Frequently Asked Questions about St. John's
Are United Methodists Christians?
Yes. United Methodists join with many millions across the world who proclaim Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Do I have to be a member to come?
Absolutely not. Our church has no secrets and anyone can participate in almost every area of church life.
Is there a charge for worshipping?
If you are visiting for the first time, your presence is a real gift to us. If you are a frequent guest you are invited to join us in our ministry by offering a monetary contribution as you are able. The amount is between God and you. However, the Bible standard, which members are encouraged to work toward, is giving ten percent of your income. It’s always good to have a goal!
What is expected of me in a worship service?
The expectation is for you is to simply enjoy worship. We know it takes time for people to be at ease in any new situation, including worship. Participate when you feel comfortable and feel free to ask questions so as to enhance your worship experience.
Is there a dress code?
Absolutely not. Please come as you are.
What are the differences between the worship services?
What happens during worship?
The main components are: singing, prayers, sermon, a time of offering, and special music. On the first Sunday of the month we also have Holy Communion.
What is “Holy Communion”?
Holy Communion is a sacrament, a sacred moment, when we all “commune” with each other by sharing bread and in our tradition, grape juice. These “elements” represent and help us remember the body and blood of Christ and His sacrifice for us on the cross. In the United Methodist Church, all are welcome to participate if they feel comfortable doing so.
What about children?
Children of all ages ARE welcome in worship. A little noise from our little ones just adds to the joy of the morning! About midway through the service, the children who would like to be a part of Children’s Church are invited to go with one of our leaders to our chapel for a more age-appropriate message (Children's Church). However, children are welcome to stay with their family.
If you have small children and if you prefer, you are welcome to leave them in our professionally staffed nursery, located in the Education building. All nursery doors and outside doors in close proximity are locked for the safety of our littlest ones. Access to the nursery is through the main entrance. Our ushers or greeters will be glad to show you where it is. Also, on the north side of the sanctuary there is a “cry room” for parents to sit with little ones who may get restless.
Do you have Sunday school?
Sunday school for all ages, including adults, is available at 9:45 in various rooms. There are other educational opportunities as well, including Sunday afternoon at 3 for adults, and Wednesday evening classes for all at 5:30, with a staffed nursery.
Are you my children safe in your church?
Yes, please see our safety guidelines for more information.
How can I get involved in the community?
Check out all our ministries!
Yes. United Methodists join with many millions across the world who proclaim Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Do I have to be a member to come?
Absolutely not. Our church has no secrets and anyone can participate in almost every area of church life.
Is there a charge for worshipping?
If you are visiting for the first time, your presence is a real gift to us. If you are a frequent guest you are invited to join us in our ministry by offering a monetary contribution as you are able. The amount is between God and you. However, the Bible standard, which members are encouraged to work toward, is giving ten percent of your income. It’s always good to have a goal!
What is expected of me in a worship service?
The expectation is for you is to simply enjoy worship. We know it takes time for people to be at ease in any new situation, including worship. Participate when you feel comfortable and feel free to ask questions so as to enhance your worship experience.
Is there a dress code?
Absolutely not. Please come as you are.
What are the differences between the worship services?
- Praise and Worship, 9:00 AM: Here you will enjoy music that you might listen to on Christian music stations led by the “Heart of Worship” band, featuring Chris Commisso, a local artist. This worship is less structured and more lively, perfect for those non-traditionalists among us.
- Traditional Worship, 10:30 AM: Here we follow the time-honored and comfortable liturgy that people have grown up with. Songs are sung out of our hymnal and accompanied by an organ. The Chancel Choir sings each week and the lovely Bell Choir rings monthly.
What happens during worship?
The main components are: singing, prayers, sermon, a time of offering, and special music. On the first Sunday of the month we also have Holy Communion.
What is “Holy Communion”?
Holy Communion is a sacrament, a sacred moment, when we all “commune” with each other by sharing bread and in our tradition, grape juice. These “elements” represent and help us remember the body and blood of Christ and His sacrifice for us on the cross. In the United Methodist Church, all are welcome to participate if they feel comfortable doing so.
What about children?
Children of all ages ARE welcome in worship. A little noise from our little ones just adds to the joy of the morning! About midway through the service, the children who would like to be a part of Children’s Church are invited to go with one of our leaders to our chapel for a more age-appropriate message (Children's Church). However, children are welcome to stay with their family.
If you have small children and if you prefer, you are welcome to leave them in our professionally staffed nursery, located in the Education building. All nursery doors and outside doors in close proximity are locked for the safety of our littlest ones. Access to the nursery is through the main entrance. Our ushers or greeters will be glad to show you where it is. Also, on the north side of the sanctuary there is a “cry room” for parents to sit with little ones who may get restless.
Do you have Sunday school?
Sunday school for all ages, including adults, is available at 9:45 in various rooms. There are other educational opportunities as well, including Sunday afternoon at 3 for adults, and Wednesday evening classes for all at 5:30, with a staffed nursery.
Are you my children safe in your church?
Yes, please see our safety guidelines for more information.
How can I get involved in the community?
Check out all our ministries!
