Is there a Dress Code?
We do not have a dress code. A few people like to wear suits, others take a more casual approach. So feel free to dress in whatever way makes you feel comfortable.

I'm not a Christian - am I welcome?
Yes! Our church is open to everyone because we believe that the good news of Jesus is for everyone. We would love to have the opportunity to help you discover more about God and develop your own personal relationship with Him.

What time should I arrive?
We aim to start our services at the advertised time, but you should allow yourself time to find somewhere to park.

Where can I sit?
You are free to sit where you are most comfortable. There's no reserved or VIP seating, so as long as no one else is already sitting on the seat, you're welcome to sit there!

Can I bring children?
Your children are welcome to come with you, church is for people of all ages and stages.

At Ashingdon there is usually a children's talk as part of the service at around 10.45am and this is followed by specific activities for children and teenagers from 11.00am. Children aged 4-11 may join our eKids activities, or if they are aged 12-15 they can join our our teen Impact bible class. (The children leave the Service to have their own meeting in the rear of our Church building. They are fully supervised and will return at the end of the Service). Of course you may keep them with you if that is your preference.

At Rayleigh, Junior church begins at 11am and is held in the rear hall of our Rayleigh Church and provides age appropriate teaching and activities.

We are not currently holding church services or activities in our Southend building.

Do I need to bring any money?
During the service an offering will be taken. We do not expect visitors to contribute. There is no cost for the refreshments served after the Service.

What if I can't hear very well?
We have a loop system for people who use hearing aids.

What happens during a service?
The service usually starts by singing a number of songs, with the words displayed on a screen at the front.

We often stand up to sing, but you can remain seated if you wish. You may notice some people like to raise their hands while they sing, this is simply their way of worshiping.

This is often followed by a children's talk.

Sometimes we have a time of open-prayer. This gives people the chance to pray out loud and share any thoughts or insights they may have. Don't worry, you will not be asked or expected to do this. You may hear some people 'speak in tongues' do not be alarmed, usually an interpretation of these words will be given.

We regularly have Communion during the Morning Service. You do not have to be baptised or a member of the church to participate, as we believe this for all those who have accepted Jesus as their Saviour. If you are unsure please feel free to let the bread and juice pass by without any embarrassment.

One of our Pastors or a Guest Speaker will then preach. They will use a modern English translation of the Bible as the basis for their sermon.

The Service usually ends with a song and a closing prayer.

A typical service is a maximum of 90 minutes. Family Services and Cafe Church style services tend to be shorter. You are also welcome to join us for refreshments after the service.

If the month contains five Sundays then the fifth Sunday is designated as a Healing and Wholeness day, when our services will include an opportunity for people to receive prayer for physical or emotional healing.

What participation is required?
We want you to feel welcome to come and listen in, without fear of being asked to do anything you're uncomfortable with. You can leave whenever you like, and while you can remain as anonymous as you want to be, we encourage you to introduce yourself to us - we'd love to meet you.