It’s often daunting to go to a new church, or to attend church for the first time (or first time in a long time). Below is a bit of information about our services as well as some frequently asked questions so that you have a good idea of what to expect on a Sunday.
The best way to get to know us is to visit us and see for yourself
Where do I go?
We meet at Athlone Primary School. Our service is in the main hall and our kids ministry is in some of the school classrooms.
What time do I arrive?
Our service starts at 15h30pm but please feel free to arrive from 15h00 to meet the team and enjoy a cup of coffee / tea. There is a welcomer to receive you and show you where to go.
What do I wear?
We’re not hung up on any specific clothing. We believe Jesus meets us where we are at so we don’t need to put on a show for him… so if you’d like to dress formally or casually you are most welcome to do so.
Where do I sit?
There is no allocated seating so sit where you’re comfortable.
Does it cost anything?
No at all! You are our guest and not expected to contribute. We also don’t pass a collection bowl/plate around as it makes things unnecessarily awkward. Those who have committed to CCC as their church family support the work and contribute financially. You can read up more about why/how to give by clicking here.
Do I have to do anything?
No, you won’t be asked to say or do anything in the service… although we might as a church say a creed or the Lord’s Prayer from time to time. We might just ask you to fill in a welcome card, with your name, email address and phone number. This is purely just to send you more information about what goes on at CCC (we will not spam you). You don’t have to fill it out – but we’d love to welcome you properly, and get your feedback about church. If you don’t feel like singing or praying during the service – you’re welcome just to sit in and listen.
What about my kids?
We are a family-friendly church, and your kids are most welcome. Now that we have a bigger venue with a few more rooms we are able to offer a kids programme for 18months – 4year, Grade RR – Grade 2, Grade 3-4 and Grade 5-7. For babies who get a little niggly during the service you are welcome to take them to our cry room, which is a classroom across the quad. There is a screen for feeding and a speaker so that you don’t miss out on the service.
What actually happens during a service?
Our services follow a similar structure every week – though we might swop some of the elements around if we feel it appropriate. But on any given Sunday you should expect to see the following:
What kind of songs do you sing?
Currently we are singing 4 songs during a service. Our songs are mostly modern, but we’ll pull out a hymn every now and then if appropriate. We’re less worried about who the artist/publisher is than about the content of the song. We want to sing songs that bring across truth in their lyrics, helping us not only to know more about Jesus and what he’s done but to love him more because of it. You’re welcome to sit/stand/raise your hands/tap your feet or just read the words while we sing.
What kind of sermons can I expect?
Our preachers preach from the Bible. What we mean by this is that we will read a passage and then have it explained and applied. We will usually work through books of the Bible, looking at a small section of it every week. From time to time we will deviate from this and listen to what the Bible has to say about a particular topic/issue or concept.
