What to Expect

What to expect on your first Sunday at WVUC?

Even though we find WVUC a friendly and faith-filled place, we understand that you may be a little nervous on your first visit to church. If you are a single, you may wonder who will sit beside you and whether anyone will speak to you. If you are coming with children, you may be curious to know what programs will be offered. If you have been away from church for a while or have never set foot inside a worship space before, please know that we work really hard at making you feel at home.

When you arrive there is lots of parking around the church and in our large parking lot behind the church building. All the doors to the church are open on a Sunday morning and when you enter simply look for the sign that says Sanctuary (or follow the crowd!). At the entrance to the Sanctuary, you will be greeted by an usher wishing you a “Good morning,” offering you a warm smile and handshake and providing you with an “Order of Service” bulletin that highlights the activities of the morning as well as other programs taking place throughout the month in this busy 7 day a week church. You are welcome to sit wherever you like in the sanctuary (don’t worry there are no reserved pews!). Before the service begins, Gerry, our Minister of Music, will play some reflective pieces on either the piano or organ. At 10 am, the first hymn begins (check your Order of Service for the number) and the Hymnbooks with music are provided in the pew. The choir enters from the back, walking down the centre aisle, and Rev. Laura and Rev. Ross follow in behind.

For the next hour or so the service unfolds with a time especially for the children called Kingdom Kids where they hear a faith story from Rev. Laura and sing a song with Rev. Ross on guitar. And that pesky Calvin the Church Mouse usually makes an appearance. After this time the children leave the Sanctuary with their leaders and programs are provided for all ages. You can meet your children following the service in the Sunday School rooms. After the children leave, the choir offers selections of music, a Scripture story is read and Rev. Ross shares a reflection on the intersection of faith and life known as the sermon. Following the sermon, collection plates are passed around and members contribute financially to the life and work of the church in the community. Some of the offering goes to fund West Vancouver United Church and some of it goes to support Mission projects across Canada and around the world. Feel free to give whatever you can to support the church’s mission. No one will be looking over your shoulder to see what you put in the plate!

After the service the ministers usually greet people on their way out of the worship space. Coffee and tea are provided in the church hall for those able to stay. You would be most welcome to join us!

We look forward to seeing you this Sunday at 10 am and exploring together our common meaning and purpose as people of faith in this time and place.