First visit to First Church in Marlborough? Here's what you can expect:
At First Church, we understand that visiting a new church for the first time can be an uncomfortable experience if you are not sure what to expect. To help you out, here are a few tips to make your first visit an enjoyable one.
Before the Service - There are greeters at the door each Sunday morning to say hello and encourage you to sign our guest book. There are orders of service available and if you like, the ushers can seat you with someone who can guide you through the service. We use the Chalice Hymnal. Then numbers for songs and readings are printed in the bulletin.
As the Service Begins: There are announcements where the community reminds each other of upcoming activities and ministries needs. Usually, guests who are there for the first or second time are welcomed and asked to raise their hand. You do not have to raise you hand, but if you do, the deacons may have a small gift to share.
Worship - We have a different styles of worship service, depending on the day of the month. Often there is a theme that is carried through the service. Most of the time, the worship service included our Chancel Choir, organ or piano. On a regular basis we include our handbell choir, the UpPraiser Band, our Children's Choir or a soloist.
Children and Nursery- Infants and toddlers are welcome to stay with their parents during the service. However, childcare is available for those who would be happier in our nursery. Children under 3 are welcome in the nursery where we have a CORI checked registered Nanny as our caregiver and extra hands if there are more than a few children. On Communion Sunday, children start down stairs at Sunday School and then join the congregation during communion. On the second and third Sundays, children age 3 and up participate in the first 20 minutes of worship, and then go to Sunday School after the Children's Conversation with the pastor. For the Children's Conversation, the pastor invites all the children to the front for a few minutes, and tells a story or shares a simple lesson. Their answers to his questions can be both entertaining and insightful. There are programs for preschool, elementary age children and junior high students. Senior High students are encouraged to stay for worship. On the fourth Sundays, children of all ages are encourage to participate in the whole service. This service often has more story telling, activities or music.
During Joys and Concerns: Most services includes a time when the congregation is asked to share joys and concerns. If you have something to share publicly, raise you hand, wait to be recognized and speak loudly and clearly. If you prefer not to speak, give a written note to a deacon and they will bring it to the pastor to read aloud.
During the offering: The ushers will pass a plate into which people are encouraged to donate money. For the first or second time, the gift we would like most is the offering of your name, how to contact you and any needs or wishes you have to share with us.
What to Wear - Most members dress comfortably for worship. First Church is a casual, family church.
After the Service - On most Sundays, the pastor goes to the back of the church where she can greet people who wish to say hello. Usually, we gather for fellowship and refreshments in Fellowship Hall down stairs. Most people would be very glad to accompany a guest to coffee time.
