Here are some things you might like to know before you visit:
- Where should I start? Worship is the heart of what we do as a congregation, so worship is a great place to start! Some people like to join us for worship online before they come in person. (We hope that you will come in person, though, so we can meet you!)
- What is the difference between the worship services?
- Our Sanctuary services are both traditional in style. We don't have screens, so an usher will hand you a paper bulletin, and hymnals are available in the pew pockets. Both Sanctuary services follow the same order of worship. Communion is served every Sunday at 8:30 and on the first Sunday of the month at 11:00. Our Chancel Choir and Organist provide music for both services, along with occasional performances by our Bell Conte Handbell Choir, our Children's Choirs, and Special Musicians.
- Our Encounter service has a modern style of worship, with a more casual feel. We do use screens in this service, although a paper bulletin is also available. Music is provided by our Encounter Band, and Communion is served every week.
- What can I expect for my kids? Children are always welcome in worship!
- A special Children's Time is included in every worship service. Parents are welcome to come forward with their children. Children are encouraged to bring an offering for Heifer International.
- Children's Worship Kits are available in the Narthex outside the Sanctuary.
- A Children's Area with smaller tables and chairs is available in Encounter.
- Loving Nursery Care (birth through preschool) is provided all morning long. The nursery is located one floor below the Sanctuary; an usher or greeter can direct you.
- Children's Sunday school for all ages meets at 9:45.
- And, Children's Chapel is available after Children's Time at the 11:00 service.
- What about tweens and teens? We have Sunday school and Youth Group for 6th through 12th grades. Our students also attend retreats and a week-long mission trip in the summer. Confirmation class (leading to a Profession of Faith and church membership) is done in 8th grade. Contact Meagan Schwarz, our Director of Student Ministries, for more information.
- What do I wear? Please wear whatever you are comfortable wearing. Many of our parishioners favor a casual style of worship, and many prefer to wear their "Sunday best." All styles are welcome.
- Can I take Communion? Yes! United Methodists have a table that is truly open for ALL. We take Communion by intinction: you will be given a piece of bread that you can dip into the cup (we use grape juice). Time is given to kneel at the altar in the Sanctuary or light a candle or add a request to the Prayer Wall in Encounter.
- How can I get connected to a Sunday school class or small group? Please contact Linda Nevitt at ahumc@ahumc.com, and she will direct your question to the right person.