What to Expect as Our Guest

It takes courage to come to a new church for the first time.  We hope you will feel welcome at Bethlehem, so we are providing the answers to some Frequently Asked Questions.  If you have additional questions, call (812-867-2497) or email the church office, and we will gladly try to answer any questions you have. 

Where are worship services held?

Our Saturday evening casual service is held in the Welcoming Area. Our Sunday morning traditional service is held in the Sanctuary.

Where can I park?

The church faces Oak Hill Rd., and there is parking all around the building. Our main entrance is our Welcoming Area, located off Whetstone Road. It has a covered awning for drop off, pick up, guest parking spaces, and handicapped access. As you enter any door, there are signs that will direct you to various parts of the building.

What should I wear?

We will welcome you no matter what you wear!  But, if you're looking for how you might encounter others dressed, many of our adults wear sweaters, button up shirts, slacks, skirts, and dresses.   Our youth and children dress in a wide variety of clothing including shorts, jeans, and hoodies.    

Are children welcome?

Absolutely! Children and young people are welcome in the worship service. During the Children’s Chat, the pastor or the Director of Faith and Fellowship spends a few minutes with our children talking about the day's Scripture.  

Our Sanctuary also features an activity cart located near the Welcoming Area entrance with special activities to keep busy hands engaged during the service.  We also have a cry room entrance in the back of sanctuary for parents who might need a quiet place to comfort their children while still hearing the worship service.

We have nursery facilities for children under 5 on Sundays as well. Bethlehem has a written child protection policy, available for your review.

You can always ask an usher for help locating any of these resources.

Is the church accessible for those with limited mobility?

Yes. The entire church is handicap accessible, and there is elevator access from each entrance.  There are power-assist doors at the Welcoming Area entrance and the lower entrance near the west parking lot. 

Large print programs are available for those with visual impairment.

What happens in worship?

At a typical service, we sing songs or hymns together, we hear special music, Scripture, and a sermon, and we spend time in prayer together.  Once a month, we also share in the Lord's Supper/Communion.  On Sundays, we also have a special time for the children called a "Children's Chat," as well as a time when we collect tithes and offerings. 

How will I know what to do in the worship service?

For Sunday service there is always a bulletin, which the ushers will offer you as you enter the sanctuary. It includes all you'll need to know to participate in the service. The pastor also offers many verbal cues.  

The Saturday night service includes the words to songs on the television monitors and sometimes also includes a bulletin to help worshippers follow along.

Do I need to make a financial offering?

No. You are our guest, and we welcome you without expectation!  

How long does church last?

Our Sunday services usually last about one hour.  Our Saturday services are usually under an hour.

When is The Lord's Supper/Communion offered, and can I take it?

We share in this meal monthly (usually the first weekend of the month) and all are welcome to participate!  The table belongs to Christ alone, so any who seek a closer relationship with God through Jesus Christ are invited to remember him through this meal.  

ANY OTHER QUESTIONS?

Just call (812-867-2497) or email the church office, and we will gladly try to answer any questions you have.