Psalm 69:30
If you're considering visiting us for the first time, this is the service that will give you the best sense of what we're about. Of course, you can also drop by and see the church Monday to Friday from noon to 3 pm, if you'd like to look around, pray, light a candle, or just sit a while. Here's a "HEFC 101" to give you a sense of what you can expect on Sunday morning.
When you arrive in the building you will be greeted by a church volunteer who will welcome you and give you a bulletin, or Order of Service. Sometimes they’re busy with visitors and you may slip by them. If you’re inadvertently missed by the greeters, feel free to sit anywhere you like.
Everyone is welcome to attend our worship service. It doesn't matter if you have no religion, are of another religion, or if you've simply never been to church before. You will be greeted warmly and your privacy will be respected. No one will try to convert you. We’re just happy you came and hope you find some spiritual sustenance with us. We invite you to complete a Visitor’s Card if you would like to connect with one of our ministry team.
Everything you need to know about our Sunday morning service is listed in the bulletin you will receive from one of our greeters. We call this the "Order of Service." It's a play-by-play of everything that will happen during the service.
The offering is an act of worship for Christians. It is a symbol of our belief that everything we have comes from God. It is also an act of generosity. Offerings support the ministry programs at our own church and various programs and throughout the world to help others. Visitors are not expected to participate in the offering, and it is perfectly acceptable for you to let the offering plate pass you by. But you are certainly welcome to contribute. If you'd like a tax receipt for your offering, just include your gift in the envelope and provide us with your mailing address on the outside of the envelope. If you decide to make HEFC your home (and we hope you do!), we hope you will consider regular participation in our offering, and you can choose from many different ways to contribute your time, talents and resources.
We are delighted to welcome children into our worship experience. We offer children programs from September until June, and we welcome children of all ages, from newborns to teenagers. This program is available for all members, adherents and visitors to the church.
Children are invited to attend the first part of our 9:30 am service with their parents. About 15 minutes into the service, the entire congregation shares in a special children's time called "Encountering the Child Within," which includes a carefully crafted tale or lesson related to a scripture reading from that morning. Then, the children leave for Church School in another room.