What to Expect
We know that going to a church can leave you full of questions like, “What’s going to happen?” “Will I be dressed right?” “What will the music be like?” “Will there be people there like me?” We don’t want you to be unsure about what it’s like to visit Clear River Church, so here is what you will want to know:
We know that going to a church for the first time can be intimidating.
-
There is no need to dress up, so feel free to come in casual clothes. When you walk in, people will be friendly and greet you but not invade your space. Free coffee, tea, and donuts are available, and you are welcome to bring your food and drinks into the auditorium.
-
We have an excellent Kids’ Program with trusted and trained workers where your children can learn about Jesus in an age-appropriate way and in a safe and fun environment. We are open to receiving your kids 15 minutes prior to the service, and there will be a host outside of the Kids’ Space to help direct you where to go. Our Kids’ Program during the service is for birth through 5th grade. Middle and high school students are encouraged to attend the service. Visit the Kids & Youth pages for more information. Our middle school and high school groups meet directly after our service from 11:30-1:30 in our North Building.
-
We start our services with worship by singing songs to God. The worship music is current, ranging from modern hymns to contemporary worship songs. Some people respond naturally to God’s presence by raising hands, kneeling, or clapping but we just want you to worship in a manner that’s real. At Clear River Church, this means low-key, non-hyped, heartfelt responses to the Living God. We also offer the opportunity during our Sunday service for those who would like to give financially to God’s Church, but if you are visiting, there is absolutely no obligation to give.
-
After announcements, a pastor will teach from the English Standard Version of the Bible (if you don’t own a Bible, we would love to give you one when you visit). Because we believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God, we teach it as it is, rather than teaching our own opinion. We aim to teach the Bible in a way that is clear and understandable to all, regardless of church experience. We hope that you will leave challenged and encouraged to put it into practice.
-
We always give people the opportunity to receive prayer at the end of the service. At Clear River Church we have a trusted team of people who are trained to pray for others. We find it important to have an environment without the pressure to go forward to receive prayer, but with the opportunity for anyone who would like God’s help with specific things to ask Him.
-
The service lasts for about an hour and 30 minutes. Once it ends, please feel free to hang out and meet people afterwards. We would definitely like to meet you! For parents, please pick up your kids within 15 minutes of the service ending.