What to Expect
Worship is the heart of what we do at Shepherd of the Hills. We gather every Sunday at 10:00 a.m. and occasionally for special services.
Before Worship
When you come in the red double doors just off our parking lot, expect to see some friendly faces and to receive a warm welcome. You will be given an announcement bulletin. If you have children under the age of 3, you may take them downstairs to our fellowship hall and our professionally staffed nursery. There are also activities bags for children as you walk in. When you are ready, find a place where you are comfortable sitting, find a red worship book (they are located near all seating), find the booklet with the order of worship in front of you, and listen to the music as we prepare for worship.
During Worship
The pastor and the worship leaders will start the service at about 10:00 a.m. We are a liturgical church, which means that the service will follow a similar format from week to week. We often begin the service with some kind of responsive reading and singing. At most services, there will be readings from the Bible, music from our choir, and reflections from the pastor for children and adults. Then there will be time for singing and praying.
After the Children’s Message, children under the age of 12 usually leave to attend our Godly Play Montessori-style education program during the sermon. Children return to their families in time for Holy Communion, a simple meal of bread that is broken and wine that is poured out. All are welcome at the communion table. The service concludes with more singing and a blessing.
After Worship
People usually catch up and visit with each other for a time after worship. New visitors are greeted and brought into conversation. Each week a volunteer provides some kind of snack to go with fairly-traded coffee. The children often go downstairs to our play structure while their parents visit. Plenty of laughter, handshakes, and hugs are shared, along with occasional tears.