What to Expect

To Be Welcomed

The moment you walk in the front door of Edwards Church expect to be greeted warmly – by a couple, a young family, an individual, or a member of the choir.

That welcome will continue was you step into the sanctuary when the head usher gives you possibly the warmest handshake you’ve ever received and offers you a bulletin for the day’s service. The ministers stand at the back of the sanctuary to welcome and chat with folks coming in to worship. There are ample opportunities to feel the spirit of Edwards Church before you even sit down in a pew.

To Come as You Are

You are encouraged to come as you are and participate as fully in our worship as you feel comfortable. We are an open and affirming congregation, welcoming everyone regardless of ethnic background, economic circumstance, sexual orientation, family configuration, or difference in ability. You will be welcomed here.

Worship begins Sundays at 10:00 a.m. with music to help you get centered in the sanctuary with those around you.

To Participate as You Are Comfortable

After a Welcome from the minister and some brief announcements, you’ll be invited to Pass the Peace by shaking hands with or saying hello to those around you. The liturgy features lay readers leading us in unison prayer and scripture readings; a children’s sermon for youth who gather on the chancel steps at the front of the sanctuary; preaching; being led in prayer; singing hymns; offering our financial gifts; listening to choir anthems; and enjoying organ and piano music. The service lasts about an hour.

Some Sundays we may baptize an infant or an adult; receive new members; bless prayer shawls; bless pets – or, even backpacks before the first day of school. We celebrate communion the first Sunday of each month. You are welcome to join in or pass as you wish.

To Have Your Children Cared For

During the 10AM service, there is childcare available for children ages four and under in our large nursery rooms downstairs staffed with two trained childcare providers. Children in grades K-6 begin church in the Sanctuary with their parents. After the children’s talk on the chancel steps, they will go to the classrooms downstairs for church school, taught by members of the congregation – two teachers per class.

To Gather in Fellowship

After each worship service, members and visitors gather in the social hall downstairs for a time of fellowship and refreshment. It is a wonderful time to greet other members and make some new friends over coffee, light snacks, and juice for the children.