First Time Visitors
Welcome!
Here are some answers to common questions.
How long is the Sunday morning service? The HCC worship service starts at 10:00 a.m. The service is typically 60 minutes in length. This is followed by a time to connect with others, say “hello” to one of the pastors, and often times enjoy refreshments and/or coffee.
Will I be singled out as a “visitor”? HCC does not ask visitors to stand or introduce themselves. Visitors frequently blend in with regular attenders. If you would like, you can write your name on a name-tag (provided on a table as you enter the building), but this is always optional for regular attenders and guests who choose to wear them.
Are children welcome? Absolutely!!! “Let the little children come, and do not hinder them.” In the kids corner of the lobby, by the kids tables, we set out resources for kids to use during worship. We also offered three age group classes that kids are welcome to attend during the second half of morning worship. You can see more details on that here.
What are the options for infants and toddlers? We offer nursery care for the full duration of Sunday mornings. It is staffed by our trained, screened adult nursery coordinator and volunteers.
How about older children? The hope is that children become more and more comfortable in worship as they develop through the stages of childhood, adolescence, and into adulthood. Worship typically includes a “Children’s Moment,” where kids are invited to come forward to learn something about the theme of the day as it relates to their lives. Following this time, children are invited to gather in one of our classrooms for kids activities and lessons. Click here for more information about Sunday morning children’s ministry.
What to wear? Dress as you feel comfortable. People typically dress up more than they would on a Saturday morning around the house, but this means different things to different people. You will find everything from casual (shorts and blue jeans) to business casual (dresses and button-up shirts).
What happens in worship? The congregation sings contemporary songs of praise as well as enduring songs/hymns from the past led by our praise team. Often the choir sings, and sometimes you will hear from the bell choir or others offering special music. (To learn more about our music ministry click here.) Each Sunday we listen to Scripture and hear a thoughtfully communicated message related to our lives based on the reading of the day; we learn of things happening in the life of the church; and we leave encouraged by the beauty of our faith, ready to face the challenges of the coming week. We also collect an offering, experience prayer, and on the first Sunday of each month celebrate the Lord’s Supper as a sign of God’s grace available to all.
One more thing… If you are concerned about “standing out” or not “fitting in,” no worries! HCC likes people who “stand out” and don’t “fit in.” Our world is often fragmented based on age, gender, race, marital status, politics, and social status, but the church is one place where people of different backgrounds come together based on their shared humanity. If you don’t see others who look like you, that’s great, but most likely, if you stick around for a while and say ‘hello’ to a few folks, you’re almost guaranteed to find some people who share your common values and interests.