Joining a New Church…
There are so many questions to be answered when joining a new church, but here at St. Matthew’s we hope to provide you with the information you need to make you feel welcome and part of the St. Matthew’s community as soon as possible!
What should I wear?
There is no dress code at St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church of Valley Forge. Some members tend toward business casual, while others arrive in jeans or a suit. All are welcome!
Will people talk to me?
Of course! We are a friendly bunch of people who love to meet other people. Someone will greet you on the way into the building, and others will say hello during the service or in the lobby afterwards where we serve coffee and refreshments.
Where can I park?
We have ample parking at the rear entrance of the church. At the front row, we reserve a few spots for visitors that you are welcome to use.
Is the church handicap accessible?
There are handicap-accessible parking spots located on the side of the building, with ramps to access the front entrance of the church. Inside, we also have an elevator to the sanctuary and fellowship hall.
What should I expect at a service?
A typical Sunday service will last about an hour. There will be piano and organ music, several hymns, a time to greet one another, an offering, bible readings, and a sermon by our pastor. On the first Sunday of the month, there will be Holy Communion as well.
What can my children do?
Children are always welcome to be present in our worship services.
“Busy bags” filled with a few quiet activities to help entertain your little ones during worship are available as you enter the sanctuary,
Children also have the option to attend Sunday School during our 9 am service or Jr. Church at 11 am.
Infants through age three are welcome and cared for in our nursery while their chosen adult attends worship. All staff and volunteers who work with children have up-to-date background checks and child abuse clearances.
For more detailed information regarding children and worship can be found at our Education Ministry page.
Will I have to give money?
No. We do collect an offering, and we welcome your gift if you feel led, but there's never an obligation to give. Visitors and guests are welcome to come to enjoy the service without the pressure of offering.
Can I take communion?
The Lord’s Supper, also referred to as Eucharist or Holy Communion, is practiced at our church on the first Sunday of each month. Our “open communion” means that all who love Christ are welcome to receive the bread and wine (we offer grape juice) that represent the body and blood of Christ (regardless of age, denomination, or church membership).
In our church, communion participants take a piece of the bread in their hands and dip the bread into the chalice of wine to receive both elements together.