What to expect on Sunday at the Presbyterian Church of Wilmington.

Sunday morning worship is a time to reconnect with God and our church family in an environment that feels like coming home.

Where do I go? The worship gathering is in our sanctuary. Just inside the main doors there will be greeters to welcome you and answer any questions you might have. This space is called the narthex.

What should I wear? People wear comfortable clothing – anything from jeans and a t-shirt to dresses and suits.

Do I have to say anything or be recognized? Service begins at 10:00am with announcements. In each pew (row of seats) there will be a blue visitor form. Complete the form if you would like to receive information on a weekly basis about church activities and place it in the offering plate at the back of the sanctuary. Introverts have no fear: you won’t be asked to stand up or introduce yourself during the service, but you can count on our friendly extroverts to say hello before or after the gathering!

What happens in the service? The worship begins with music while an acolyte lights the candles on the communion table to represent Jesus Christ’s presence with us. The service follows a liturgy of hymns, scripture, sermon and prayer. The choir sings September – May and the bell choir plays on select Sundays during the year.

What about my young children? Young children are invited forward for the children’s message during the service. There is a staffed nursery available for those who want their babies and toddlers to have a safe space to play or rest. Our children sometimes make noise, have to get up to attend to needs and squirm! It is okay! There is a cry room open for use at the back of the sanctuary if needed. Our young families are welcome and wanted here.

Do you talk about the Bible? Scripture is read and proclaimed in a sermon by our pastor. The sermon teaches us some background on the passage, explains what it meant to the original audience, and challenges us to apply it to our personal lives and life of the church. There is time to reflect on the message. Reflection can take the form of music, silent meditation, or a communal activity like lighting a candle.

Do you have communion? On the first Sunday of each month we celebrate communion. As a guest, you are welcome and invited to participate, but you don’t have to. We practice communion by intinction which means people walk forward to receive the elements, taking a piece of bread and dipping it in the juice before eating it.

Do I have to give money? There is an offering plate at the back of the sanctuary. It is the responsibility of our members to support the ministry financially. As a visitor, you are not expected to give.

How does the service end? After the “prayers of the people” the service closes with a hymn and blessing by the pastor. Afterwards some people stick around for Fellowship hour. All are invited to fellowship hall for coffee/tea/juice and cookies.