First Visit

It’s not easy visiting a new church for the first time. Sometimes you feel like a stranger in a strange land. Will the people be unfriendly? Will the people be too friendly? Will I be put on the spot? Will it be easy to leave if I don’t enjoy it? Will my kids enjoy it? How should I dress? What if I don’t believe what they believe? Here’s a brief overview of what to expect.

We want to make your first time at the Vineyard an enjoyable and meaningful experience. We’ve worked hard to create a warm welcome for everyone, especially those who have never been to church before.

At the front doors there will be some friendly people (we call them “hosts”) to say hello, answer any questions you have, and show you around if you’d like. Whether you dress “business casual” or throwing on that old tshirt and jeans, all are welcome to come as they are. Some people arrive early and catch up with each other. Some people get here right on time. Some are a few minutes late.

We’re kid-friendly here. We believe they matter to God and you will find our NextGenKidz Pastor, Penny and a few of her volunteers waiting to welcome your children just inside the lobby. If you have children, we have programs for infancy through high school that your family will love! You can check your younger children into the nursery before the service, while children in preschool – 5th grades will join you in the sanctuary for the first 30 minutes of worship. Click for more info about our kids and youth programs.

At the beginning of our service, we enjoy singing songs together that are led by our worship team. Most people sing along to the words projected on the wall, but others sit and reflect. After that, we send our children off to their classroom while our Lead Pastor or another speaker, offers a message that is intended to help you follow Jesus when you leave the gathering. If you would like to hear some of our past sermons and messages, click here. The service ends with an additional worship song and an opportunity to receive prayer from our prayer team.

Following worship, please stop by the welcome center in the lobby and let us know you are on your first visit. We have a small welcome gift we want to give you.

It can be daunting looking for a new church or coming to a church for your first time. We understand and we are glad you’re here checking us out!