Frequently asked questions

What should I wear?

It’s up to you! We’re a diverse congregation and so while some people dress up in their Sunday best, others opt for jeans and casual wear. Wear what feels comfortable to you. During summer, though, we do recommend a light sweater as the air conditioning can make the Sanctuary a little chilly! 

Where should my children go during the service?

Children are always welcome in the service but we do offer childcare for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers via our Youth Religious Education programs. YRE classes are offered for children in kindergarten through high school and these are what most of our youth prefer! The Narthex (foyer) area is also available for families to sit and enjoy the service with access to toys, rocking chairs, and walking spaces. 

Where are the restrooms?

 There are restrooms available throughout the Neighborhood campus. In the main Sanctuary off the foyer, there are gender-inclusive restrooms as well as changing tables. The programs building on the north side of our campus has wheelchair-accessible restrooms and the Neighborhood House has a family-style restroom available upon request.

What will happen when I first arrive?

 As you walk towards the Sanctuary, our Welcome Committee volunteers will greet you, answer any of your questions, and invite you to get a nametag. You will also be invited to fill out a visitor card.  This card will help the church to better understand who is visiting, what they’re looking for, and if you would like us to follow up with news of church events and activities. The Welcome Table also has information about church programs, membership, stewardship, and church events. Stop by after the service to learn more!

What happens during the service?

 Inside the foyer, ushers will hand you a hymnal, order of service, and weekly bulletin. Sit wherever you’d like!  Our services last about an hour and include opening words, music from our choir, hymn singing, an offering, and a sermon. You can stand if you’d like during the songs but it’s certainly not required! After the service, if you follow the congregation out the main door, Rev. Lissa will be there to greet you as well. 

What about after the service?

This is when we invite you to join us for coffee and refreshments on our patio! This is a great time to meet new people, learn more about social justice programs, pick up program flyers, and learn about upcoming events and activities. Don’t forget to stop by the Welcome Table to learn more about the Church, sign up for the newsletter, and much more!

Logistics and Accessibility Issues

Neighborhood Church prides itself on being an inclusive and welcoming community. In an effort to support this mission, we offer the following resources to members and guests on Sunday mornings:

MOBILITY

Accessible/ handicap spaces are located at the front of the church, including special “Handicap Parking on Sundays” spots. 

A portable ramp is available to assist people to the pulpit area at the front of the Sanctuary- you’ll need to notify us in advance if you’d like to have this available for the service on Sunday. 

Wheelchairs can be requested at the Welcome Table and used during the service.

Wheelchair accessible restrooms are available in the programs building to the north of the Sanctuary. 

WORSHIP

Assisted listening devices can be picked up at the Welcome Table.

Large print hymnals are with the ushers inside the Narthex (foyer) directly outside of the Sanctuary.

We have space available in the Narthex so you can move around with a smile child while still listening to the service.

Sermon podcasts are available here.

Priority seating at the front of the sanctuary is available upon request.

RELAXATION

The Meditation Garden is a calm, quiet place located between the program buildings at the back of the church for those who need it.

The Labyrinth is another quiet space in the Courtyard that is wheelchair accessible.

EDUCATION

A Regulation Box in each classroom is filled with items to occupy children who need it.

Sensory-based strategies in the classrooms accommodate all developmental needs.

Teachers are trained to have an attitude of acceptance and accommodation towards all youth.

Wheelchair accessible classrooms make YRE classes open to all.

ASSISTANCE

The following resources are available and reserved for pledging members of Neighborhood Church:

Assistance and resources for people dealing with difficult emotional circumstances.

Meals, rides, errands, etc. for members who are frail, ill or who have a transitional life event.