If you are new to the Church then it can be a little bit daunting at first while you find your feet, however, the church is here for everyone and you are very welcome.

A Warm Welcome

When you come to the Church for the first time on a Sunday, the chances are that you will be greeted at the front door by our Welcomers. Feel free to ask them any questions you may have. They will ask your name, take a few details and give you a name sticker and a pew slip. The pew slip is like a mini Church newsletter and also contains a summary of the sermon. When you have visited the Church a few times you can also choose to order a pin-on or magnetic name badge from the Welcomers.

Introductions

In the early part of the service the Welcomers will publicly introduce you to the rest of the congregation from the front of the church. The people of the congregation are like a large family and will be genuinely happy to see you and know who you are so that they can chat to you during fellowship after the service.

Holy Communion

During the service you will be invited to take part in the Holy Communion, the taking of bread and wine to commemorate the Last Supper. You can either kneel or stand at the altar and hold out your hands to receive bread from the Priest. Many people choose to cross their hands with the top palm open. For children, the priest will give a sticker instead of bread. A liturgical assistant will then bring a cup of wine. You may either take a sip directly from the cup or dip your bread into the wine and then eat it.

“Shalom”

After the Communion you will be invited to share the peace by greeting those around you with the word “shalom” at the contemporary service, or “peace be with you” at a traditional service. The offertory plate will then be passed around and you can choose to make an offering of money. The envelopes for money offerings can be ordered from the welcomers.

After The Service

After the service at St Marys there is a gathering in the church hall for fellowship, food, tea and coffee. Feel free to chat and meet a few new people. If you are at all unsure ask one of the Welcomers to introduce you to members of the Church family that you might get along well with.

Welcome Dinner

The Church holds a special welcome dinner once a month for new members of the Church family. Tell the Welcomers if you would like to come along. At the welcome dinner you will meet the Priest and his wife, members of the Church family, and others who are new to the Church.