How To Attend Christian Services
- December 18, 2007
- 316 Views
A co-worker’s Greek Orthodox wedding, your elderly neighbor’s Presbyterian funeral and then there’s that second cousin’s Baptist baptism. Here’s how to handle a variety of services in different denominations.
You Will Need
- Religious tolerance
- Poise in the face of the unknown
- A few bucks
Step 1: Double-check time & location
Double-check the time of the service and the location of the church on the invitation or with someone directly involved with the event.
Search the Internet to see if the church has a website with a “frequently asked questions” section for visitors. You’ll at least find a phone number to call if you have questions.
Step 2: Ascertain dress code
Ascertain the dress code. Some churches hold to traditional “Sunday best,” while others may allow jeans and t-shirts. Remember to be event-appropriate as well, and bear in mind Christian services range from incense and organ music to guitar playing and grape juice.
Don’t assume the church has central heat and air conditioning just because their pastor’s gone wireless.
Step 3: Find out length of service
Find out the length of the service. It could be anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours.
Step 4: Communicate w/ ushers
When you arrive, the church may have ushers. Tell them if you’d feel more comfortable farther back and close to the aisle.
Step 5: Be respectful
Gum chewing, snacking, a ringing cell phone, and audible chatter will likely earn you unholy glares. Be respectful.
Step 6: Don't get self-conscious
On the other hand, don’t get too self-conscious. All the regulars are not staring at you and murmuring to each other. But you can watch them for visual cues on what to do.
Step 7: Look for book or program
Scan the immediate area. There may be a book or a program available to guide you through the service.
Step 8: Look at altar area
Look at the altar area toward the front of the church. This is where the focus will be.
Step 9: Introduce yourself
Many churches ask visitors to introduce themselves. Keep it to your first name and a handshake.
Step 10: Sit, stand, and kneel
Be prepared to sit, stand, and possibly kneel.
If you feel uncomfortable kneeling because it implies belief, you may instead sit quietly.
Step 11: Have cash on hand
Have some cash on hand if you wish to donate to any collection the church may take up during the service.
It is your choice whether or not to contribute a few dollars. Just don’t try to make change from the plate.
Step 12: List for announcements
Listen for specific announcements, particularly regarding Communion—also called the Eucharist or Lord’s Supper—which is the sharing of special bread and wine. Some churches invite everyone to communion; some, only baptized Christians; and others, only their members. If you are invited to partake, the choice is yours.
If it’s not clear whether you’re permitted to receive Communion and you’d like to, ask someone near you or look in the program.
Step 13: Pay attention
Pay attention. The service will likely consist of prayers, scripture readings, a sermon, music, and ritual action, such as burning incense or pouring water on an infant’s head.
Jesus himself never called his followers "Christians"—the word was coined in Antioch, Syria, over four decades after he died.
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Comments (2)
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