What happens when you attend church for the first time?

Question

It's been years since I've attended church. I'm 29 now, and I think the last time I was probably 14 or so. My husband and I have been talking about joining again... Does anyone question you or approach you? Is it ok to just show up at a church? Is there a dress code? I mean, I have some decent shirts for work, but no dress pants, just jeans....
I know, seemingly silly questions, but I was just wondering... Thanks.

Answer 1

It's not a silly question.

But the responses are diverse! There are some very laid back churches where shorts and flip flops are acceptable. Then some very "proper" churches where coat and tie is a must. Skirts must cover the knee.

If you walk in and all the ladies are wearing veils you've stumbled across one of the few Catholic churches still saying Latin Mass. Beautiful service. Highly recommend them.

Most churches welcome strangers. They won't look at you cross-wise if you show up ill dressed the first few times.

Some churches have "greeters" some do not.

If you are discouraged by the service, don't give up. Find another church close to you and check that out as well.

I live right across the street from a church. But the homilies are about what movie the pastor has last seen. Doesn't feed my soul. So I travel a bit to go to a better church.

When you find a church you feel called to, comfortable with, you'll want to register. Then you'll get mailings on church events. Opportunities to help out. Notices about classes. And of course, requests for tithing.

Answer 2

This is a good question and not easily answered. Every church is different. What was the norm 15 years ago is no longer the norm today. Unless you are going to an extremely conservative church, not many churches anymore have a dress code. I suggest you sit outside a few churches on a Sunday morning and see how people dress. I am from a church that used to be fairly formal with most guys wearing suits and women wearing good clothes. Now, only 1 person wears a suit, and only half or less of the women dress up.

Also, in terms of the approach, it also depends on the church. If you go to a Catholic church or Orthodox, you may not even talk to anyone at all. Most of the churches that actually believe the Bible are fairly friendly, but not pushy. You will probably be greeted when you enter, and if you need directions, someone is usually available to help.

For all the churches, you can just show up. Personally, I hope you find a church that is not just a formal, traditional church, but one where the people genuinely love Jesus, the preacher actually teaches from the Bible, and the people are friendly. Any other questions, feel free to e-mail me. [e-mail].

Answer 3

It depends on the Church. Some dress up more than others. What I would suggest, is -- alot of churches have websites now. Google the churches in your area, and check them out.

I go to a non-denominational Church. That is your best bet. Wear your jeans, t-shirt and flip-flops, and just show up. No rules, no codes, just fellowship. You will just walk through the door, and you will be greeted by someone standing close by for the purpose of greeting you. Just tell him/her this is your first time, and he/she will probably show you around.

The first time you walk through the door, you will be a little nervous. Two years ago I came back to the Lord after being away for 30 years. I decided to attend a non-denominational church just to let my neighbors leave me alone (they kept asking me).

So, I showed up in a suit. Ha! The Greeter smiled and said "you're new, aren't you?" But, it was okay.

Now, two years later, that little church is my family. I feel at home. There's so much genuine love there! I have made so many friends. I now teach womens Bible study groups, New Believers, and the church sent me on a missionary trip to India last fall.

You're making the right decision. I pray you find the home for you.

You pray, too. Ask God to find the Church for you. He will. It might be through an invitation from a neighbor, or you might just drive by one and it feels welcoming and right.

Answer 4

What has occurred to the modesty of Women attending church offerings? Do you believe it is only converted for church? Take a seem round at how humans speak, act, get dressed on a everyday groundwork. Things have converted, instances have converted and humans have converted. What wasn't applicable earlier than, is now. What used to be flawed earlier than, is not now. Church or no longer... modesty does not come into play very a lot anymore. In my opinion, if it is not suitable for church or for displaying appreciate for God... it is not suitable at any time. Do you believe the way in which humans behave must give up on the church door? Many humans do not appear to care approximately what's suitable or correct to any extent further. That's simply the way in which it's now.

Answer 5

If you don't tell anyone, no one knows if it is your first time or not (unless you go to a small church). If it is a small church, then I assume that certain people are appointed to shake your hand and say "hello" so that you won't feel lonely or get the impression that they are unfriendly.

There is usually a orientation meeting after the service for newbies if you want to go to find out more about the church.

Most churches now a days have business casual as an informal dress code, but don't think that anyone enforces that.

Just drop in. You will find that being new is no big deal.

Answer 6

Depends on the church you chose. Not all are the same. But usually you could just show up. I'm not sure I've ever been to one with a dress code, I wear jeans to mine usually. Honestly the good churches you will get approached because they usually know the "regulars" and the "new" people and they try to make you feel welcomed. You could go to a few to find one you fell comfortable with. I know of a few and feel free to email me if you wish.

Answer 7

Most (not all) churches today dress very casual. Many will ask you to fill out a visitors card. its okay to do so, but only give your first names, and no address or phone number. They like to count visitors. Some will not contact you unless you ask for it on the visitation card, other will beat you home. If there is a Calvary Chapel close by -visit them. they do not have a formal membership-if you want to go there-great, if not great. They are fairly baptistic doctrinally but not completely. Their music is young, Maranatha style. Their preaching is expository. Calvary Chapel is a good safe place to visit. No one there will bother you. They may offer you coffee and cookies before the service. Most do not take up an offering, regular attendees just drop their offerings in a box.


Edit: there are about 2500 Calvary Chapels across the USA, and a few in Europe.

Answer 8

It depends on the church. Just look in the yellow pages & try some non denominational. They don't have the extra rules that may surprise you. There are good denominational churches out there, but you should have some understanding of their extra rules by calling the denomination or the non denomination church to see if it founded on the Rock.

People wear whatever at my church (except indecent) http://www.riveroflifefellowship.com in Kent WA. Our Easter play is about our Rock foundation http://www.jesusattheriver.com/ so it is founded on the Rock, being born of God by His redeeming Grace.


I think the best to dress is what you would consider your Sunday best. Indecent would be sensual outfit.

Also, most churches do not want guests to feel obligated in tithing & offerings. Tithing/offering is dependent on what the Lord puts on the heart of the person, as they grow in Christ.

Answer 9

It depends on what church. These days most evangelical urban and suburban churches are rather casual. Jeans are normally OK.

If the people at the church you attend are using their spiritual gifts then there should be someone to greet you, and help you to feel welcome.

I would encourage you to find a good bible study as well as a church. God wants us to know His Word more than He wants us to "join a church". On that same line be attentive to what is being taught. If what is being taught in church doesn't line up with scipture find one that does.

Hope this helps. Glad that you are interested in going to church. Read and study God's Word, & fellowship with other believers.

If you have other questions feel free to email me.

Answer 10

Not a silly question at all-

Anne Rice, the writer of many dracula series also recently decided to attend church again.

You just go just as you are. It's not supposed to be a show or like a restaurant where there is a dress code.

I suggest you go to www.equip.org and read the guidelines for finding a healthy church.

Congrats and welcome back!