Going to Church
You do not need to be a Christian, know the prayers or understand what happens before visiting a church.
Most churches welcome visitors who are curious, unsure or returning after a long absence. You may sit quietly and take part only where you feel comfortable.
Finding a church
Look at local church websites for service times and a short description of each service. A main Sunday service is often the easiest place to begin, but a quieter weekday service may suit you better.
Churches can be Anglican, Catholic, Orthodox, Methodist, Baptist, Pentecostal or part of another tradition. You do not need to understand every difference before visiting.
What to wear
Ordinary clean clothes are suitable in most churches. Some congregations dress formally and others casually, but visitors are rarely expected to dress in a particular way.
When you arrive
You can usually enter without announcing yourself and sit wherever you wish. Someone may greet you or offer a service sheet, hymn book or notice sheet.
Arriving five or ten minutes early can make it easier to settle. Sitting near the back may feel more comfortable if you are unsure what will happen.
During the service
A service may include Bible readings, prayers, singing, a sermon or talk, silence and a blessing. Some churches follow a printed order; others explain each part as they go.
You do not have to sing, pray aloud, kneel or say words you do not believe. It is acceptable to listen and observe.
Communion
Some services include bread and wine, called Communion, the Eucharist, the Lord’s Supper or Mass.
Churches differ over who may receive it. If you are unsure, remain seated or follow the instructions given. In some churches you may go forward for a blessing instead.
Children, money and leaving
Children are normally welcome, and many churches provide activities for them. Noise from children is expected.
A collection may be taken, but visitors are not normally expected to give money. You may also leave at any time if you feel uncomfortable or need to go.
Afterwards
There may be tea, coffee or conversation. You can stay, introduce yourself briefly or leave quietly. You are not required to explain your beliefs or make any commitment.
One visit may not tell you everything about a church. If it felt safe and welcoming, you might return once or twice before deciding whether it could become a place where you worship regularly.
What a healthy church should be like
A healthy church should welcome without pressure, treat questions honestly, take safeguarding seriously and be accountable in its leadership.
It should point people towards Jesus rather than demanding personal loyalty to a particular leader.
If you want to contact someone first
You could write:
“Hello. I have not attended church before, but I am interested in visiting. Would your next Sunday service be suitable for someone completely new?”