New Here?
All are welcome here. Regardless of your age, gender identity, political leanings, religious background, sexual orientation or any other factor, there’s a place for you at Holy Covenant. Come visit us on Sunday and see for yourself.
Everyone at Holy Covenant once walked through the doors for the first time. We remember what it’s like to be a little nervous and unsure of what to expect. Here are answers to the most common visitor questions (if you have others, please email us at office@holycovenantumc.org).
What’s the schedule?
Sunday
- 9:30 a.m.: First service and nursery care
- 10:30 a.m.: Hospitality, in Sanctuary
- 10:30 a.m.: Family of God, intergenerational time
- 11:15 a.m.: Second service
- 7 p.m.: Evening service
Wednesday
- 7 p.m.: Prayers and Communion
- 8 p.m.: Hospitality in Gallery
What do I wear?
Whatever you like; Pastor Matt is likely donning a pair of All-Stars, so dress casual. Please note that we have no air conditioning, so summers are warm.
Where do I go when I get there?
Enter through the big red doors on Diversey. A greeter will welcome you and give you a bulletin with that week’s service information. Take a seat anywhere you like.
How many other people will be there?
Sunday at 11:15 a.m. is our largest service with around 75-100 in attendance. Sundays at 9:30 a.m. and 7 p.m., and Wednesdays at 7 p.m. are typically more intimate with 30-40 people.
What do my children do?
Children are welcome! An optional children’s area is located in the northwest corner of the sanctuary, there is a changing table in the east gallery restroom, and nursery care is available behind the Gallery from 9 until 11 am.
What is worship like?
Our services are a blend of traditional and modern styles. On any given week, you might sing a hymn you remember from childhood, pray a prayer from an ancient spiritual tradition, hear the choir perform a pop song you heard on the radio yesterday, see a dramatic performance, or even join a conga line.
Do you have communion?
Communion is shared every week at the 9:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday services, and the 7 p.m. Wednesday service. It is shared the first Sunday of the month at 11:15 a.m. All are welcome to eat at God’s table. We receive by intinction—a server will give you a piece of bread that you then will dip into a cup of grape juice. Gluten-free bread is also available.
Where are the bathrooms?
To get to the restroom, walk south through the doors on either side of the altar, head through the gallery and turn left when you get to the glass doors. Please feel free to do so at any time during service.
Do you take attendance?
During service, a notebook will be passed around—take a moment to write down your name and address so we can get to know you better, and your email address if you’d like to receive our weekly email newsletter.
I’ve been once or twice and want to get involved; how do I learn more?
Our website contains information on service opportunities, small groups and other ways to get involved. Church leaders will be happy to speak to you in person or by email about ways to connect. In addition, you are invited to join Pastor Matt for pizza every 3rd Wednesday at 8 p.m. and learn more about the mission and vision of Holy Covenant. If you are interested in membership, Matt also leads a Wayfarers Group for those wanting to commit themselves to the community in a more meaningful way. For scheduled times, email Pastor Matt.
