Come as you are. You are welcome here.
What is the service like? A simple standard format. There are bulletins on the table outside sanctuary door which give the order of worship and any relevant announcements. The bulletin is the outline of the service. In addition, the service is projected on a large screen in the front of the sanctuary.
What’s the schedule for Holy Communion? Holy Communion is celebrated each Sunday at the 8:45 a.m. service and once a month at the 10:30 a.m. on the first Sunday of the month. Holy Communion is a gift given for each of us. The UMC has an open table for communion where everyone is welcome. There is no requirement to be a member of the Sparta UMC or any church. The only requirement is a desire to live life as Jesus has shown us. We serve Communion at both services by the practice of Intinction, receiving a piece of bread, sustenance for your journey, and dip it into the cup of grape juice, that is cup of the New Covenant and the deep love of Jesus. A gluten free option is available, and we use grape juice rather than wine to make the table more open and inclusive.
What kind of music do we sing? The music ministry at Sparta is amazing. It will feed you every week. From organ or piano arrangements of sacred songs, to powerful choir offerings and anthems, as well as our bell choirs. We sing a variety of praise songs, traditional hymns, and spirituals.
What about our children? Sunday School for all ages takes place at 10:30 a.m. Children’s and youth classrooms are in the upstairs part of the building. We offer a children’s message in our 10:30 worship service and we have a toddler space in the Narthex for parents who need a place for the youngest children while still being able to see and hear the service. Your children are welcome to remain in church with you as we love the sounds of the children!
Where do we park? There is ample parking available in our parking lot with several handicapped spots in the front. Entrance to the church is through the double red doors in the front, the door at the back of the building at the end of the ramp, and the double glass doors near Demarest Hall (our fellowship hall) which provides handicap access for the upstairs of the building.
How long is the service? There are two services each Sunday. The 8:45 service is generally 35-40 minutes, and the 10:30 service is approximately one hour.
How long are the sermons? Sermons run approximately 12 to 15 minutes.
Are guests singled out? No, guests are not singled out. There are visitor cards in the pews and on the welcome table in the back of the Sanctuary. There is also a guest book by the sanctuary door for you to let us know you were here.
How is the seating? Spacious with comfy, cushy pews.
Am I expected to give money? Absolutely not. Just come and receive! A visitor’s presence is their gift to God (and to us.) As we grow in faith together, we learn to give back in gratitude.