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" before hand, our prayer is that you will come worship with us and experience God's love.
Should I visit just a worship service, or perhaps include Sunday School?
Everyone is welcome at Sunday School, as well as our Worship Services. We have many Sunday Schools from which to choose, and you can read about them at this site. We have a custom that visitors are actually encouraged to visit several classes, to "shop around" first, so as to find the one that best fits their needs and interests. Please see the map of our church to help you locate the class you want to visit. 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.
What about my children not yet in kindergarten or above?
A nursery is available during Sunday School and all 3 worship services for your convenience. Please see "younger children" on this site for room locations during Sunday School for all ages of children. Children's Worship is available during the second worship service for children in 3K through 4th grade. Children's Worship begins in the 10:30am Worship service located in the sanctuary, and then moves to a separate location after the Children's Moments. 3 year olds will be lead to Children's church in the 3K Sunday School classroom and 4K through 4th grade will be lead into the Fields Center for Children's Worship. You may pick up your children following the 10:30 worship service in either the Fields Center or 3K Children's room.
How would I find my way around?
First, you must find our church. We are on Second Loop Road in Florence at the intersection of Marsh Avenue and Second Loop Road (See City Map). Parking, convenient to all of our facilities, is available on both sides of the church. You can ask anyone you see for directions, for if you discover only one thing about Highland Park, it will probably be the friendly nature of all who attend here. A map is available to familarize you with the building if you like to strike out on your own. During Worship, ushers are always available in the Narthex to guide you and answer your questions. If you arrive late for Worship, it isn't a problem. The ushers will help you find a seat at a convenient time.
Are there customs in worship that might be strange to me?
We hope that nothing you experience at Highland Park 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.
Everything that happens in the worship service is printed in the Order of Worship that everyone receives as they enter. All page numbers are given for any song or passage used during the service.
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.
