FAQ’s — New to Church?
Coming into a new place can be a little daunting, so we have put together some of the questions you may have and which may put your mind at ease.
When do we meet?
We meet Sunday by Sunday from 10.30 to 12 noon at the latest. The service is followed by refreshments if you wish to join us.
Where do we meet?
We meet at the Velmore Centre on Falkland Road Chandler’s Ford. SO53 3GY
Is it easy to find?
The Velmore Centre is on the corner of Kent Road next to the Falkland Road shops. The building is easy to pick out because it has silver doves on the roof over the doors.
Do you have parking?
There is parking behind the Velmore Centre and also there is no restriction in parking in the Falkland Road shops carpark. There is a disabled parking bay by the rear entrance to the building.
What happens when I arrive?
Feel free to enter the building from the front entrance on Falkland Road or from the rear carpark entrance. You’ll be greeted at the door by our welcome team, who can answer any questions you may have. We meet in the large hall (Kent Hall) and you can choose to sit wherever you wish.
How do people normally dress?
There is no dress code. Just come in whatever makes you feel comfortable. We want you to feel welcome.
What is the music like?
We like to sing a mixture of old and new songs. The words are projected onto a screen at the front of the church, so no need for a hymn book or song sheet. If you don’t fancy joining in, that’s okay too, please feel free to just sit and listen. We normally have a piano and a group of musicians to accompany the singing.
What facilities are there for children?
We do not currently have regular children’s activities provided during the services but we have a dedicated team on standby who would be happy to run an activity for children during the service if required.
There are nappy changing facilities within the disabled toilet in the main corridor (by the front entrance).
Do I need to come with money for a collection?
We believe that part of our worship is giving back to God something of what He has given us. However, we do not want you to feel obliged to give in any way. Many regulars do this via their bank. We do have offering baskets at the back of the meeting hall for anyone to contribute to the work of the church if they wish to.
Will there be communion and am I welcome?
We normally celebrate communion in the service on the first and third Sundays of each month. If you are a Christian, we warmly invite you to take part. Bread and non-alcoholic wine are passed around for the congregation to partake. The wine is served in individual communion glasses. If you feel you do not want to take communion for whatever reason, that is absolutely fine just let the server pass by.
What happens at the end of the service?
At the end of the service, we offer tea, coffee and biscuits in the café area at the front of the building. We would love you to stay so we can get to know you a little bit more!
Do you have mid-week events?
Yes, there are regular daytime and evening events. These are detailed on a bulletin sheet. If you do not see one, please ask for one. These meeting include: Toddler Group, Prayer Meeting, Bible Study Meeting and a Kids’ Club.
Are there any special services?
Yes, we regularly hold special services and in particular we have meal services for our Church Anniversary, Easter, late summer and Advent. These usually start with coffee at 11am and then we hold the service and follow it with lunch. All are welcome: there is no charge.
Is there a minister or person I can speak with if I want to?
The leaders of the Church usually have some part in the service and would love to speak with you. If you are unsure just ask anyone who takes part in a service and they will direct you to a leader or appropriate person who can talk and pray with you if you wish.