Below is a social story for what to expect when coming for worship. Pictures will be coming soon!
Sometimes I go to church to worship God.
Church is a special place where people gather together.
When I arrive at church, I may see people talking and smiling.
Some people might say, “Hello!” Some people may want to shake my hand.
I can say hello back, smile, shake hands or choose not to shake hands. All of these are okay.
As I enter the sanctuary, I can take a worship bag with activities to do in the pew. There is also a basket of activities I can take
When it is time to begin, I go into the worship space. I can sit in a pew or in the PRAYground.
The PRAYground is a special place in the sanctuary with quiet activities where I can move my body easier while I participate in the service.
Worship has different parts. Knowing what comes next can help me feel ready.
We start with announcements. People share important information. I can listen.
Someone will light candles and ring the bell outside the building. This reminds us that God is with us.
There will be a call to worship. This is an invitation to focus on God.
We will sing songs several times during worship. Some songs are happy and loud. Some are quiet. I can sing, listen, clap, dance or just be still.
Someone will read from the Bible. I can listen to the words.
There may be a children’s message. This is a short lesson that is easy to understand. Anyone can come forward to listen closer.
There will be a sermon. This is when the pastor talks about God and life. I can listen, draw, or quietly fidget if I need to.
People will pray together. Some people will share their joys or concerns for others to pray for. I can stand up to share, too. I can close my eyes, bow my head, or sit quietly.
There may be an offering. People give money to help the church and others. I do not have to give if I don’t want to.
Once a month, we share Communion (the Lord’s Supper). This is a special meal of bread and juice. I can participate or stay seated. Both are okay. If I come forward to participate, I will be given a piece of bread as a reminder of Jesus body. Next to the bread are small cups of juice, a reminder of the cup of hope from Jesus. I will drink the juice and put the cup in the waste basket before returning to my seat.
At the end, there is a blessing (benediction). This is a good word to send us out.
After worship, people may talk again. I can join, listen, or take a quiet break. There are snacks available after worship.
Church is a place where I belong. I can be myself. God loves me just as I am.
