As friendly as most churches hope to be, we know it takes some guts to visit a new place for the first time. It can bring up a lot of questions. How should I dress? Will anyone talk to me? Will everyone know what's going on but me? Will my kids like it (and be well-cared for in a safe environment)? Will I have to do anything embarrassing? Will they ask me for money? Is it okay if I don't believe what everyone else believes? This is our attempt to answer some of those questions and hopefully make you feel more at home if you choose to visit.
Each week, many people visit the Vineyard for the very first time. So relax, you're in good company. We try our best to make Saint John Vineyard as welcoming and "user-friendly" as possible for our first-time guests. We dress casually and the atmosphere is informal and family-friendly. If you bring your kids, we don't expect them to sit still or be silent. And whatever your thoughts about God, you are welcome here.
When you arrive, you will be greeted at the door with a warm smile and someone will hand you a copy of "The Loop", a program giving you a brief rundown of what's on the menu. You are free to sit wherever you like.
At 10:45 a.m., our band will begin the gathering by leading us in a few simple songs to God for about 30 minutes. The words to the songs are projected on a screen, so you can sing along (if you want). Some people like to to stand, others sit. Do whatever is most comfortable for you.
After the music, we'll take an offering and plug a few events. As a guest, please don't feel any pressure to give. The offering is a way for our regulars to support the mission and vision of the church and to give back to God a portion of what He has given us. Following the announcements, the children (infants to grade 5) are free to go to their classroom environments with our trained volunteers for age-appropriate programming, while the adults enjoy a fresh cup of coffee during the break.
Next, someone will speak from the Bible for 25-30 minutes. We try hard to make our messages relevant, inspiring, encouraging and practical to those who are listening. But don't just take our word for it, listen before you visit. At the end of the message, the person speaking will often pray and give an invitation for people to receive prayer from our prayer team if they want it.
Following the message, parents can pick up their children from their classroom. All in all, our gathering runs about an hour and twenty minutes. We're not in a hurry to leave though, so feel free to stay awhile to listen to the music, have someone pray with you, or to meet some new friends.
We hope to see you soon!
