New Here? What to Expect
We’re glad you’re considering a visit!
Whether church is familiar to you or this will be your first time, you are welcome at Westminster.
Here are answers to common questions to help you feel comfortable and prepared.
What time should I arrive?
Sunday worship begins at 10:30 a.m. The sanctuary doors open at 9:30 a.m., so you are welcome to arrive early, find a seat, and get settled. Early arrivals may hear the choir warming up. At 10:00 a.m., a prayer circle gathers in the church entry area; newcomers are welcome to participate or simply continue preparing for worship.
Where should I enter?
The main entrance to the sanctuary is on The Alameda and includes steps. For a step-free entrance, come to the Shasta Avenue side of the building, where a ramp leads to a wide accessible door. If you are unsure where to go, please ask a greeter or usher—we will be happy to help.
Where can I park?
A large church parking lot can be entered from either Shasta Avenue or Hanchett Avenue. Street parking is also available around the church; please follow posted parking signs and restrictions. The church is located at 1100 Shasta Ave., at the corner of Shasta Avenue and The Alameda.
What should I wear?
Come in whatever clothing helps you feel comfortable. Westminster is generally casual, and on any Sunday you may see people in shorts or skirts seated next to people in dresses or suits. There is no dress code.
What is the worship service like, and how long does it last?
Worship typically lasts about one hour and fifteen minutes. The service follows a traditional order centered on Scripture, prayer, preaching, and music. Music often includes both traditional hymns and contemporary selections, with leadership from our choir. A bulletin will guide you through the service, and you are welcome to participate at your own comfort level.
Are children welcome in worship?
Absolutely. Children are an important part of our worshiping community. An activity area is available in the sanctuary, and activity kits are offered for children who prefer to remain seated with their families. Please feel free to choose the option that works best for your child and family.
Is childcare available?
At this time, there is no staffed childcare during worship. Children are warmly invited to remain in the sanctuary with their families and use the activity area or an activity kit.
Is the building wheelchair accessible?
Yes. A step-free entrance is available on the Shasta Avenue side of the church. A ramp leads to a wide accessible door. If you would like assistance when you arrive, a greeter or usher will be glad to help you find the sanctuary and other facilities.
Are hearing-assistance devices available?
Yes. Personal hearing-assistance devices are available at the sound booth near the sanctuary entrance. The sanctuary also has a hearing loop that can send amplified sound directly to compatible hearing aids. Please ask a sound-booth volunteer or usher if you would like help with either option.
What happens after worship?
On most Sundays, everyone is invited to stay for coffee hour with snacks and beverages. It is a relaxed opportunity to meet people, ask questions, and learn more about Westminster. Several times a year, the congregation also gathers for special events such as picnics, shared meals, fundraisers, or celebrations. You are welcome to join us.
Will I be asked to identify myself or give money?
No. You will not be singled out or required to share personal information. You are welcome to introduce yourself if you wish, but there is no pressure. An offering may be received during worship, but guests are neither required nor expected to give. Your presence is a gift, and we hope you feel at home.
We look forward to welcoming you to Westminster Presbyterian Church. If you have a question when you arrive, simply ask a greeter or usher—we are glad you’re here.
Sunday worship begins at 10:30 a.m. The sanctuary doors open at 9:30 a.m., so you are welcome to arrive early, find a seat, and get settled. Early arrivals may hear the choir warming up. At 10:00 a.m., a prayer circle gathers in the church entry area; newcomers are welcome to participate or simply continue preparing for worship.
Where should I enter?
The main entrance to the sanctuary is on The Alameda and includes steps. For a step-free entrance, come to the Shasta Avenue side of the building, where a ramp leads to a wide accessible door. If you are unsure where to go, please ask a greeter or usher—we will be happy to help.
Where can I park?
A large church parking lot can be entered from either Shasta Avenue or Hanchett Avenue. Street parking is also available around the church; please follow posted parking signs and restrictions. The church is located at 1100 Shasta Ave., at the corner of Shasta Avenue and The Alameda.
What should I wear?
Come in whatever clothing helps you feel comfortable. Westminster is generally casual, and on any Sunday you may see people in shorts or skirts seated next to people in dresses or suits. There is no dress code.
What is the worship service like, and how long does it last?
Worship typically lasts about one hour and fifteen minutes. The service follows a traditional order centered on Scripture, prayer, preaching, and music. Music often includes both traditional hymns and contemporary selections, with leadership from our choir. A bulletin will guide you through the service, and you are welcome to participate at your own comfort level.
Are children welcome in worship?
Absolutely. Children are an important part of our worshiping community. An activity area is available in the sanctuary, and activity kits are offered for children who prefer to remain seated with their families. Please feel free to choose the option that works best for your child and family.
Is childcare available?
At this time, there is no staffed childcare during worship. Children are warmly invited to remain in the sanctuary with their families and use the activity area or an activity kit.
Is the building wheelchair accessible?
Yes. A step-free entrance is available on the Shasta Avenue side of the church. A ramp leads to a wide accessible door. If you would like assistance when you arrive, a greeter or usher will be glad to help you find the sanctuary and other facilities.
Are hearing-assistance devices available?
Yes. Personal hearing-assistance devices are available at the sound booth near the sanctuary entrance. The sanctuary also has a hearing loop that can send amplified sound directly to compatible hearing aids. Please ask a sound-booth volunteer or usher if you would like help with either option.
What happens after worship?
On most Sundays, everyone is invited to stay for coffee hour with snacks and beverages. It is a relaxed opportunity to meet people, ask questions, and learn more about Westminster. Several times a year, the congregation also gathers for special events such as picnics, shared meals, fundraisers, or celebrations. You are welcome to join us.
Will I be asked to identify myself or give money?
No. You will not be singled out or required to share personal information. You are welcome to introduce yourself if you wish, but there is no pressure. An offering may be received during worship, but guests are neither required nor expected to give. Your presence is a gift, and we hope you feel at home.
We look forward to welcoming you to Westminster Presbyterian Church. If you have a question when you arrive, simply ask a greeter or usher—we are glad you’re here.
