If you have never been to church before it is natural to wonder what will happen. The outside of church can look very different - it is the people inside that matters.

Churches are full of ordinary people from a range of backgrounds. Some work in a variety of jobs including education and sales, others are retired, some are unemployed - it doesn't matter to God.

Many churches have made every effort to make their building attractive and friendly although often they have limited funds for this type of work. What matters most is the welcome they offer to you.

You are a Guest in church and they want you to feel comfortable.

Don't worry - no one will be concerned or saying anything if you get some things wrong. Even people who often attend church get things wrong..

In most churches the person leading will always say what happens next. If it is something new then it will be explained in detail - otherwise just follow the lead of the people around you. Most of the time it is very easy to understand what is happening.

Some churches are formal and expect you to wear a suit or smart clothes. This does not happen as often as it once did so our advice is until you see what other people are wearing you should aim for smart and tidy. However other churches are quite informal and may wear jeans and T shirts. In the 21st Century many people wear the same type of clothes to work as they do in their spare time.

Most churches will welcome you and are not bothered how you look. You can have long hair, short hair or no hair. You can be tall or short, fat or thin. You can have piercings or makeup. Some people may have a physical disability. None of it matters. However, if the first church you go to doesn't seem to be a place where you will easily fit in then please don't give up - do try a different church next week..

Church services are a time to meet together to worship and praise God. As such we ask that visitors respect this and do not call things out or be disruptive. There will be plenty of opportunity to ask questions and discuss Christian Beliefs at the end of the service with the church leaders.

A typical modern service

Community singing - we use a projector to put the words on to a screen so that we can all see the words. Note - you do not have to sing.

A short time for events happening in the church or sharing what has happened to us during the last week. Don't worry you do not have to join in.

Teaching from the Bible - this will be led by someone from the church or a Christian from another church. This can last approximately 20 to 35 minutes.

After the service we invite you to stay for a light lunch. (no charge and no obligation).

We do take up an offering - but this is a time when our regular church members can give to God. You are our guest and we do not ask you to give anything. When the basket comes along your row please just pass it on.