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What to expect

Setting foot in a new church or any church for the first time can be a daunting thought. But it doesn't have to be. Here is what you can expect from St. James Church on a Sunday morning.

What time should I arrive?

The service starts at 10:30am and lasts a little over an hour. Arriving at 10:15am will give you time to get your bearings, choose where to sit and for someone in our welcome team to say hello.

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What should I wear?

There is no dress code or "Sunday best". Just come as you are and wear whatever you feel most comfortable in.

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What will happen?

One of the leaders at St. James' (usually the vicar) will get things going with a prayer of welcome.

The band will then lead a song or two to start the service. The words for the songs will be projected onto screens at the front of church, but don't worry if you don't know the songs - no-one is testing you and we are learning new ones all the time.

There will be prayers, some Bible readings and a short talk. The aim of the talk is understand more about the Bible, God himself and what it means to follow Jesus.

There will be words we all say together, which will be led by the vicar or another service leader. More songs and a bit where we all shake hands and say hello to each other. At most services we will have an act of Holy Communion, where the vicar will invite us to the front of church to take bread and wine.

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If you are not sure about what's going on or why we are doing something, please do ask someone. There are no silly questions.

 

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Can I bring my children?

Absolutely. We would love you to.

A little after the first song(s) children of primary school age can go to our Sunday Club to engage in worship and learning that is more tailored to their age. If they would prefer to stay with you that is fine also.

For younger children, we have a creche area at the back of the church. Here you will find books a range of quiet(ish) toys. We don't expect your children to be silent because that's not what young children do, but be concious of other people worshipping. One of the most helpful things you can do is help and encourage your little one to join in with the worship.

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Is there disabled access?

There is level access on Beaufort Grove at the side of the church. The church itself is all on one level and there is accessible seating in the body of the church and on the side aisles.

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Can I leave half way through if I feel uncomfortable?

If you feel uncomfortable, you can leave at any time.

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Will I be the "odd one out"?

Definitely not! There are people at St. James' from all types of background, walks of life and different countries. We make a big effort to welcome and be gracious and kind to everyone... because that is the kind of love that God shows us.

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Can I still come if I'm not a Christian?

Of course. The church is made up of people who know they need Jesus' saving grace in their lives.

There are all kinds of people, each with their own story who have been welcomed as part of the family at St. James'.

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Will I be expected to give money?

We welcome any donations, but we will not expect anything from you as a visitor. We take a collection, but this is for people commited to St. James' Church. We accept payments in cash or by card. 

You will be warmly welcomed, encouraged in your walk with God and we hope that you would want to come again.

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If you have any other questions  or feedback about St James' please use the contact form at the bottom of this page.

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