We know that first-time visits to any church raise many questions and concerns. Here’s a quick look at some frequently asked questions that will hopefully give you a better idea of what to expect when you come visit us at Berea. If you don’t see an answer to your question here or on any of the specific ministry pages, then please feel free to contact us by any of the links on this site. We would be delighted to assist you in preparation for your visit to BBC.
When do I need to arrive?
We encourage all our visitors to arrive in time for us to be able to welcome you to our service. The pastor especially enjoys meeting visitors prior to the service and personally thank them for choosing to worship with us.
Is the church handicap accessible?
Yes. There is reserved parking directly in front of the auditorium. The auditorium can easily accommodate those needing seating for wheelchairs. Our facility was designed so that our main auditorium, Multi-purpose Room, Sunday School rooms and restrooms may be accessed without navigating stairs.
Where do I go?
Greeters are located at the main entrance to the building and are available to direct you to the auditorium for worship, to a classroom for Sunday School or to any specific ministry meeting area.
Where do my children go?
Just inside the entrance are greeters stationed throughout the morning to help your child get to their classroom. There are well staffed children’s classes and nurseries for both the Sunday School and Worship service times. If you prefer to keep your children with you the first time, feel free to do so. On Sunday and Wednesday evenings the children above nursery age stay with the parents.
What do I need to bring?
Since we are seeking to share with you, dynamic Biblical truths, a Bible will help you follow along in both the Sunday School and the Worship service. If you don’t have a Bible, or you happen to forget yours at home, we can easily provide you with a Bible from the church.
What does a service look like?
Our Sunday morning worship service begins with inspirational music to prepare our hearts and minds for the worship service to follow … then our pastor brings us a message from the Word of God!
How are visitors recognized?
You honor us with your presence and our pastor usually recognizes our visitors from the pulpit but does not ask you to stand or speak. The last thing we would do is single you out or put you on the spot. We ask visitors to fill out a Guest Information Card and simply drop it in the offering plate so that we can have a record of your visit. If you have not completed it or if the service, you choose to attend, is not a Sunday morning give it to the pastor at the end of the service. We want you to have a wonderful experience at Berea and we strive to create a friendly and comfortable environment to make you feel right at home.
What about giving?
We receive a public offering on Sunday mornings and evenings as part of our worship experience. You are our guest and we do not want you to feel any obligation, at all, to contribute to that offering. Should you choose to become part of our family we encourage all to be part of God’s divine plan in the giving of tithes and offerings.
Do I have to dress up to attend your worship service?
No! Dressing up is not a requirement to worship with us at Berea. Some do wear their “Sunday best” but you’re also likely to see someone in slacks and a casual shirt, or even jeans. We believe the most important part about Sunday morning is showing up, ready to worship God.
Does BBC have Adult Sunday School?
Yes! We have two classes available. They are in a group, Bible study format.
What do you offer for children on Sunday morning?
Children are a special part of our congregation and we value them as full participants in the life of our church. We offer Sunday School classes (preschool through the 12th grade). Nursery is available for children ages 3 years and under, while the rest are with their parents in the worship service.
Who attends BBC?
We have quite a mixture of people at Berea. Our congregation truly spans the ages, from newborns to folks in their 80s. You’ll find just about every type of person here – married, single, divorced, widowed – professionals, workers, retired. But even more important than the kind of people who go here is the kind of people who are welcome here – everyone!
Who do I talk to if I want to know more?
Call our church office at (828) 632-9146 or email us at pastor@bbc-hiddenite.org.