New experiences can be unsettling: We don’t know what to expect.  We don’t know what to do. 

What’s the off-side rule? I remember going along to the Beveree for my first football match. I was meeting a couple of people there, but even so didn’t want to get there too early and have to wait on my own. Nor did I want to be late and miss the start. I didn’t know the rules or the players’ names, let alone the words of the chants. 

Why did I go back? I was made to feel welcome; people were keen to explain things – to have a bit of banter and get to know me. I picked up some of the basics of the game; I was invited to have a pint.  Over a few months I began to look forward to that bit of escape on a Saturday afternoon. Three years later I’ve even got a season ticket!

New experiences can be good experiences: Many people feel as apprehensive about attending a church service as I did before the football match. It’s quite a normal reaction.  Very often, if we take a chance, we discover that people are ready to make us welcome. Over time we make new friends; find a different sense of “space”; the new becomes a positive routine. 

So, over the next few months we’re going to offer you a simple guide to your local church...  Hopefully it’ll answer some of the most common questions that might cross your mind as you pass All Saints and wonder whether to pop in on a Sunday.

What sort of church is All Saints? It’s pretty central Church of England, neither “high” nor “low”. Our friendly congregation reflects the diversity of the local community.

Who can go? Anybody. You don’t have to be baptised or confirmed. For us, “All” means “all” – everyone is welcome. 

When’s the best time to come? Sunday’s 10 o’clock service has the largest attendance – so lots of other people to watch if you’re not sure what to do! If you want to come to a quieter, more reflective service, then the 8 o’clock might suit you.

What’s the dress code? Some people wear jackets and ties, others jeans and everything in between. The important thing is to feel relaxed and comfortable. 

What are the first steps? You enter up the steps into the church. If you use a wheelchair or have a children’s buggy we have got portable ramps, but we have plans to make the building more accessible in the long term by having a permanent ramp. You’ll be welcomed by one of the regulars, who’ll have a name-badge. They’ll give you an order of service – “the script” – and a hymnbook. You’ll also be given a notice sheet to take home with you. Say hello and take a seat! 

Where do I sit? Pretty much anywhere. The Sunday School children sit at the very front, and there’s a toy area at the back for younger children. Sit where you can see what’s going on.  We don’t have “reserved” seats!

What next?  The Vicar will welcome us all, and directions or page numbers are given throughout. 

Try a new thing: I am really glad that I was brave enough to go to the footie, randomly one Saturday. I’ve discovered a new thing!  We hope that perhaps you’ll try a new thing by coming along to All Saints. 

Make it your own: whether you want peace and space or some support, whether you want to meet new people, whether you have questions about life and faith...you are all very welcome.