Being new is daunting, and church is no exception.
Everyone here has been the new person once, so this page tells you what to expect.
Some people like to dive straight in, and others prefer to sit and watch for a while.
Either is fine.
Sundays at a glance
Where and when?
Services start at 10.30am, with tea and coffee from 10am. We're finished by 12noon, but if you need to slip out earlier, that's fine too.
Crawley Baptist Church, Crabtree Road, Crawley, RH11 7HJ. Free parking is available at the church.
What happens when I arrive?
One of our welcomers will greet you and show you where to go, where the tea and coffee is, and where the toilets are. We won't single you out, and no one will ask you to stand up or introduce yourself. We'd hate that too.
Where do I sit, and what do I wear?
Sit anywhere, and wear whatever is comfortable. Each Sunday has its own flavour, with a varied format and style of worship. We're an informal church, and a friendly bunch.
What will happen?
The service opens with 20–25 minutes of sung worship. The words are on the screens, so join in or just listen. Not all of us like to sing.
After that we share news of the church, sometimes we hear stories of someone’s faith, we spend time in prayer and listen to a talk of about 20 - 25 minutes inspired by the life and teaching of Jesus.
Once a month we share communion. We'll explain what's happening as we go, and you're welcome to take part.
We take an offering during the service. Almost all our income comes from members and regular attenders, so as a visitor, you're our guest, and no one expects you to give.
What about my children?
There are groups for children and teenagers (up to age 18) during the service.
We start off all together in the main church, and then, after about 15mins the young people go to their age-appropriate groups.You’re welcome to see where the children’s groups will be and meet the leaders.
All our leaders and helpers are DBS-checked and up to date with safeguarding training as well as being brilliant with children and young people.
Access
We have step-free access, gender-neutral accessible toilets and baby changing in the welcome area, a hearing loop, and large-print words for the songs. A quieter lounge beside the main space is available if you'd like more room. Assistance dogs are welcome.
I'm not sure what I believe
You don't need to be a member, and you don't need to have it all worked out. Bring your doubts and your questions. Making sense of the big questions of life is something we do together.
Can I watch online first?
Yes. Our Sunday services are livestreamed, so you can look in before you come.
Beyond Sunday
We have a number of Life Groups that meet throughout the week. They are informal groups, who share life together, often eat together and chat about the things we have be talking about in church. If you’reinterested, indicate on the form below and we’d be happy to help you get involved.
We also have fortnightly Mid-Week church every other Thursday from 11 – 11:45am. It is a small, informal and reflective time of worship and communion together in Room 1. Come to the Welcome Area and we’ll show you where to go. Stay Connected will have the up-to-date schedule.
Stay Connected
Stay Connected is our weekly email, which keeps us all in touch with what's happening in and around the church. We hate spam too. We'll keep your details safe, send only the good stuff, and you can unsubscribe at any time
Say hello
Tell us a little about yourself, and we'll connect you with things you might enjoy. Someone will reply within a few days.
[Form (like the life groups form?) : name, email, phone, "Is there anything you're particularly interested in, or would like us to know?"]
. [See our Privacy Statement - link.]
If you'd like to meet one of the ministers, email Clare at clare.sage@crawleybaptistchurch.org.uk or phone 01293 546177 and we'll arrange it.