What to Expect

What to Expect

We welcome all people to join us in worship and in the full life of the church community. From the moment you walk through our doors or join us at an event around Halifax, we hope you feel a sense of belonging among us—belonging to God and belonging to the FBCH community.

We know that visiting a church can be intimidating. You might have questions like: Where do I go? Will I stand out? If you have never been to church or haven’t been for a long time, you might wonder why we worship like we do or if you have to know anything before you come (guess what, you don’t!).

Sanctuary entrance along Oxford Street

What is a typical worship service like?

Sunday worship services begin at 10:30am. Music is an important part of our worship. We sing hymns, both ancient and modern, and are led in reflection by pipe organ and choir. Each week, members of the congregation read Scriptures aloud and one of our ministers, usually our Senior Minister, preaches a sermon based on a table of Bible readings called the Narrative Lectionary. Deacons and others from the church community lead us in prayer for one another and the world. On the first Sunday of each month, we share Communion together (all are welcome to partake).

Where are the church entrances?

On Sunday morning, the main entrance leading to the Sanctuary is alongside Oxford Street. The entrance is accessible.

During the week, whether coming to visit the church office or attending an event, enter on the side of the church at the bottom of the parking lot. You’ll see a buzzer—if the door is locked, ring us and someone will let you in. There is an elevator just inside this door.

Weekday entrance and elevator entrance, at bottom of parking lot

What should I wear?

Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable. On Sundays, some will arrive in suits and dresses, others in shorts and t-shirts (yes, even some of our Deacons, ushers, and Scripture readers dress casually when leading worship—so really, come as you are).

What do you have for children and youth?

We love hearing the sounds of children in worship!  At the back of the sanctuary you’ll find a small table with some colouring pages and materials. Early in the service, there is a children’s story time when all children, youth, and the young at heart are invited to the chancel steps. Following the children’s story, school aged children are invited to Godly Play (read more about Godly Play).  Our younger children are welcome to our Crèche.

Our Crèche (nursery) is staffed by a professional child care worker for infants through pre-primary. All those who work with our children and youth have completed background checks and follow our Plan to Protect Policy.

Children and youth are also welcome to stay for the entirety of worship. Indeed, we encourage children and youth to be leaders in worship—whether reading Scripture, leading prayers, or lighting our Christ candle.

 

We are a place of belonging!

First Baptist Church is a diverse community, bringing together people of many different backgrounds, ages and interests. Some choose to be involved only on Sunday mornings; others participate in groups for forming faith, creating music, and doing justice. Whatever your desired level of involvement, we invite you to talk to members of our community and our ministers, to browse the pages of this website, even to subscribe to our weekly email newsletter so you know what’s happening. We want you to feel like you belong, because you do.