Welcome

Who is welcome in worship at Christ Presbyterian Church?

Everyone is welcome in worship. God created each one of us, in God’s image. We gather in a spirit of humility, love, learning and grace. We are imperfect, choosing to learn from and imitate Jesus, and would love for you to join us.

What can I expect when I come to worship at CPC?

Each week we gather in the Spirit, through Christ, for the glory of God. We sing songs, hear scripture and a sermon, and experience other creative elements that represent the breadth of God’s love and grace. Sometimes we light candles, share prayer concerns or God sightings, or spend time in silent reflection.

Occasionally (quarterly or so), we hold a combined worship service at 10:00am. During these services, there is nursery care for children from birth to age 4. We work hard to design these services in a way that keeps children 5+ engaged throughout the morning.

Is there a dress code? Should I dress up?

There is no dress code, please come as you are, in whatever way feels comfortable for you to worship together with us. Throughout the morning you will see folks in shorts or jeans and t‑shirts as well as suits and ties.

Can kids be in worship?

Yes! Kids of any age are always welcome in worship. As you enter the sanctuary, there are bags hanging to the right with crayons, paper and small activities you can bring back to your seat. Additionally, there are quiet, table-activities available in the back area of the sanctuary, also called the Emmaus Room. This space is open to the sanctuary and allows families to be together in worship even when sitting in a row of chairs isn’t manageable.

See below for what is offered for Kids Ministry at CPC.

Is there Nursery care for babies and toddlers?

We are pleased to offer nursery care for children from birth to age 4ish. Our nursery staff is trained in early childhood care and development and love to welcome the little ones into our nursery space. During worship, kids will be invited to participate in guided open play, a group activity, and a nut-free snack, all supervised by our staff. The nursery is located on the second floor, to the left of the sanctuary.

What’s available for the kids of various ages?

Nursery is available for children ages birth through 4ish. About ten minutes into each worship service there’s a Children’s Sermon where kids are invited to the front of the church for a short kid-friendly lesson. Following the Children’s Sermon, kids can either return to the adults they came to church with or go downstairs with Kids’ Ministry leader, Cindy Melrose, for Kids’ Ministry. Kids’ Ministry consists of a large group activity and bible story introduction and then a small group lesson interacting with the bible story. We will close with time to play either inside or outside in Castlescape (outdoor play area), depending on the weather.

What accommodations are available for me/​my family if we live with disabilities?

• There is full elevator access in the building and the sanctuary at CPC is on the second floor. When you come in through the main entrance, the elevator is past the stairs to the left.

• The sanctuary has chairs and not pews, so accommodating wheelchairs, walkers or other durable medical equipment is seamless.

• Each bathroom is handicap accessible with large stalls and grab bars to aid with mobility challenges.

• In the sanctuary we have a t‑coil that allows a hearing aid or cochlear implant users to receive wireless audio transmissions through the assistive listening system.

What time is worship?

Our Contemporary Worship Service begins at 9am (one hour) and our Classical Worship Service begins at 11am (one hour).

What do I need to know about communion?

At CPC, we offer open communion on the first Sunday of each month and all are welcome who would like to participate in this symbol of remembrance of Jesus’ invitation to us. All of the bread offered is gluten free and we use nonalcoholic grape juice. Folks are invited to come forward to receive communion as they are able. Communion servers will also bring the elements to your seat if coming forward is not possible.

Where do we park? Where do we come in?

The main entrance is in the center of the building facing Gorham Street and the parking lot surrounds the building. With welcome banners flocking either side, this entrance is fully accessible.

Will someone unexpectedly bring attention to me in worship?

We don’t embarrass visitors by calling them out or having them stand. During the service we do something we call Passing the Peace of Christ. Folks take a moment to extend peace to one another, often with an exchange similar to ​“peace be with you / and also with you”. When you arrive we have name tag stickers in three colors to help guide your interactions in the most comfortable way possible. A green name tag says you are open to hugs and handshakes, a yellow means fist or elbow bumps are welcome and a red name tag signals that you prefer to not be touched. We do hope you’ll take time to get to know a few others around you before or after worship.

Who can I contact ahead of coming, in case I have a special concern?

We would love to answer any questions you may have or address any needs ahead of time to help you feel more comfortable and fully welcomed at Christ Presbyterian Church. The church office is open during the week from 9am-2pm, Monday — Thursday. Give us a call at 608.257.4845 or send us an email.

Should I wear a mask?

It’s completely up to you. We invite those with symptoms or known exposure to protect themselves and others by wearing masks or isolating as necessary. Masks and hand sanitizer are available throughout the building.