that doesn't preclude you from doing so and cushions are situated in each row. There is usually a collection towards the end of the service.
On the first Sunday in the month it is likely that the service will include the sacrament of Holy Communion. This is a symbolic meal of bread and wine shared towards the end of the service. At Hove you're welcome to share in that, whoever you are and wherever you come from.
Are children allowed in?
Children are more than welcome at Hove. Details of the Sunday Club activities can be found here. There is plenty of space to sit with babies and toddlers if they get restless. The Stewards will also be able to direct you to the baby changing facilities and provide help with anything else that might be necessary.
What happens after the service?
Tea and coffee are served in the Crush hall at the end of the service. We hope you'll, stay. We want visitors to feel welcome but not overwhelmed!
