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A "first time" visitor might wonder if...? It can be just a bit unsettling when you think about visiting a new church. Many questions can cross your mind about what we do, where to go, and what to say. We have tried to list some of the questions that visitors have asked over the years so that you will be completely comfortable on your first visit. By eliminating the "unknowns" beforehand, our prayer is that you will come worship with us and experience God's love.
Should I visit just the worship service or perhaps include Sunday School?
It is completely up to you, but you would be most comfortable on "day one" should you include Sunday School. Besides, you can really get to know us better in a small group setting.We have an active and effective Sunday School for children and youth and look forward to welcoming your children. Sunday school classes are held from 9:45 AM to 10:45 AM. Children are also welcome to join us down front during the group services for the Children's Sermon.What about my children not yet in Kindergarten or above?
Nursery care is avfailable in the nursery from 8 AM to 12 PM for infants and toddlers up to age three.May I meet the pastor?
The pastor will be available by the door as you exit the traditional service. Please introduce yourself and let him know you are a visitor. Please also feel free to complete the name and address portion for visitors on our attendance pads as they are passed around during the service.What is the fellowship dinner?
New visitors are invited to join us on Wednesdays for our fellowship dinner. This is a time for members, new members, visitors, and their families to share a meal downstairs in our Christian Life Center. If you are a visitor, we welcome you to come dine with us for free your first time. Dinner is served from 5:30 to 6:15 PM.How would I find my way around?
First you must find our church. We are located at 1414 Walnut. If you come through Simpson Park and exit the park to the south, our church is on the right. Or from Washington Street, you can turn west on Bryan Street, then right on Walnut, and our church will be on the left. Look for our brick sign with the big bell (See Map). If you arrive late for worship, it isn't a problem. The ushers will help you find a seat at a convenient time.What should I wear to church?
There is no right way to dress at Chillicothe United Methodist Church. Some people wear their Sunday best, and others dress casually. Our contemporary service is generally acknowledged to be more casual in mood and form. It is not unusual to see people in jeans, tee shirts, and sandals during the summer. Wear whatever makes you comfortable.Are there customs which might be strange to me?
We hope that nothing you experience at Chillicothe UMC will ever make you uncomfortable, but the "unknown" can make anyone a little uneasy. You might ask, "Do they sing a lot?" We sure do! Methodists love to sing. "Do they recite memorized passages?" Not really, but you might think so because many members are so familiar with our regular service.How will I know what to do next?
Everything that happens in a worship service is printed in the Sunday bulletin that everyone receives as they enter. All page numbers are given for any song or passwage used during a worship service. In the contemporary service, the words to songs are projected onto the ceiling screens at the front of the CLC on either side. We just want you to be comfortable, and most importantly, we just want to meet you.What if they serve communion?
We practice open communion. What this means for you is that it is not restricted by membership or age. All who desire to receive the sacrament may do so. We provide communion on the first Sunday of every month. We do encourage you, however, to examine what the bible says about communion in I Corinthians 11:23-33 before you partake of the bread and the cup.Where can I park?
There are parking spaces all around our church building. Handicap parking is available at the front and the rear of the church and is designated by blue stripes and traditional markingsIf you discover only one thing about Chillicothe United Methodist Church, it will probably be the friendly nature of all who attend here. During worship, ushers are always available in the entry area (called the narthex) to guide you and answer your question. During the contemporary service downstairs, ushers are available as you enter the CLC. They can answer any questions you have as you arrive.